Things to consider before hiring movers

Whether you're moving down the street or across the country, spending a few minutes preparing for your move will save you time and money. Here are a few things to consider before hiring the movers:

• Throw away as much as you can before you start packing. If you take junk, you'll be throwing it away or finding places to store it on the other side.
• Start collecting packing materials as soon as you know you're moving. Save your newspapers, and order boxes and packing tape online from discount stores.
• Sign up for your new utility accounts. Don't expect the seller (or landlord) to set up your new electrical, cable, gas, water or telephone accounts for you. Start this process at least three weeks before the move.
• Reserve the elevators. If you live in or are moving to a condominium or co-op, you'll probably have to reserve elevators on the day you hope to move. Since most buildings only allow one or two moves a day (they'll only allot one elevator to the move), you'll need to call weeks ahead of time or risk losing your preferred moving day.
• Discontinue delivery services at your existing home. If you get anything delivered (newspapers, milk, dry cleaning, laundry or videos), be sure to change the delivery address on the account. And, don't order anything that is scheduled to be delivered to your old address within a week of your move. You don't want it to turn up after you're already gone.
• Change-of-address cards or e-mail. If you're mailing change-of-address cards, try to do this at least two weeks before you move. If you're e-mailing everyone, send these out a week or two ahead of time, and then again announcing that you're now living in your new home (with the address and telephone numbers. Don't forget to stop by your local post office to fill out your change-of-address card at least two weeks before your move. (You may have to do it again later.)

For more information and to view recent property listings, please visit ByOwnerMLS.com Moving Center - http://www.byownermls.com/moving.php

Moving Tip - Day After Your Move

• Locate your local post office, police, fire stations and hospitals as well as gas stations near your home.
• Get familiar with your neighborhood shopping areas. You may need house wares, tools or other items for your new home unexpectedly.
• Call the department of sanitation in your new home to find out which day the trash is collected and what type of recycling programs are available in your community.
• Get new service providers such as a bank, pharmacist, cleaner, cable television etc.
• Contact your local DMV if you moved to a different state to exchange your driver’s license.
• Provide your new doctor and dentist with your medical history.
• Transfer insurance policies to your new agent. You may also wish to make a detailed list of your belongings, their value, and you coverage.
• Get information on schools, libraries, community activities and emergency calling service from your local Chamber of Commerce.

For more information and to view recent property listings, please visit www.byownermls.com.

Sellers Checklist - Your Home's Exterior

• The condition of your home's exterior is most important when it comes to buyer appeal. Touch up trim paint on doors, window frames, fascia, etc.
• If your lawn shows no signs of life, a little fertilizer and some water will do wonders for its color. Mow and edge the lawn frequently until the home is sold.
• Overgrown shrubbery should be cut back to show as much of the exterior as possible.
• A low-cost investment in seasonal flowers or ground cover will add a personal touch.
• Replace missing shutters, gutters, and downspouts and remove any debris.
• Inspect the roof for necessary repairs and any visible broken shingles or tiles.
• Cracks in the driveway and sidewalks can be easily repaired with ready-mix cement. For excessive stains, there are easy-to-use cleaning agents at your home repair store.
• Stucco water stains can be repaired using a mild bleaching agent.
• Fences should be mended and painted.
• If the street sweeper does not come every week, make sure the area in front of your curb and driveway are clear of debris. Wash it down with the hose.
• Wash all windows inside and outside.
• All of these suggestions may also apply to your back yard or child's play area.

For more information and to view recent property listings, please visit www.byownermls.com.

A few items that prevent a home from selling.

Maximize your selling potential by focusing on the "look & feel" of your home. Pay attention to small details, and help potential buyers feel at home. Remember, first impressions matter!!!

1. Get a friend’s perspective: An honest third party opinion helps.
2. Create curb appeal: Improve the entrance & pay attention to the lawn & landscaping.
3. Apply fresh paint: Bring dull, dirty rooms back to life.
4. Be a handyman: Fix leaks, creaks & cracks.
5. Clear the clutter: Create a spacious & open feel.
6. Let the sun in: Natural light is warm & inviting.
7. Enjoy fresh aromas: Light a candle, bake cookies & open a window.
8. Clean, clean, clean: You get the idea.

For more information and to view recent property listings, please visit www.byownermls.com.