 |
Posted By:
Tommy
12/5/2011
4:00:33 PM
|
|
Buying or selling a home is a huge undertaking, and one of the most significant financial decisions you'll make as an adult. All things considered, the Realtor you choose will have a huge impact on whether the home-buying process is a success or a disaster. Let's talk about how to make it a success.
First, it probably comes as no surprise that you'll want to find a realtor you can depend on to work on your behalf. Many times you can find good realtors through good old fashioned word-of-mouth referrals. Chances are, if they worked hard for your friends and family, they'll work hard for you. But if you don't already have someone in mind, here are some tips for choosing a realtor who will get the job done and leave you satisfied in the end:
- Make a checklist of what you're looking for in an agent. Examples of th...
Read More
|
 |
Posted By:
Becky
9/21/2011
10:39 AM
|
|
Moving to a new home in a new city certainly has the potential to create anxiety in kids. And that's completely understandable considering they're leaving behind familiar faces and places. The good news is, there are things you can do to help them through the transition. If they're old enough, letting them lend a hand can help them feel like an important part of the process. In fact, encouraging them to get involved might even help them feel less like they're being forced to move away and more like they're part of the decision. Consider including your kids in the following moving activities:
Planning – Why not take them house-hunting with you? You can let them check out potential neighborhoods and schools and give their opinion on whether the house is a winner or a loser in their ...
Read More
|
 |
Posted By:
Jeremy
9/19/2011
3:22:16 PM
|
|
Chances are you're reading this before you tackle the grueling chore of moving to a new home. Good for you! Many people make the mistake of not planning ahead when moving in their massive trailer of belongings. These movers end up with a new house full of utter chaos— gnashing of teeth— unable to decipher bathroom from kitchen items. You definitely don't want to end up in the middle of that kind of confusion. Use our quick list of tips below to avoid landing yourself into the middle of a moving-in nightmare.
- The most important thing you can do when preparing your moving boxes is label them. A great way to do this is purchase a stack of post-it notes that really stick out (maybe lime green or hot pink) and use a Sharpie marker to indicate what's in the box (i.e. "KITCHEN – DRAWERS" or "...
Read More
|
 |
Posted By:
Donna
9/14/2011
2:35:16 PM
|
|
I'm one of those people who thinks that if you fail to take advantage of your right to vote, you shouldn't complain about things your vote may have been able to change. I won't get on that soapbox though (it's ok to breathe a sigh of relief here). If you're one of the many U.S. citizens who exercises your right to vote, and your long-distance move is taking you out of your voting district, you'll want to make sure to add "change my voter registration information" to your moving checklist. You cannot be registered to vote in more than one place at a time.
No worries though. It's not complicated. In fact, the United States Election Assistance Commission makes it e...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Becky
9/12/2011
3:23:25 PM
|
|
Important Tips for Moving When You're Pregnant
First, I would like to begin by mentioning that I'm nowhere near replacing the advice of your doctor. If you're pregnant, planning a move and have questions about safety, care, etc., I'm sure it goes without saying that you should first talk with your physician.
Now, what we can help with is offering some tips that were designed to make moving when you're pregnant less stressful on your psyche and your body (which is likely your goal whether you're pregnant or not). I've experienced two pregnancies— and moved during the last one. Not my idea of fun, but still necessary. While it was just a local move, believe me when I say it was tough. Yes, I was tired. Yes, I was cranky and moody. But we (meaning my husband) survived it. And since it was just ...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Tommy
9/9/2011
09:45 AM
|
|
Moving to a new (to you) home often means repairs— some necessary, some just cosmetic— but repairs none-the-less. And if they're beyond your ability (which is absolutely the case in my household), you can usually find a good contractor to do the work. And the keyword here is "good". With just a quick search, you'll find plenty of people who've been deceived by bad contractors who looked good online. It's usually a case where they seem likeable and promise great things, but fail to follow through, even though you've already paid. No one wants to find themselves in that situation – especially after the expense of moving long distance to a new home.
Things to look for in a good contractor
Though it would be nice to be abl...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Becky
9/2/2011
1:11:23 PM
|
|
Find the Best Neighborhoods with Neighborhood Scout
The thing about moving cross country to a city you're not familiar with is just that…you're not familiar with it. I don't know about you, but the thought of moving to a new neighborhood without any idea of what to expect when you get there makes me a little nervous. Of course ideally you would be able to check you're your surroundings before you take the plunge. But, I talk to customers daily who are moving long distance and haven't found a place to live yet. In fact, it's more common that you might think.
