It's time for that anticipated transition of college life away from home. What can you do to make this move easy and what kinds of items might be practical for dorm life or a shared apartment?
Many college students leave their room at home pretty well stocked for when they come back on breaks. So having a new room and starting a new phase in your life could be a good time to change styles. That may mean getting a new bed set and a cool lamp or posters. There will also be treasured items from home that you'll want to bring with you, like maybe a favorite chair or blanket.
Here are some other items that may help to make your dorm life more comfortable. If possible, coordinate with your new roommate to see what he/she is bringing with them, and remember that space is usually limited. Note - Check with your school first about whether any or all of these items are allowed:
• Microwave
• Mini-fridge
• Toaster oven
• Blender Hot Pot
• Garbage can
• Dinnerware set
• Flatware
• Storage containers
• Closet organizer
• Laundry basket
• Iron or steamer
• Bath towels
• Bathrobe
• Shower caddy
• Flashlight
• Batteries
• Phone with answering machine
• Picture frames
• Door mirror
• Stereo
Once you've gotten all your things together, it's time to move. Click here for packing tips. Most students drive to their new school with everything in the trunk or pulled in a trailer. But if the distances are too far, or you have too much stuff for one carload, your only other option is to ship things. This can get expensive, so pack with weight and safety in mind. You may want to purchase items, like the ones listed above, once you get to your destination instead. If you're shipping items ahead of you and catching a plane, make sure to have enough clean clothes, toiletries, etc. to last for a few days incase of delays or complications.
You may also want to consider getting renters insurance to cover any loss or theft while you're in the dorm.
If you're going to college in another city, be sure to get a FREE City Report with valuable information on where you'll be living. And check out our Crime Lab for statistics on where you'll be living.
College is probably your first step into the real world, so be prepared and enjoy it!
http://www.homefair.com/Articles/Moving/movingtocollege.asp
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Important Packing Tips When Moving
The undertaking of packing all your treasured memorabilia and necessities can be made easier by following these few simple techniques:
Use the proper packing materials. It will payoff in the long run! Sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing peanuts can all be purchased at local moving or shipping companies. Wardrobe boxes and other specialty boxes can be found there too. Sturdy boxes can also be retrieved from wholesale companies, at no charge, after a shipment. Other great types of reasonably priced padding for your boxes include wadded up newspaper, old pillows and blankets.
The following is a list of tools and materials to make your packing go more smoothly:
•Razor knife and/or Scissors
•Note pad
•Dark, water resistant marker
•Boxes of all sizes
•Packing tape
•Bubble wrap
•Peanuts
Pack one room at a time labeling each box appropriately (on top and side) with a description of its contents and which room the box belongs in. Also label boxes containing breakable or sentimental items with Fragile. Keep a detailed list of what items are packed in each box to make unpacking easier.
Empty all drawers of breakable or spillable items. To keep from unnecessary damage, it’s a good idea to put all furniture knobs, feet, screws, etc. in one container that you can keep with you so the parts won't get lost.
Do not pack flammable goods or heat sensitive items like candles, records, audio and video tapes, computer disks, propane tanks, aerosol cans, oil based paints, and certain cleaning fluids.
Wrap items individually and always place a layer of crushed paper in the bottom of the carton for cushioning. Fill empty spaces with additional crushed paper.
Make sure cartons are firmly packed with heavier items on bottom and lighter ones on top.
If you'll be putting some boxes in storage, make sure to pack according to the seasons during which your things will be in storage and mark the boxes accordingly.
Put heavy items in small boxes so that they're easier to carry.
When packing the truck, make sure the items you'll need first are loaded in last (i.e. kids toys, kitchen items, telephone and radio) to make access easier.
Use common sense when loading your truck by keeping in mind the size, sturdiness, and weight of your boxes.
Plan ahead for what you'll need the first day after your move. Packing a separate bag with your toiletries, a change of clothes, etc. will avoid unnecessary scrambling or a run to the local store.
If possible, move on a weekday when banks, utilities, and government offices are open.
http://www.homefair.com/Articles/Packing/howtopackforyourmove.asp
Use the proper packing materials. It will payoff in the long run! Sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing peanuts can all be purchased at local moving or shipping companies. Wardrobe boxes and other specialty boxes can be found there too. Sturdy boxes can also be retrieved from wholesale companies, at no charge, after a shipment. Other great types of reasonably priced padding for your boxes include wadded up newspaper, old pillows and blankets.
