The post "How to Choose a Moving Company" appeared first on Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Life.
Choosing a moving company can be a challenge. It’s often difficult to know what you need and the questions to ask—and how to avoid falling victim to the schemes moving companies sometimes perpetrate on unsuspecting customers. There are a myriad of charges that come with moving a household—fees for supplies, labor, transportation, and other related items and activities. Many moving companies have unusual policies (like charging double travel time) that can be confusing or not adequately disclosed. So, how do you navigate all of this without losing precious time, money, or sanity? What’s the best way to understand exactly what your move requires and the services a moving company offers, and then choose a mover that best meets those needs? The Better Business Bureau (BBB) says that most moving company complaints stem from consumers being upset that the mover damaged items, arrived late, billed for unworked hours, or didn’t honor estimates (bait and switch). Your goal is to find a moving company that’s transparent in its offerings, does what it says it’ll do, and charges correctly when the job is done. If you can locate a company that does all of this—and hopefully goes above and beyond—you’ll find that gem that every homeowner hopes for. Moving is stressful. You don’t need to add more to your already-loaded plate by getting wrapped up with companies that provide unwanted problems instead of trustworthy service. Before you hire your next mover, take the time to read this guide on how to choose a moving company. Review the things you should look for in a mover. Go through our tips on choosing a reliable moving company and familiarize yourself with common scams to avoid.
Get Referrals
Ask friends, family, and neighbors who they’ve used to move their belongings. If you’re working with a real estate agent, get referrals for moving companies with an outstanding track record.
Ask for Quotes
Get quotes from at least three movers. Ask them if they charge by the hour or a flat rate (if a flat rate, how many hours of service do you get and what do they charge for overtime?)—and inquire about how many movers the company will assign to your job. Is there a fee for miles, gas, or travel time? What supplies does the mover provide (are there any mandatory charges for blankets, bubble wrap, moving dollies, etc.)? Do they need to see your belongings before giving a guaranteed quote? There are other price-based questions you can ask, depending on your specific scenario, but this should get you moving in the right direction.
Look for Red Flags
Most moving companies won’t charge a deposit before moving your items, so avoid those that do. A mover shouldn’t be anxious to get money from you. Movers who are vague and don’t want to answer questions should raise a huge red flag. Note the professionalism of all company representatives you talk to. Ask movers if they own or rent their van or truck (a reliable moving company will own a van or truck).
Ensure the Mover is Licensed and Insured
All licensed interstate moving companies must have a U.S. Dot number issued by The United States Department of Transportation Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). If you’re moving out of state, you can verify the company’s license through the FMCSA’s website. You can also view the company’s DOT number on the FMCSA website. Are you moving within the state? Investigate any company you’re considering by looking up its business profile through your state’s local consumer affairs agency.
Check the Better Business Bureau
Research all potential moving companies by reviewing their BBB ratings and any complaints against the providers (don’t consider any companies that don’t have a BBB profile or rating). Ideally, the company you choose should have BBB accreditation.
Inquire About Trade Association Accreditation
Go to the moving company’s website and look for an approved seal or logo that distinguishes the mover as part of a related industry trade association or organization. Good movers will probably have the American Moving and Storage Association’s ProMover logo on their website or marketing materials. You can also look up moving companies on the American Moving and Storage Association’s website to see if they’re members in good standing.
Verify the Company’s Address
The moving company you choose should have a brick-and-mortar location and the mover’s address should be listed as business—either in search engine listings or moving company directories. Don’t consider any mover with an address that points to a residential property.
More Tips for Choosing a Reliable Moving Company
Don’t stop your investigation after moving through the guidelines above. Before signing a moving contract, do the following:
- Ask if the company will take an inventory of all your items
- Get a written estimate
- Avoid companies that recently changed their business name
- Inquire about extra fees for moving to or from properties with stairs or elevators
- Ensure there are no blank spaces on your moving contract
- Be wary of guaranteed quotes unless you get them in writing
- Ask about moving insurance
How to Avoid Moving Scams
The most common moving scams that you should be aware of include:
- Bait and switch—when a moving company switches the time or day of your move at the last minute and the move ends up costing you more
- Late pickup or delivery—the mover arrives late, pushing you into a more expensive time slot (or they don’t deliver your items on time, sometimes taking longer than expected to get to your new location so they can charge you more)
- Exorbitant delivery charges and hold hostage—movers occasionally add additional costs to your total and won’t give you your items until you pay all the fees (or fight them)
Are you looking to sell or buy a new home? Let Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate® walk you through the process.