Rather than moving blindly, there are some great online tools to help make your decision easier…one is called ...
Read More
|
 |
Posted By:
Michelle
8/24/2011
3:18:34 PM
|
|
Discovering Smart Kitchen Organization Ideas
Ok, we all know one of the hardest rooms in the house to keep clutter free and organized is the kitchen, and that's probably because it is one of the most utilized rooms in a home. We prepare food there, we eat the food there, we certainly make plenty of messes there, and we simply just hang out there. Do you ever feel like it would just be easier to throw a stick of dynamite at it and start from scratch? Well, let's start from scratch (minus the dynamite) and get the clutter free kitchen of our dreams by looking at some helpful kitchen organization ideas.
7 Simple Tips for Creating the Ideal Kitchen Space
- Begin by locating wasted spaces in cabinets and on the countertops, then clean out the storage areas or pantry and keep ONLY what you use/need. If you hav...
Read More
|
 |
Posted By:
Mark
8/22/2011
2:41:57 PM
|
|
What to Move, What to Move, So Much Stuff, I Don't Know What to Do!
So it's time. You have to start making your final decisions on what's making the move and what's not. What worldly possessions get to go on the big adventure to your new home? How do you decide what gets to go and what gets left behind? You may have heard that you pay less when you move less. If so, you heard right. So if you're looking for ways to save money moving…keep reading, I've got some great things for you to consider.
Reasons you might pare down what you're moving:
- Downsizing
- Moving to a Different Climate
- Good Excuse to Get Rid of a Few Things
- Short on Cash
- Completely Different Style of Home
Here are some questions to ask yourself to help decide what to trim down.
Indoor Furniture...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Becky
8/17/2011
3:45:31 PM
|
|
You can expect moving day to be hectic— boxes everywhere, movers going in and out carrying large boxes and furniture, moving trucks, ramps, etc. Not an ideal event for kids. So if yours is a family with young children, we recommend making sure to have a plan for them for the day. The last thing you'll want is to worry about their safety in the midst of the other concerns of the day. Here are a few tips for keeping your kids safe on moving day.
1. Spend the day away. If your kids are young and you have friends or family willing to lend a hand, letting them spend a fun day away is ideal. I have a six-year-old and a three-year-old who like to have their mommy and daddy's full attention— regardless of what's going on aroun...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Donna
8/15/2011
09:37 AM
|
|
Figuring out the best time of year to move can be tricky. There's a lot to consider. Will the weather permit safe travel? Do you have kids in school? Do you have time to plan ahead? Do you have a lease that will expire at a certain time or a new job to start? Everyone's circumstances are different. Here are some things to keep in mind as you plan:
Scheduling around school
If you have kids, there's no question their school schedule has to be taken into consideration. Unless it's absolutely necessary, it's good to avoid taking them out in the middle of the semester. Try to give them enough time to say good-bye to their friends and family, and give them time to get settled into their new home before the new school year starts. It can be difficult to adjust to a new house, new city and new school all at once. That's why summe...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Mark
8/10/2011
09:22 AM
|
|
I have a friend who recently posted a picture of his electric bill on Twitter. It was $591.82. Ouch. Granted, Fort Smith, AR (where MoveBuilder's home office and his home are located) has broken a record for the most consecutive days over 100 degrees, and spent at least one day as the hottest location in the country. It's hot, and it takes a lot of work for cooling systems to keep up with the heat. But it's likely that he's not the only one getting slammed with outrageously high electric bills this summer. If you're moving into a new home in a new part of the country, this may be something never had to contend with before. So, let's talk about things HVAC experts say you can do to reduce the cost of cooling your home.
Replace your current cooling system. Of course,...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Becky
8/3/2011
4:15:33 PM
|
|
Find Ways to Help Children Adjust to Their New Home
For many adults, a move is an exciting adventure…a new opportunity. For many children (especially older ones) it's a difficult change. Whether you're in the process of moving, or your family recently moved, I think you'll find that taking extra time to help your kids adjust to their new home can make a big difference.
If your children are toddlers or younger, the biggest adjustment is likely just getting used to the feel of a new home. To make the transition as easy as possible, my advice is to pack up their room in the old home last, and set it all back up in their new home first. Keeping things consistent and maintaining a regular schedule as much as possible will help them adjust more quickly.