The following is a list of tools and materials to make your packing go more smoothly:
•Razor knife and/or Scissors
•Note pad
•Dark, water resistant marker
•Boxes of all sizes
•Packing tape
•Bubble wrap
•Peanuts
Pack one room at a time labeling each box appropriately (on top and side) with a description of its contents and which room the box belongs in. Also label boxes containing breakable or sentimental items with Fragile. Keep a detailed list of what items are packed in each box to make unpacking easier.
Empty all drawers of breakable or spillable items. To keep from unnecessary damage, it’s a good idea to put all furniture knobs, feet, screws, etc. in one container that you can keep with you so the parts won't get lost.
Do not pack flammable goods or heat sensitive items like candles, records, audio and video tapes, computer disks, propane tanks, aerosol cans, oil based paints, and certain cleaning fluids.
Wrap items individually and always place a layer of crushed paper in the bottom of the carton for cushioning. Fill empty spaces with additional crushed paper.
Make sure cartons are firmly packed with heavier items on bottom and lighter ones on top.
If you'll be putting some boxes in storage, make sure to pack according to the seasons during which your things will be in storage and mark the boxes accordingly.
Put heavy items in small boxes so that they're easier to carry.
When packing the truck, make sure the items you'll need first are loaded in last (i.e. kids toys, kitchen items, telephone and radio) to make access easier.
Use common sense when loading your truck by keeping in mind the size, sturdiness, and weight of your boxes.
Plan ahead for what you'll need the first day after your move. Packing a separate bag with your toiletries, a change of clothes, etc. will avoid unnecessary scrambling or a run to the local store.
If possible, move on a weekday when banks, utilities, and government offices are open.
http://www.homefair.com/Articles/Packing/howtopackforyourmove.asp
Storing Household Goods and Possessions
Storage can be used for many different reasons. If you're trying to sell your home you may want to free closets and rooms of extra clutter so that the place shows better. Maybe you have too much furniture for your new home; the kids have moved out but you can't part with all their childhood memorabilia; you want to store items for different seasons; you have stacks of documents that you need to keep but don't want them to take up living space.
No matter what the reason, finding a storage unit is made easy here with our direct link to self-storage companies located in your area. Within a few minutes you'll know what size storage is available, how much it will cost and determine which is best for you.
Some additional things to check when locating a facility include: access hours, safety from water and heat damage, free of bugs, secure, adequate room for parking, distance from car/truck to unit.
Once you've located a storage facility it's important to plan how best to place your items. The following is a list of tips to make your storage experience hassle free.
Create aisles with box labels facing out.
Don't stack boxes too high so that getting what you need becomes dangerous or overly time consuming.
Make sure that the secure lock on your storage is sturdy.
Get a contact name at the storage facility. The storage manager may also be helpful in giving you instructions on how to unload your belongings.
Read your agreement for termination and payment regulations.
If you're using a professional mover and having some items dropped off to your storage directly, make sure these boxes are clearly marked to avoid confusion.
If you use a professional storage facility (where your things are packed tightly in a crate and loaded in a warehouse) remember that they hold a maximum of 1100 pounds and often have an access charge.
http://www.homefair.com/Articles/Packing/storingyourpossessions.asp
No matter what the reason, finding a storage unit is made easy here with our direct link to self-storage companies located in your area. Within a few minutes you'll know what size storage is available, how much it will cost and determine which is best for you.
Some additional things to check when locating a facility include: access hours, safety from water and heat damage, free of bugs, secure, adequate room for parking, distance from car/truck to unit.
Once you've located a storage facility it's important to plan how best to place your items. The following is a list of tips to make your storage experience hassle free.
Create aisles with box labels facing out.
Don't stack boxes too high so that getting what you need becomes dangerous or overly time consuming.
Make sure that the secure lock on your storage is sturdy.
Get a contact name at the storage facility. The storage manager may also be helpful in giving you instructions on how to unload your belongings.
Read your agreement for termination and payment regulations.
If you're using a professional mover and having some items dropped off to your storage directly, make sure these boxes are clearly marked to avoid confusion.
If you use a professional storage facility (where your things are packed tightly in a crate and loaded in a warehouse) remember that they hold a maximum of 1100 pounds and often have an access charge.
http://www.homefair.com/Articles/Packing/storingyourpossessions.asp
Move Postponed
The big move is only 4 weeks away...uh, wait...It's now 9 weeks away!
