Archives for December 2020

Moving? Don’t Lose Sight of These Common Costs

Moving soon? It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a move (new house, new neighborhood, new Starbucks…yeah!), but don’t lose sight of common moving costs.
 
Take, for instance, hiring a moving company. Your expense will vary based on distance, labor and load, and sometimes even the destination. A 1,220-mile interstate move carting 7,400 pounds of belongings averages $5,630, according to Bankrate.com, while an in-state move toting the same weight averages $1,170.
 
Not moving into your new home as soon as you’d hoped? You could be forking over more green for storage, as well, which can ring up to $1,000 or more each month, depending on quantity. Taking up residence at a hotel or in a rental between moves can consume a major chunk of your budget, too.
 
And that quiet, tucked-away lot you paid a premium for? It could translate into more dollar signs during your move. If the moving truck can’t access your new home, you could be footing the bill for a shuttle—an extra $250 to $500, per Bankrate.com.

Timing is another, often overlooked, factor. Moving at the height of the home-buying and -selling season—typically April through October—or on weekends generally costs more than at off-peak times.
 
Thinking of moving soon—or know someone who is? Contact me today!
 
Source: Bankrate.com

Taking the Stress Out of Moving

Whether you moving to Northwest Florida or somewhere else in Florida, when it comes to moving, a little preparation goes a long way! You can save lots of precious time and energy by planning ahead and staying focused on details. Here are a few great time-saving tips that will help you stay organized and sane throughout your move.

Make a schedule: Starting 60 days before the move, create a week-to-week checklist of tasks that much be completed. Spread out your errands and to-dos so that you can move successfully and gradually without breaking your back.

Consider a moving company: Are you going to hire movers? If so, start researching or looking for recommendations for reputable movers you can trust. Figure out the cost and budget your money accordingly.

Lighten your load sooner rather than later: Start throwing away unneeded items or gift them to friends and family. The fewer things you have to move the better. Start figuring out what you can and cannot live without.

4 Landscaping Tips to Increase Your Home’s Curb Appeal

If you’re looking to increase your home’s value without breaking the bank, pay attention to its curb appeal—or the way your home looks from the street. Not sure where to start? Here are four landscaping tips from Martin John Company that will go a long way toward helping your home stand out among the competition.
   
1. Go for a Deck or Patio Refresh. Decks and patios that are in poor shape can scare away prospective buyers who can’t see past the time and energy they’ll need to devote to fixing up these areas. Make sure your deck or patio is in tip-top shape by bringing in a professional to replace any rotten planks. And take the time to re-stain or paint the surface for a fresh appearance.

2. Keep the Lawn Well Groomed. A well-maintained lawn will do wonders when it comes to making a good first impression, making it critical that you keep the lawn appropriately trimmed and watered.  

3. Incorporate Pops of Color. Add life and beauty to your home’s exterior by incorporating seasonal colors throughout the area. Whether it’s potted plants or flowers, a splash of color will create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

4. Clean Up Your Landscaping. Don’t let an overgrown landscape overshadow your home. Clean up your exterior by pruning and trimming large bushes and trees. Not only will this crate a tidy appearance, it’ll also help showcase your home’s architectural details more clearly.  https://www.risingstarrealty.com/preparing-home-sell/

Source: Martin John Company