School-age child...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Mark
7/25/2011
1:19:56 PM
|
|
Tips for Beating the Heat on Moving Day
MoveBuilder's home office is located in Arkansas, where we've broken a record with temperatures reaching 100 degrees + for more than 18 consecutive days. It's hot here folks. And this isn't the only place it's hot. All across the country people are trying to find ways to beat the heat. Even still, summer is the most popular time for people to move. It's just a more convenient time to move since schools typically aren't in session. I know for a fact that today there are people packing up houses and loading stuff into moving trucks all across the country. And they're hot!
So that brings us to this post. If you happen to be one of the folks living in parts of the country where it's sweltering, and you're in the middle of a move, you've go...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Michelle
7/18/2011
2:28:23 PM
|
|
Discover Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast
Whether you're moving because of a corporate relocation, or another pressing reason, it's common to want to sell your home quickly and get top dollar for it. If that's the boat you're in, since it's a buyers' market, you'll want to make every effort to capture the buyer's interest right away – and that starts with staging your home from the inside out.
Though we're moving experts, and not home selling experts, we've found plenty of real estate experts who know how to sell a home. Take a look at these home staging tips and get on track to sell your home fast for the best possible price.
- Disassociate yourself from your home. Take the em...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Becky
7/11/2011
08:46 AM
|
|
Helpful Tips for Moving With Children
Moving, whether for a corporate relocation, a cross-country move, or a military relocation, can be tough for anyone, especially children. If you're finding yourself faced with having to deliver this extremely sensitive news to your young brood, keep reading to discover tips for moving with children. I actually talked to my 10 year-old to get her take on this topic, and she said the most important thing to her would be to know in advance, which leads to moving first tip:
- Be upfront with your children and let them be in the know! Your kids want...
Read More
|
|
|
Eco Friendly Cleaning Tips
If you're moving to a new home, there's definitely going to be cleaning involved— more than likely both when you move out and when you move in. With all of the talk about the dangers of toxins emitted through many household cleaners to our health, people are beginning to search out eco-friendly cleaners. They're safer for pets, better for allergies, biodegradable, and simply provide cleaner air.
Think about this…if you have to wear protective gloves to protect your skin from the harsh chemicals in a cleaner; it's safe to assume those same chemicals are harsh on everything (including your lungs). Try living in a less toxic environment and studies show your overall health will improve.
Take a look at these eco-friendly cleaning tips that are designed to help ...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Tommy
6/27/2011
2:03:03 PM
|
|
Let's face it, the economy is making things a little tough, and it doesn't help that we're paying much more for fuel than we would like. In fact, if you're moving cross-country, you've no doubt considered what it's going to cost to fuel your personal vehicle (and a rental truck, if you've considered that route) for the long trip across the country. And the result probably fails to make you smile.
While using MoveBuilder means you don't have to worry about fueling the moving truck, you'll likely spend money fueling your personal vehicle unless you're planning to ship your vehicle and fly. Thankfully there are simple things you can do to lessen the amount you spend on fuel, and in effect, lower the total cost of your mov...
Read More
|
 |
Posted By:
Meredith
6/22/2011
2:28:43 PM
|
|
You'll need all of the extra energy you can get on moving day. So what are the best foods to eat to give you that energy boost AND keep it going?
Basically, you'll want a balance between protein and carbohydrates. Carbs give you energy, but the protein helps your body conserve that energy, releasing it more slowly over time so that you don't get a boost and then crash.
While energy bars sound like a good idea, some may not give you the lasting energy you need. Energy bars with a balanced blend of protein and carbs are what you need, but look for ones that are low in calories— usually between 100-150— and those that are low in fat. If the bar is really high in only one area (protein or carbs), the energy won't last, so look for a balance between the two.
Obviously when you're packing and moving you aren't going to have a lot of groceries in ...
Read More
|
 |
Posted By:
Karen
6/20/2011
2:39:35 PM
|
|
Moving to a new home can be a hassle, and when you're moving a cat, it can add additional stress— for you and your cat. Long-distance moving can be an even bigger challenge, so how do you get ready for the big move with you and your feline friend(s)?