Having a delay in your move can certainly complicate matters. Maybe the construction of your home isn't complete, the previous owner had a family emergency and can't vacate the home as scheduled or there is a delay in the start of a new job. No matter the reason, it's time to regroup. And if you've been preparing for moving day, at least you're ahead of the game! Click here to use our Relocation Wizard for a customized moving timeline.
Now what can you do with those extra few weeks (or months)? And how are you suppose to live out of semi-packed boxes for the time being? Here are a few ideas on how to get through this setback and make lemonade with those lemons.
•First, notify your landlord or apartment complex of the extension and make sure you can stay there until the new move date.
•Reschedule the move with your vanline or truck rental company.
•Postpone any utilities hookups you'd planned.
•If you've ordered furniture, blinds or other items directly from a manufacturer, let them know about your postponement and schedule a new delivery date.
•If your change of address has already gone through, make sure you can get mail at that address.
•Check to be sure you've changed your insurance. For example, extending renters insurance and postponing the start of your homeowners insurance.
•Start shopping! Take advantage of sales that come up to buy things you might need in the new house - like ceiling fans, shower curtains, etc. This will also help to spread out expenses.
•If you're moving out of state, spend some extra time with the people you'll be leaving behind. Click here for ideas on how to stay in touch with them after you leave.
•If you're moving out of state, do some things that up until now you wish you'd had time for! Maybe it's visiting the local museum or a certain restaurant.
•Take the time to have a garage sale and make some money off the things you no longer need.
•Pack things properly while taking inventory of each item. Click here for Packing Tips.
•Learn more about the new area you're moving to by reading books or looking at maps.
•If your spouse has not found a job in the new area yet, this could be a good time to start searching and get interviews lined up. Click here to read an article on Trailing Spouse.
By having this extra time before you move you'll have the chance to get things done leisurely and efficiently! But what can you do if you're forced to leave your current residence as scheduled, even when your next residence isn't ready? There are a few options. If staying with family or friends is not one of them, consider putting your things in storage and staying in temporary housing.
Moving is a series of tasks, so when completing one is delayed it can be frustrating. But be patient and realize that everything should eventually work out.
http://www.homefair.com/Articles/Moving/postponedmove.asp
Having a delay in your move can certainly complicate matters. Maybe the construction of your home isn't complete, the previous owner had a family emergency and can't vacate the home as scheduled or there is a delay in the start of a new job. No matter the reason, it's time to regroup. And if you've been preparing for moving day, at least you're ahead of the game! Click here to use our Relocation Wizard for a customized moving timeline.
Now what can you do with those extra few weeks (or months)? And how are you suppose to live out of semi-packed boxes for the time being? Here are a few ideas on how to get through this setback and make lemonade with those lemons.
•First, notify your landlord or apartment complex of the extension and make sure you can stay there until the new move date.
•Reschedule the move with your vanline or truck rental company.
•Postpone any utilities hookups you'd planned.
•If you've ordered furniture, blinds or other items directly from a manufacturer, let them know about your postponement and schedule a new delivery date.
•If your change of address has already gone through, make sure you can get mail at that address.
•Check to be sure you've changed your insurance. For example, extending renters insurance and postponing the start of your homeowners insurance.
•Start shopping! Take advantage of sales that come up to buy things you might need in the new house - like ceiling fans, shower curtains, etc. This will also help to spread out expenses.
•If you're moving out of state, spend some extra time with the people you'll be leaving behind. Click here for ideas on how to stay in touch with them after you leave.
•If you're moving out of state, do some things that up until now you wish you'd had time for! Maybe it's visiting the local museum or a certain restaurant.
•Take the time to have a garage sale and make some money off the things you no longer need.
•Pack things properly while taking inventory of each item. Click here for Packing Tips.
•Learn more about the new area you're moving to by reading books or looking at maps.
•If your spouse has not found a job in the new area yet, this could be a good time to start searching and get interviews lined up. Click here to read an article on Trailing Spouse.
By having this extra time before you move you'll have the chance to get things done leisurely and efficiently! But what can you do if you're forced to leave your current residence as scheduled, even when your next residence isn't ready? There are a few options. If staying with family or friends is not one of them, consider putting your things in storage and staying in temporary housing.
