Frequently Asked Real Estate Questions-Ep. 28

What are the Top 7 steps to manage my move?

1. Hire a moving company. Get a referral from a friend or family member of who to hire. Be sure to call them to set up the move day and time as soon as you know the day.

2. Take inventory. Make a list of all your belongings you plan to move. Use your phone and make a quick video.

3. Cut back. The less you own the less you have to move. Take this time to get rid of the possessions you have that you no longer need.

4. Get supplies. You need boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap or newspaper, markers and labels.

5. Stop services. Call utilities, cable, magazine subscriptions, etc…

6. Start services. Make preparations so that needed services, phone, cable, mail service are up and running when you move into your new home.

7. Notify. Tell family, friends, school, employer, your bank, your credit card companies etc…about your change of address.

Other quick tips:

Moving with kids is not easy. Make them a part of the moving plan. Let them plan out their new bedroom and let them help pack up their stuff.

Make color coded labels for each room in your new home. Pack and label your boxes in the rooms they are going to at your new house, not where they are coming from.

Pack an essentials box of items you will need when you first move in. Toilet paper, scissors, hand soap, dish soap, cleaning supplies, garbage bags, flashlight, band aids, snacks, cups and plates.

Use your suit cases to pack clothes you will need to wear immediately after your move.
Moving is stressful time, but the more you prepare, the less stress you will have!

Please keep me in mind if you or someone you know is planning a move soon. I would love to help!

Frequently Asked Real Estate Questions-Ep. 27

What are the top 5 things you should NOT do when selling your home?

1. Clean your home by cramming junk into closets and cabinets. Potential buyers are going to look in there! If your storage areas are full you are sending the message to the buyer that their stuff won’t fit either.

2. Assume buyers are going to take on your deferred maintenance. Fix the small things! Door bells, loose handrails, running toilets etc… Buyers want a move in ready, turn-key home! Give it to them.

3. Fill your house with air freshers. It does not work!! Buyers will think you are trying to hide something. Clean is the only smell everyone loves!

4. Assume buyers are pet lovers. Many people are not and some are allergic! Do not have your pets in the house for showings and remove all traces of them. I understand this is a pain, but it is a must to get your house sold quickly!

5. Neglect curb appeal. It is the first impression of your home and most likely the first picture buyers will see. It needs to be landscaped and clean. This will give buyers the welcoming feeling they are looking for.

Pass this on if you know someone trying to sell their house right now or thinking about it in the future. Let me know what other questions you have. I am working hard to be YOUR resource in real estate.