Test Drive Before You Move
If you've ever had to take your cat to the vet, you're probably familiar with how they react to a car ride. But if you are a new pet owner, it may be worth a test drive to see how your cat handles travel. In fact, even a short drive should give you an idea about what kind of behavior to expect. Chances are the reaction you see on a short trip is what you'll get for the long-haul.
Pet Carriers & Crates
While it may be tempting to let your cat roam free in...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Becky
6/13/2011
2:23:02 PM
|
|
Setting up healthcare in your new city is one of the most important things you'll do after moving. You'll need to find a primary care doctor, dentist, and eye doctor, along with any specialists that may be necessary for your specific situation. Naturally, healthcare providers prefer to know your medical history, so that they can give you the best care possible.
I still remember the first time I changed to all new doctors after moving for college. I was pretty nervous about having to get all of my records, but thankfully my healthcare providers' offices were incredibly helpful in walking me through the process.
How do you request a medical record transfer?
For your protection, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) prevents access to your medical records, unless the ...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Karen
6/10/2011
3:26:31 PM
|
|
Important Things to Look for in a New Neighborhood
If you've ever made a move to a new neighborhood, or if you're planning a move, you probably know the importance of research— whether it's local, cross-country or out of the country— there's something to say for knowing what to expect when you get there. In this post, I'll give some advice on important things to look for in a new neighborhood…after all, where you live often dictates your way of life.
First of all, once you've pinpointed the neighborhood you want to move to, take time to research its surroundings. If you have children living at home, check out the schools. Are they close by? Do they have a solid academic reputation? Next, find out if there ...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Jeremy
5/23/2011
1:39:12 PM
|
|
Helpful Car Shipping Tips
If you're moving cross-country and have more vehicles than drivers, you might be one of the few folks in need of an auto shipping service. First, let me point out that while MoveBuilder is great at moving your household goods, we're not your best option for transporting vehicles. But, we gladly recommend a couple of companies to help with this type of service:
Auto and Boat Relocation Service
Dependable Auto Shippers
While neither of these services are related to MoveBuilder, we feel comfortable referring them based on their reputation in the industry and feedback from customers who have used them before.
...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Mark
4/25/2011
2:23:42 PM
|
|
Tips for an Affordable Small Move
It might seem easier to find affordable ways to do a small move than a large one, right? Not necessarily. You may discover that it's more difficult to find ways to ship a small number of items. And by "small", I'm talking about moves that are less than a studio-sized apartment— normally "just a few boxes".
The issue with these moves is often related to minimum weight or space requirements— where the minimum exceeds the small shipment's size.
So let's say you have a 200 lb. shipment, but the movers have a 500 lb. minimum. Regardless of how much weight/space you use, you pay the 500 lb. minimum. Or let's say you stack your boxes up in the corner of your garage and know that you're only going to need two linear feet in the moving truck. If the m...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Michelle
4/18/2011
3:45:39 PM
|
|
How to Transfer Utilities When Moving
Ah, the little details of moving. Little details that have the potential to take you by BIG surprise.
And one of those little things happens to be transferring utilities when you're moving — water, electricity, gas, cable/satellite, phone, internet, trash service etc. They all have to be shut off at your old home and turned on at your new home.
You'll find that almost every company has its own specific guidelines for lead-times to disconnect/connect utilities. My best advice is to contact the company's customer service department at least three weeks prior to your move to verify the procedure and schedule shut offs/connections.
Based on experience, we also suggest that you schedule the days for shut-off and turn-on the day after scheduled move-out and the day before scheduled move-in. ...
Read More
|
|
|
How to Save Money FOR Moving
So, typically you'll see posts about saving money ON your move. While this is really important when you're moving on a budget, it's not what we're talking about today…this time we're addressing how to save money FOR your move.
If you've faced the facts that moving long-distance has the potential to put at least a small dent in your bank account, you can probably see the value in saving a little money before the big day. If you haven't read it already, check out the "How much does it cost to move across country" post. It'll help you estimate how much to pu...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Becky
3/25/2011
2:28:10 PM
|
|
Tax Deductible Moving Expenses
If you moved in 2010, you might be able to claim some of your moving expenses on your taxes.
According to Topic 455 at IRS.gov, these "reasonable" moving expenses may be tax deductible if your move was the result of a job change or business location change or because you started work or a new business in a new location. In order to qualify, your move normally has to pass these two tests (there are exceptions in the case of death, disability, involuntary separation, military etc.):
- The Distance Test. Your new place of employment must be at least 50 miles further from your old home than your previous job location was from your old home. If you were not previously employed, your new job must be located at least 50 miles from your old home.