Moving is a series of tasks, so when completing one is delayed it can be frustrating. But be patient and realize that everything should eventually work out.
http://www.homefair.com/Articles/Moving/postponedmove.asp
The Cost of Moving or Relocating
Most full service moving companies will provide you with a Moving estimate based on your "List of items", that will also appear on the "Moving estimate" as "provided by customer". The "List of items" is a list of all furniture's, appliances and boxes that has to be moved and will be provided to the movers by you, over the phone or online, if you want your moving quote to be as accurate as possible, you should make sure you provide movers with every single item you have to move, you will also have to estimate a number of boxes, again if you want no surprises when you get the bill for your move, it is highly recommended to over estimate, remember that any item that will not appear on the "List of items" will be charged extra by your movers.
2. Most moving companies will include "Basic packing" on the "Moving estimate", "Basic packing" means that the movers will protect you furniture's with blankets, all other packing materials and services that will be used during the move process, will usually be charged extra, your moving estimator can include "Full packing services" in your moving services quote, that will usually include all packing materials and services, if you want to save money on your move.
3. In most cases your "moving estimate" will include "Basic insurance" or "Liability insurance", this insurance means that for any lost or damage of your furniture, you will be covered for $0.60 per Lb, per item, it means that if you TV is lost or crashed, and it weighs about 40 LB'S or less you will get about $24.00 from the Insurance company, it is highly recommended to get moving insurance quote from an external moving insurance company.
4. Delivery time frame in your "Moving estimate"- make sure you read the "Moving estimate" and also make sure you read the contract before you sign it in the day of the move, most contracts states that the "Delivery time frame" may take up to 60 business days, remember the contract you sign on the day of the move is the last document you signed with your movers, and it may be different than what the "Moving estimate" states, so it is highly recommended to take your time to read the new contract before you sign it.
5. It is always good to make sure the movers you deal with are certified and licensed and insured.
http://open-site.org/Home/Moving_and_Relocating/
2. Most moving companies will include "Basic packing" on the "Moving estimate", "Basic packing" means that the movers will protect you furniture's with blankets, all other packing materials and services that will be used during the move process, will usually be charged extra, your moving estimator can include "Full packing services" in your moving services quote, that will usually include all packing materials and services, if you want to save money on your move.
3. In most cases your "moving estimate" will include "Basic insurance" or "Liability insurance", this insurance means that for any lost or damage of your furniture, you will be covered for $0.60 per Lb, per item, it means that if you TV is lost or crashed, and it weighs about 40 LB'S or less you will get about $24.00 from the Insurance company, it is highly recommended to get moving insurance quote from an external moving insurance company.
4. Delivery time frame in your "Moving estimate"- make sure you read the "Moving estimate" and also make sure you read the contract before you sign it in the day of the move, most contracts states that the "Delivery time frame" may take up to 60 business days, remember the contract you sign on the day of the move is the last document you signed with your movers, and it may be different than what the "Moving estimate" states, so it is highly recommended to take your time to read the new contract before you sign it.
5. It is always good to make sure the movers you deal with are certified and licensed and insured.
http://open-site.org/Home/Moving_and_Relocating/
Monday, March 12, 2007
Top 10 Mistakes in Moving or Relocating
Moving is difficult enough when things go smoothly. Moving can be a nightmare when things go wrong. Fortunately, you have the opportunity to learn from others' mistakes, and avoid repeating them. Here are a few tips to make your moving experience a little easier.
1. Canceling your existing lease too soon.
In a perfect world, all real estate transactions close on time. In the world we live in, transactions are often delayed a week or more. Suppose you asked your landlord to terminate your lease the day your purchase transaction was scheduled to close. A day or two before your scheduled closing date, you discover your transaction is delayed a week. In a perfect world, no one is inconvenienced and your landlord is willing to work with you. More likely, however, your landlord is inconvenienced and angry. Will you be thrown out? Will you have to find interim housing for a week or more? The eviction process takes a little time, so the Sheriff won't immediately remove you, but more importantly, this type of stress-producing episode can be avoided. How? Terminate your lease one week after your real estate transaction is scheduled to close. That way, if there is a delay in closing your transaction, you have some leeway. This approach might cost a little more, then again, it might not.
2. Not researching what money can buy in your new city.
Don't assume to know anything about factors such as salary, cost of living, taxes, rents or home values at a potential, new location. Be sure to read Relocation Planning: Avoiding Unnecessary Stress.
3. Not researching the demographics, neighborhoods and schools
Before you buy, spend some time online and offline researching demographics, neighborhoods and schools. Also, contact the local chamber of commerce and your Realtor for more information.