Though many view spring as the ideal time for selling and buying homes, there are compelling reasons to consider listing and purchasing properties during the winter months in New Hampshire.
For Sellers:
- Motivated Buyers: Winter buyers often have urgent needs, like job relocations, that can lead to quicker sales.
- Less Competition: Fewer homes on the market mean your home stands out more.
- Cozy Appeal: Winter in NH allows sellers to highlight the warmth and coziness of their home, making it inviting and appealing. Features like a fireplace, good insulation and efficient heating can be highlighted.
For Buyers:
- Serious Sellers: Sellers in the winter are often motivated, leading to better negotiation opportunities.
- Less Buyer Competition: Fewer active buyers means less competition, potentially giving better selection of homes without the multiple offer situations common in peak seasons.
- Winter Ready: By viewing homes in winter, buyers can gauge how well a home handles the cold — whether it’s adequately insulated, how effective the heating system is, or if there are drafts.
Buying or selling a home in New Hampshire during the winter months might seem unconventional, but it offers unique advantages that can benefit both sellers and buyers. With the right perspective and the help of a local real estate expert, winter can be an excellent time for real estate transactions in the winter wonderland that is New Hampshire!
If you’re thinking of buying, selling or renting, Deb has you covered!
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Deb ReesM: 603-454-8380deb@bhgmilestone.com |
The NAR recently put out a consumer guide to buying your first home. It breaks down the first steps and terms you should know. Check out this great resource below!
Are you looking to buy your first home? Here are some essential things that you should know!
Get Your Finances in Order
- Get preapproved for a mortgage
- Make your own home buying budget
- Maintain your credit
- Save for a down payment and closing costs
- Budget for repairs
- Speak with a lender and understand your different loan options
Find a Real Estate Agent
- Reach out to multiple offices to find the right fit for your needs
- Agents will be there to help you every step of the home buying process
Make Your Home Buying Wish List
- Include your must haves, nice to haves, and nonnegotiables
- Don't fall in love with a house - determine what home would be the best for your needs now and in the future
Don't Make Big Changes
- Finance big ticket items
- Switch jobs
- Close credit cards
"A qualified buyer’s representative can guide you through all the steps to purchase your first home, including assistance programs in your area. They’ll help you ask all the right questions, consider all your options, and point out the pros and cons of any house you are considering." (NAR.com)
Contact us for more useful tips if you are thinking of buying! For the best selling, buying, or renting experience, call "The Best Team in Town" at 603-526-4116!
Sources:
https://homebuying.realtor/content/5-essential-things-every-first-time-homebuyer-should-do
https://www.rocketmortgage.com/learn/first-time-home-buyer-tips
https://realestate.usnews.com/real-estate/articles/fast-tips-for-first-time-home-buyers
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The real estate market is ever-changing. Though the real estate transaction has not changed, it is still an intricately detailed process that needs many hands to complete. We highly encourage sellers to offer contribution to a buyer‘s agent fees, as part of this very involved transaction.
Fact: The real estate transaction is one of the most complicated and regulated consumer transactions. The average conventional buyer will need to spend at least $75,000* to purchase your home between their down payment, financing closing costs and related moving expenses. *National Association of Realtors & Mortgage Bankers Association
Fact: Homebuyers work with exceptional buyer agents, typically for long periods of time, and need to ensure their fee is paid as well. A seller that can offer a level of certainty and transparency surrounding the process and buyer representation fees will appeal to more buyers in marketing their home.
Key takeaways to consider:
- Proper representation of buyers leads to smoother transactions, reduced risk during and after closing, as well as a better overall experience for all.
- There will always be a competitive advantage to the seller that offers to participate in buyer representation fees, as it adds a level of transparency and clarity to potential buyers.
- Buyer broker fees may ultimately be negotiated as a sales concession.
Is Owning a Home a Good Investment?
The short answer is YES. According to House Logic and The BHG Milestone experts, owning a home has financial – and emotional – benefits! Consider:
- Long-term financial growth. Real estate appreciates!
- Building equity. From your downpayment to your mortgage payments (minus fees and interest), each dime adds to your home’s equity.
- Income tax advantages. The sale of your primary residence allows you (in most cases) to avoid tax on your profit ($250,000 for an individual; $500,000 for a couple).