- The Time ...
Read More
|
 |
Posted By:
Leslie
3/22/2011
2:46:42 PM
|
|
Moving into a new apartment can cause a wide array of emotions. You may feel excited about moving into a new place, stressed about getting everything moved and overwhelmed by having to coordinate the connection and disconnection of your utilities.
Thinking ahead can help prevent additional stress on moving day. Here are some moving tips you might want to consider to make the transition to your new apartment as smooth as possible.
- Renter's insurance Call your insurance agent ahead of time to get a quote on renters insurance. This type of policy is relatively inexpensive and will cover most of your belongings inside the apartment from certain types of loss. If you use the same company for your auto insurance be sure to ask about a multi-line policy di...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Meredith
2/21/2011
2:32:17 PM
|
|
How to make money at your garage sale
What attracts people to garage sales? Furniture, lawn equipment, children's clothing and great deals!
The tips below will help you price these items to sell.
Advertise the garage sale
Make sure you list the big-ticket, big-interest items, such as furniture and lawn equipment to draw people in. If you're serious about getting rid of everything, set a time for it to all go to half-price and share the time in the ad so customers can plan on coming back.
Sell clothing
Most adults won't pay much for clothing unless they can try it on. We recommend not letting customers in your house, even to try on clothing, so a better idea is to set a general price, such as $2-$3 for shirts and $3-$4 for jeans.
Since people are much more likely to buy c...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Meredith
2/14/2011
2:37:53 PM
|
|
Make your garage sale a success
One great way to save money when you're moving (and even make a little extra!) is to have a garage sale. As you start packing, you'll probably find things that you didn¡¯t even remember you had. Most moving companies charge based on either the weight of your items or the amount of space they take up, so why pay to move things you don't use anymore?
First steps for setting up
First thing: figure out what you're going to sell. Separate these items out as you're packing the rest of your things. Keep a list of these items and refer to it during and after the sale to keep track of what you've sold.
Many cities require a permit for a garage sale, so ask about this as soon as possible. Once your date is ...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Becky
2/8/2011
08:52 AM
|
|
In my first few homes, I cleaned, but still missed a few things that weren't obvious to do. Here are some tips for how to make sure everything is as clean as possible before you set everything up the way you want it.
Walls and ceilings
I never thought much about cleaning my walls and ceiling until I noticed cobwebs in my first apartment after moving in. Taking the time to clean the hidden corners and to wipe down air vents will get rid of dust that can wreak havoc on your allergies later.
Floors
Carpet is cleanest when steam cleaned, but a good vacuuming will get it close enough. While vacuuming, you might find dust and lint gathered up around the baseboards. The easiest way to get rid of this is to place paint tape beneath the baseboards and pull it up. A pencil is just the right width to help get t...
Read More
|
 |
Posted By:
Rachel
2/4/2011
11:30 AM
|
|
Protecting your floors while moving
If your floors get a lot of traffic on a "normal" day, you can count on at least tripling the traffic on moving day. Whether you're hiring movers to do the packing and loading, or you're doing it yourself, it's a great idea to protect your floors before you start moving things out (or in). If you're moving out, the new owners/renters will appreciate it. If you're moving in, you'll be extra glad you took a little extra time to protect your floors— it may keep you from having to hire professional carpet cleaners.
Scratches, footprints, and scuffs, oh my!
I've got hardwoods in my house, and they're wonderful. But, if you've lived with them for long, you know how easily they're...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Mark
1/31/2011
4:11:05 PM
|
|
Getting a Post Office Box in your New City
While some cities still offer on-site mail boxes, many large cities and small communities require that you rent a post office box in order to get your mail. You'll find that they're relatively inexpensive and fairly easy to rent.
Here are the steps required for getting a post office box in your new city:
- Choose the post office box location that works best for you— close to work or close to home— whatever makes more sense. You can find the closest post office here: http://usps.whitepages.com/post_office
- Decide what size post office box you need— will you mainly be getting bills, letters etc., or will you receive larger packages on a regular basis...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Rachel
1/24/2011
2:37:10 PM
|
|
Moving in the winter
Moving in the winter has its perks, traditionally lower prices (for off-peak season), less perspiration on moving day, lower gas prices (usually). While all of this sounds nice (especially the lower prices part), moving in the winter also produces a need for extra precautions.