4. Not setting up cost effective interim housing between destinations. When you first move to your new city, you may need to set up temporary housing arrangements until you can close and move into a new home. This may take from a few days to a few months. If you need interim housing for a few days, perhaps staying in a hotel the simplest solution. However, if you need housing for more than a month, you may want to consider corporate housing or an apartment with a short-term lease.
5. Not getting your loan pre-approved before you move.
Once you start the moving process, it may be difficult to locate documents that are required by your lender/broker--bank statements, pay stubs, etc. Also, if you are pre-approved you will have more negotiating power when you make an offer to buy a home.
6. Not having options if you cannot sell your home.
You need to be prepared in the event you can't sell your existing home before you buy your new home. In this event, you might consider getting a bridge loan on your existing home, or using a home equity loan on your home to pull cash out. Check with your loan officer to discuss a backup loan program in the event your home doesn't sell. Also, consider renting your home if you can't sell it.
7. Not using local, licensed professionals.
Every area is different. In some areas you have to be concerned about earthquakes, other areas about floods, and yet other areas about termites. It is very important to get good local appraisers, Realtors® and inspectors to advise you about things to watch out for. Before you buy a home, have it inspected thoroughly by a professional inspector, who is a member of the ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors). Make sure that your inspector is bonded, licensed and insured.
8. Not using the right moving company.
Moving companies have a wide variety of costs and service levels. Some companies give you a fixed bid, while others leave the final costs open-ended. Make sure that your moving company can guarantee pickup and delivery dates. Also, make sure that the moving company has insurance to cover broken or damaged items.
9. Not understanding your childrens' concerns.
Many children are very reluctant to move. They may be concerned about making new friends and losing current friends. Spend some time acquainting your children with the new neighborhood. If possible, have them meet their new teachers and other children in their new school even before they move. Finally, try not to move in the middle of a school year.
10. Not reading your employer's relocation policies.
Employers have different policies for reimbursing employees' relocation expenses. Read your employer's relocation policies carefully. If you are not clear about which expenses are reimbursed, check with the human resource department of your new employer. Also, take time to understand the IRS policies for expense reimbursement. Money that your employer pays towards your relocation expenses may be taxable. The IRS allows you to deduct certain expenses. Finally, keep good records and copies of all your receipts associated with your move.
http://open-site.org/Home/Moving_and_Relocating/
1. Canceling your existing lease too soon.
In a perfect world, all real estate transactions close on time. In the world we live in, transactions are often delayed a week or more. Suppose you asked your landlord to terminate your lease the day your purchase transaction was scheduled to close. A day or two before your scheduled closing date, you discover your transaction is delayed a week. In a perfect world, no one is inconvenienced and your landlord is willing to work with you. More likely, however, your landlord is inconvenienced and angry. Will you be thrown out? Will you have to find interim housing for a week or more? The eviction process takes a little time, so the Sheriff won't immediately remove you, but more importantly, this type of stress-producing episode can be avoided. How? Terminate your lease one week after your real estate transaction is scheduled to close. That way, if there is a delay in closing your transaction, you have some leeway. This approach might cost a little more, then again, it might not.
2. Not researching what money can buy in your new city.
Don't assume to know anything about factors such as salary, cost of living, taxes, rents or home values at a potential, new location. Be sure to read Relocation Planning: Avoiding Unnecessary Stress.
3. Not researching the demographics, neighborhoods and schools
Before you buy, spend some time online and offline researching demographics, neighborhoods and schools. Also, contact the local chamber of commerce and your Realtor for more information.
4. Not setting up cost effective interim housing between destinations. When you first move to your new city, you may need to set up temporary housing arrangements until you can close and move into a new home. This may take from a few days to a few months. If you need interim housing for a few days, perhaps staying in a hotel the simplest solution. However, if you need housing for more than a month, you may want to consider corporate housing or an apartment with a short-term lease.
5. Not getting your loan pre-approved before you move.
Once you start the moving process, it may be difficult to locate documents that are required by your lender/broker--bank statements, pay stubs, etc. Also, if you are pre-approved you will have more negotiating power when you make an offer to buy a home.
6. Not having options if you cannot sell your home.
You need to be prepared in the event you can't sell your existing home before you buy your new home. In this event, you might consider getting a bridge loan on your existing home, or using a home equity loan on your home to pull cash out. Check with your loan officer to discuss a backup loan program in the event your home doesn't sell. Also, consider renting your home if you can't sell it.