- Additional itemized deductions. If you itemize your taxes, you can deduct property tax, some closing fees (like points), and mortgage interest!
- Fixed monthly payments. Your rent might (will) increase – but your mortgage payment is fixed.
- Improved credit score. Pay on time and reap the benefit!
- Your space – your castle. When you own your home, you can remodel and decorate any way you desire!
- Your sanctuary. Your home is your private sanctuary. It’s all yours!
#bhgmilestoneteam #bhgmilestone #bestteamintown #bhg #realtor
#buyahome #homefinancialbenefits
Photo by Alexander Grey on Unsplash
Part 2 of Our Two-Part Series:
In our April 3rd post, we gave you 5 ways to save for your home purchase down payment. Here are The Milestone Team’s second five tips to get you on the road to home ownership and your own special place in the world:
6. Make your savings work for you. Invest your down payment nest egg in a high-interest money-market or savings account. Avoid riskier investment (like stocks or crypto) so your principle is safe.
7. Start a side-hustle. Forbes recommends turning hobbies and passions into a side-business to earn additional income. You can also take a part-time job or…
8. Ask for a raise at work. The sooner you ask, the sooner you can save more for your new home.
9. Talk to a mortgage lender. Knowledge is power. Your local lender can offer steps and ideas so you can afford your dream home sooner. And…
10. Talk to your local real estate expert. Sure, you’re not buying your home today. However, you do not need to wait until you are shopping to engage your real estate agent. The Milestone Team members are experts and have the experience to help you save and shop wisely!
Don't forget for more expert advice to:
Photo by micheile henderson on Unsplash
Part 1 of Our Two-Part Series:
According to the National Association of Realtors, the most difficult step for buyers is saving for a down payment.
20% down is the market standard- although you may qualify for as little as 3.5% (FHA). It’s still a daunting challenge for many buyers to save even that 3.5% for a $300,000 purchase - which would amount to $10,500.
So, what do you do?
Here are The Milestone Team’s first five tips to get you on the road to home ownership and your own special place in the world:
- Create a vision board. Using a corkboard – or even your refrigerator! – display images of beautiful living spaces, décor you love, gardens you would want. The inspiration helps you prioritize saving for your special place versus spending impulsively.
- Get on a budget.Review and reduce your spending to maximize your monthly savings. Some ideas:
- Choose a “staycation:” Vacations can cost $2000 or more for a typical family. Check out local events, places to explore & stay, and put that extra cash towards your downpayment!
- Try a no-spend challenge. Each month, only spend on necessities and a few dollars for fun-money.
- Pay yourself first. Financial experts recommend “paying” yourself by setting aside 20% from each paycheck. Automate your savings by setting up an automatic transferwith your bank.
- Pay off debt. This seems counter-intuitive – “Shouldn’t I be saving every dollar towards my downpayment?” Every dollar that’s not costing you, yes. Paying off high-interest credit cards and auto loans not only saves you on interest each month, but also reduces your debt-to-income ratio and increases your credit score – which will help you qualify for your mortgage.
- Bank your next raise or tax refund. Yes, you really want that new flat screen television – but making the temporary sacrifice adds those extra funds to your down payment account!
Want more expert advice to save for your dream home? See our Part 2 later this month!
Top 5 Loan Killers
If you plan on getting a mortgage or have already started the loan process, you need to be extra cautious with your finances. Here are the top 5 show stoppers you should avoid.
- Purchasing large ticket items. Don’t buy a new car or even furniture until after the loan closes. New payments will impact how much money you can borrow or can even prevent you from qualifying for a loan.
- Paying late on bills. One 30-day late payment can subtract 80 to 110 points from your credit score. Many lenders require at least 12 consecutive months of on-time payments
- Shuffling money around. Lenders scrutinize all your bank statements as part of the approval process. Any unusual deposits or withdrawals will require clear documentation of what they are. A large sum of money transferred into an account right before closing could be lethal.
- Job changes. Taking on a new job can present some hurdles as lenders like stable income that will likely continue. Changing job fields or starting your own business will be a red flag.
- Getting a new credit card. Even something as simple as getting a Kohl’s credit card will impact your credit score.
Give me a call if you want to work with a Realtor who can help you avoid the common pitfalls when buying your dream home.
Contact Donna Forest: 603-526-4116; www.DonnaForest.com; Donna@DonnaForest.com
You’ll be moving in the right direction with Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate - The Milestone Team