Plan ahead for road conditions
Most states have highway and road conditions maps and updates available online. These maps are great tools for planning your route so you avoid areas with traditionally bad winter weather— if you can avoid it, you'll want to stay away from mountain passes.
As an example, I live in Arkansas so during the winter months I use the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department website to plan for road trips. You can check out...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Karen
1/21/2011
1:34:08 PM
|
|
Moving with live plants
First, let's start with a reminder that live plants are included on the MoveBuilder "do-not-ship" list. That means if you're moving with plants, you'll need to either take them in your personal vehicle or have an alternative for transporting them.
And, there are several reasons why:
- The USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) requires permits to import some plants into the U.S. and across state borders.
- Some states have laws against transporting plants across state lines (Florida and California are prime examples)— check with your state's agriculture department as well as the agriculture departments of any states you'll be traveling through.
- Most plants require air, water and sunlight— none of which ...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Rachel
1/3/2011
3:36:09 PM
|
|
Part II— Finding a gym in your new city
(See How to Find a Gym in a New City, Part I)
According to the American Heart Association, "Physical inactivity is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke and is linked to cardiovascular mortality." That means, if you're not already, it's time to start exercising. And what a great way to start life in your new city.
Tips for finding a great gym in a new city
Find a gym with a good "personality"
What types of people go to the gym you're considering? More important, do you have a preference? Some people prefer all women or men, a mixture of genders, a mixture of fitness levels, all body builders etc. Think...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Karen
12/28/2010
1:07:42 PM
|
|
New Home Cleaning Checklist
I've moved several times in the past few years, and one thing I've learned is that it's best to clean before unpacking. In my first apartment, I decided to unpack everything first, and had to spend the next few weeks trying to move everything around and clean around things. Eventually, I ran out of motivation and never quite got everything exactly the way I wanted it.
The next time I moved, I took the time to clean as much as I could before my items arrived. This definitely made a huge difference and let me just deal with upkeep, rather than deep cleaning around all of my furniture.
Gather your supplies
Having the right supplies will make cleaning go a lot quicker. Here's what I recommend:
- All purpose cleaner
- Baking soda
- Broom
- Di...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Becky
12/23/2010
2:38:31 PM
|
|
Would you guess that California is the most populous state in the U.S.? If your answer is yes, according to the 2010 census, you're right. The state's population is 37,253,956 with the next closest being Texas at 25,145,581. And while it's true that 1.5 million people moved out of California between the 2000 and 2010 census, 1.8 million people moved into the state.
And chances are, since you're reading a post called "How to move to California", you'll be one of the people included in the count of those who move to Caifornia between 2010 and 2020.
So, how about a little advice on how to move to California…and save money while you're at it.
First, to keep from overspending unnecessarily, before you begin getting moving estimates, we recommend that you determine how much ...
Read More
|
|
|
Oh, the holidays…such a fun time, with food, family, and time off from work. Except for all of the folks who have to move during the holidays (can we get a collective sigh?)
It's a good time to move when you consider price…but not when you consider the weather (unless you're moving to Florida), or the sad fact that you may have to miss out on family holiday traditions.
But, think about it this way…it's also a great time to try some new things and create new traditions. I have a feeling that it will be a holiday season you won't likely forget.
Extend your visit with family
One of the best parts about not driving a rental truck is that you get more time between packing and unpacking to do other things…like visiting friends and family. If you're moving during the holidays, you will probably arrive at the new location a little sooner th...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Rachel
12/17/2010
1:08:52 PM
|
|
This is probably a bittersweet time in your life. Moving may mean you'll get to explore a new area, start new family traditions, make new friends and may even put you closer to family and old friends. But, at the same time, you may be leaving behind what's comfortable and familiar— dear friends, family, co-workers, classmates etc.
So how do you let people know you're moving? Let me just start by recommending that you tell those closest to you before you post the news on Facebook. Hurt feelings are sure to surface if you do it the other way around.
Here are some good ideas for letting folks know you're moving:
- Have your friends and family over for dinner or a cookout and make the announcement a celebration.
- Go out for a one-on-one coffee to break the news.