7. Not using local, licensed professionals.
Every area is different. In some areas you have to be concerned about earthquakes, other areas about floods, and yet other areas about termites. It is very important to get good local appraisers, Realtors® and inspectors to advise you about things to watch out for. Before you buy a home, have it inspected thoroughly by a professional inspector, who is a member of the ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors). Make sure that your inspector is bonded, licensed and insured.
8. Not using the right moving company.
Moving companies have a wide variety of costs and service levels. Some companies give you a fixed bid, while others leave the final costs open-ended. Make sure that your moving company can guarantee pickup and delivery dates. Also, make sure that the moving company has insurance to cover broken or damaged items.
9. Not understanding your childrens' concerns.
Many children are very reluctant to move. They may be concerned about making new friends and losing current friends. Spend some time acquainting your children with the new neighborhood. If possible, have them meet their new teachers and other children in their new school even before they move. Finally, try not to move in the middle of a school year.
10. Not reading your employer's relocation policies.
Employers have different policies for reimbursing employees' relocation expenses. Read your employer's relocation policies carefully. If you are not clear about which expenses are reimbursed, check with the human resource department of your new employer. Also, take time to understand the IRS policies for expense reimbursement. Money that your employer pays towards your relocation expenses may be taxable. The IRS allows you to deduct certain expenses. Finally, keep good records and copies of all your receipts associated with your move.
http://open-site.org/Home/Moving_and_Relocating/
When and How to move or relocate
The moving or relocating of a household of one or more people to a different home is common in urban areas among those who rent their home, but less common among those that live in rural areas or own their own home.
However, one major factor that stops people from moving home is the emotional importance a home has in a person’s life. Other factors include the expense of real estate agents and relocating companies.
Family and financial issues can often force people to move or relocate home.
We will discuss different steps involved in Moving or Relocating.
Step 1:
First Step in Relocating is to Find a Buyer for your present Property. This article discussed how to sell your present home.
Find out the maximum potential value of your property. It's pointless spending $5000 on improving a property if it will only add $2000 to the sale price. Look at local property papers and visit estate agents to find out the asking price for similar properties in your locality.
If a property is sold while the market is buoyant, it's much more likely to attract the asking price. Check the best time to sell it!
Repairs and maintenance
- Finish off small DIY jobs - touch up chipped woodwork and replace washers on dripping taps.
- Before a buyer steps into a house, they will have already formed an impression. A well-kept garden, pathway and fence are immediately appealing.
- Water can cause major problems in unwanted places. Check your roof and guttering, replace broken tiles and repair the lead flashing. It's worth casting an eye over the drains too. A drain cleared before a blockage occurs is easier on the nose and the wallet!
- A regular lick of paint will keep a property looking good and keep deterioration at bay. A newly-painted front door with shiny brass fittings always creates a good impression. When selling, a customer will be able to spot if attempts at 'sprucing up' your property are simply quick fixes - he'll be much more impressed by ongoing maintenance.
- Cutting the lawn can be a last-minute pick-me-up. Feeding it a couple of weeks beforehand will brighten it up and make it look healthy.
- If your fitted kitchen units look tired, simply replace or paint and varnish the doors. This will be much cheaper than buying a totally new kitchen. If the units are in fairly good condition and only look dated, just replace the doorknobs, handles and taps. Another economical trick is to fit good solid worktops on to existing units.
Look and feel
- Paint walls - a pale, plain shade maximises the feeling of lightand space and enables buyers to imagine their possessions in the property. Research shows that most buyers prefer natural, earthy colours to bright, bold shades. Although there's a wide range of paint colours available, magnolia is still the top-selling colour.
- To prevent rooms looking too bland, use strong colours for accent walls or cushions and accessories.
- De-personalise your rooms by removing personal items, such as family photographs and children's drawings, which may distract potential buyers. Buyers should be looking at the property not the owner's possessions, so hide these items until the property is sold. Removing clutter also makes it easier for buyers to imagine their own belongings in a room
- Plant pots can provide colour in your garden. If you don't have the time to fill your own, you can always get some ready-made.
- Flowers and a bowl of fruit will brighten up a room and provide a pleasant smell.
- Organise rooms - a property will be more appealing if rooms have a specific purpose and this allows buyers to see the full potential of the property.
- Revitalise a bathroom with a green leafy plant and new taps, shower curtain and light pull. All these items can be picked up cheaply from DIY warehouses.
- Coloured bathroom suites are out and old-fashioned white is back in vogue. If you've got an avocado or pink bathroom, consider investing in a white suite. It will add value to your property.
- Restoring fireplaces and period features, such as ceiling roses and cornices, can add thousands of pounds to a property. If you don't have a fireplace then a striking picture can work equally well. If you decide to install a fireplace, look for an original period grate and surround in reclamation yards.
Tips
- Avoid strong food odours - don't cook food such as fish or curry before a viewing as the smell will linger. The smell of freshly-cooked food or fresh tea though is said to provide a welcoming feel to a home.
- Ask friends or family to look after any pets during viewings.
- Try and make viewers feel comfortable. Offer them a tea and ask them if they need any further information about bills or local amenities.
http://open-site.org/Home/Moving_and_Relocating/
However, one major factor that stops people from moving home is the emotional importance a home has in a person’s life. Other factors include the expense of real estate agents and relocating companies.
Family and financial issues can often force people to move or relocate home.
We will discuss different steps involved in Moving or Relocating.
Step 1:
First Step in Relocating is to Find a Buyer for your present Property. This article discussed how to sell your present home.
Find out the maximum potential value of your property. It's pointless spending $5000 on improving a property if it will only add $2000 to the sale price. Look at local property papers and visit estate agents to find out the asking price for similar properties in your locality.
If a property is sold while the market is buoyant, it's much more likely to attract the asking price. Check the best time to sell it!
Repairs and maintenance
- Finish off small DIY jobs - touch up chipped woodwork and replace washers on dripping taps.
- Before a buyer steps into a house, they will have already formed an impression. A well-kept garden, pathway and fence are immediately appealing.
- Water can cause major problems in unwanted places. Check your roof and guttering, replace broken tiles and repair the lead flashing. It's worth casting an eye over the drains too. A drain cleared before a blockage occurs is easier on the nose and the wallet!
- A regular lick of paint will keep a property looking good and keep deterioration at bay. A newly-painted front door with shiny brass fittings always creates a good impression. When selling, a customer will be able to spot if attempts at 'sprucing up' your property are simply quick fixes - he'll be much more impressed by ongoing maintenance.
- Cutting the lawn can be a last-minute pick-me-up. Feeding it a couple of weeks beforehand will brighten it up and make it look healthy.
- If your fitted kitchen units look tired, simply replace or paint and varnish the doors. This will be much cheaper than buying a totally new kitchen. If the units are in fairly good condition and only look dated, just replace the doorknobs, handles and taps. Another economical trick is to fit good solid worktops on to existing units.
Look and feel
- Paint walls - a pale, plain shade maximises the feeling of lightand space and enables buyers to imagine their possessions in the property. Research shows that most buyers prefer natural, earthy colours to bright, bold shades. Although there's a wide range of paint colours available, magnolia is still the top-selling colour.
- To prevent rooms looking too bland, use strong colours for accent walls or cushions and accessories.
- De-personalise your rooms by removing personal items, such as family photographs and children's drawings, which may distract potential buyers. Buyers should be looking at the property not the owner's possessions, so hide these items until the property is sold. Removing clutter also makes it easier for buyers to imagine their own belongings in a room
- Plant pots can provide colour in your garden. If you don't have the time to fill your own, you can always get some ready-made.
- Flowers and a bowl of fruit will brighten up a room and provide a pleasant smell.
- Organise rooms - a property will be more appealing if rooms have a specific purpose and this allows buyers to see the full potential of the property.
- Revitalise a bathroom with a green leafy plant and new taps, shower curtain and light pull. All these items can be picked up cheaply from DIY warehouses.
- Coloured bathroom suites are out and old-fashioned white is back in vogue. If you've got an avocado or pink bathroom, consider investing in a white suite. It will add value to your property.
- Restoring fireplaces and period features, such as ceiling roses and cornices, can add thousands of pounds to a property. If you don't have a fireplace then a striking picture can work equally well. If you decide to install a fireplace, look for an original period grate and surround in reclamation yards.
Tips
- Avoid strong food odours - don't cook food such as fish or curry before a viewing as the smell will linger. The smell of freshly-cooked food or fresh tea though is said to provide a welcoming feel to a home.
- Ask friends or family to look after any pets during viewings.
- Try and make viewers feel comfortable. Offer them a tea and ask them if they need any further information about bills or local amenities.
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