- If you're feeling especially creative, make a scrapbo...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Rachel
11/29/2010
1:12:00 PM
|
|
Now that the holidays are upon us, it might be time to start thinking about what to do when January 1 rolls around…you know…to work off a little of the candy, turkey and dressing, buttery mashed potatoes and pies we've indulged in over the past three months. So, here are some great tips for finding a gym in your new city!
First of all, studies show that people join gyms for these reasons:
- Lose weight
- Build muscle
- Tone muscle
- Stress relief
- Improve overall health
- Train for an event
Why you're joining has a lot to do with your gym selection, so be sure to think about your reasons. Before you select one, do your research to make sure you get everything you want out of the membership. Keep in mind that many gyms require a contract…you don't want to be stuck in something for an entire year that doesn't fu...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Becky
11/23/2010
10:45 AM
|
|
Lower moving expenses with a little preparation
One of the biggest contributors to costly moving expenses is lack of planning. The good news is there's something you can do about it. These tips should work great for helping you get ready for the big day. The result? Less unexpected moving expenses and less stress (and it doesn't hurt that you'll likely save a little money in the process.)
Get organized
Create a "moving folder" with pockets and dividers. Place your moving checklist, FAQ's, moving estimates, receipts (for tax purposes) and moving company correspondence inside this folder for easy access. Keeping everything in one place is ideal for avoiding forgetting or misplacing the important stuff— which can lead to additional expenses.
Create a moving budget
Base yo...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Mark
11/17/2010
4:11:00 PM
|
|
Moving utilities with you
There's more to moving than just packing boxes. Don't forget that you also have to disconnect utilities and cancel services at your former home and connect utilities at your new home.
We compiled a reminder list of all of the utilities you'll want to take care of…so you don't miss anything.
- Electricity
- Water
- Gas
- Cable
- Satellite
- Home Security
- Internet
- Phone
You don't want to wait until the last minute to handle disconnecting and connecting utilities. It's important to plan ahead or you may end up moving in the dark with no heat/air or water when you get to your new home (been there, done that).
Perfect Timing for Disconnecting Utilities
We suggest calling your utility provider ahead of t...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Rachel
11/12/2010
08:04 AM
|
|
Pricing to sell at your garage sale
We've discussed before that garage sales are great ways to downsize before the moving company pulls up in your drive— make extra cash and don't pay to move items you don't need— it's a win, win. Deciding to have a garage sale…easy. Deciding how to price the items to sell…not so easy.
Here are some great tips for pricing to sell at your garage sale:
Price items according to their worth
Not their sentimental value. This is tough, but you'll sell more if you set your prices according to their worth to others, not their value to you. If you have any items you're uncertain about, ask friends what they would be willing to pay.
Be honest about the condition
For example, "Riding lawn mower: $50, n...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Rachel
10/26/2010
4:05:59 PM
|
|
Moving can be a tough experience for pets; especially if they aren't accustomed to traveling. The best suggestion: keep as close to your normal routine as possible. Even if you're in an unfamiliar place, taking your pet for a walk and feeding him at the same time as normal will make him more comfortable.
Moving with pets: The options
Traditional movers are not allowed to transport pets, so your options are to carry them in your own vehicle, ship them by air, or use professional pet moving services. Sending them via a professional pet moving service may be the most convenient way to get them there, but you'll normally find these services relatively expensive.
Regardless how you move with your pet, it's important to have a pet carrier large enough for him to comfortably ...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Mark
10/15/2010
10:54 AM
|
|
I'm not sure about you, but one of the things I love the most in my house is my mattress. In fact, I love all things that make for a fabulous night's sleep. That means I spent a lot of time in mattress stores, laying on one after another, until I finally found the mattress of my dreams (pun intended). Something tells me I'm not the only one who feels this way.
So, if you're moving a mattress that you love, I'm sure you'll want to make certain it's protected so it's as comfy at your new house as it was at your old.
Here are a couple of tips for moving a mattress and protecting it in the process:
- We recommend always placing it in a mattress bag specially designed for mattresses and box springs. This will protect it from getting soiled if it brushes across the floor, walls, or other objects.
- If your m...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Karen
10/11/2010
4:26:46 PM
|
|
If you're moving, and attempting to narrow down your list of best neighborhoods, you've no doubt read the saying "you're not just buying a house, you're buying a neighborhood."
The neighborhood where you choose to purchase (or rent) will make an impact on your quality of life. Before you sign a purchase contract or a rental agreement that's tough to get out of, do a little homework and make sure you're choosing the best neighborhood for your needs.
Here are some great tips for ending up in a great neighborhood:
- Figure out what you're looking for in a neighborhood – make a list of your "requirements" and your "wish list" (those things that you MUST have and those that you'd like to have). For example: Do you need a large, fenced yard for children or pets? Do you need a garage? Do you n...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Karen
10/6/2010
08:17 AM
|
|
If you're moving long distance, it's likely that at least one nights hotel stay is in your future. If it's a really long move…three or four. And, if you're trying to keep your moving cost to a minimum, I'm guessing you want to find affordable hotel rooms along the way. Whether you plan for stops and make hotel reservations ahead of time, or book them as you go, it's always a good idea to compare rates!
So, here are some great tips, from folks in the travel industry, for finding the best hotel rates.
- Look at travel discounters like Travelocity and Expedia. Although there's a consensus that you may not find the best prices here, you will find reviews that help make the decision easier....
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Karen
9/27/2010
1:15:23 PM
|
|
You probably already know that the less stuff you move, the less you pay for your move. So, it's always a good idea to filter through everything and get rid of the stuff you don't need. It's also a great idea to have a moving sale and sell the stuff you don't need— then put the money towards your moving cost.
If that's your plan, great. It's lots of work, but worth it (I think).
Before you hit the carport with your little yellow price stickers and the cash box— or fanny pack (because that's what's recommended), beware because garage sale scams are a possibility. We did a little research, and these are some common garage sale scams we found:
The "distraction" scam:
Thieves will sometimes use a child or an adult accomplice to distract you while they p...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Mark
9/16/2010
3:22:12 PM
|
|
If you're moving a TV, we recommend that you have it professionally packed and crated to provide the best protection. Crating adds additional charges to your moving estimate, but experts think that the extra protection is worth it. If you have a TV over 40" and choose not to crate it, we'll ask that you sign a waiver.
Moving a crated TV 
Some customers choose to have their TV packed but not crated. If this is the option you choose, we recommend packing the TV in its original box and packaging. Since the original box and packaging were designed to protect the TV for shipping to the store, it should provide adequate protection if it is re-packed correctly.
Moving a TV packed in original packaging ...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Mark
8/31/2010
11:33 AM
|
|
Tips for moving a refrigerator
Similar to moving a washer, you'll also need to prepare your refrigerator for moving before the MoveBuilder movers arrive to load. So, no less than 24 hours before the crew arrives, you'll want to unplug the refrigerator and/or freezer, disconnect the water line, remove all of the items, clean out the refrigerator and defrost it. The movers are not able to disconnect the water lines, so if you're unsure how to do it, your owners' manual should give good directions.
Why is it so important to prepare your refrigerator at least 24 hours in advance of your move? Several reasons, really…but the main reason is to protect your goods— not just the refrigerator, but everything. A wet re...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Mark
8/18/2010
4:34:40 PM
|
|
Moving a washer the right way
Before the MoveBuilder movers arrive to pack and load, make sure your washer is prepared to move - whether you're moving a front load washer or a top load washer.
So how do you do that?
It's easy. Just disconnect it, drain the water and install washer locks. If you need help (really, we recommend doing this whether you think you need help or not), the owners' manual will give instructions on how to properly prepare your specific washer for moving (properly, being the most important word). The last thing you want is a damaged washing machine…or wet household goods…because you weren't prepared for moving the washer properly.
*Tip— If you don't have a copy of the owners' manual, you can usually find it online by searching for the brand, model and ...
Read More
|
|
|
Posted By:
Karen
8/13/2010
4:04:55 PM
|
|
There are a handful of cities across the U.S. where move-out and move-in days are a little more difficult due to parking restrictions. As you can probably guess, Chicago is one of those locations.
Since parking spaces are sparse— specifically for large moving trucks— a "full shuttle" is usually required. This involves "shuttling" all of the customer's belongings from one location to another. With MoveBuilder, that means shuttling the household goods from an ABF service center to the customer's home/apartment or vice versa.
Here's what happens if you're moving to a Chicago location where moving trailers are not allowed:
Once your shipment arrives at the nearest ABF service center, MoveBuilder movers will remove your b...
Read More
|
Back To Blog Home | Visit MoveBuilder
|
|
