How to Successfully Buy a House Remotely

By Scott Russell

Today, it’s amazing how much business we can conduct in the comfort of wherever we are. People can shop online, carry out banking activities, and work from home remotely. Things have gone a step further because you can now even buy a house remotely.

There are many reasons why someone would want to buy a house remotely. According to the New York Times, about 63% of buyers made an offer on a home they hadn’t seen in the months of November and December 2020. In addition, 75% of millennial homebuyers are now working remotely because of the pandemic, and 63% of this population admit that their home search is motivated by the fact they have become remote workers.

If you’re a buyer looking for your next home, this spells wonderful news in many ways, but of course, you need to be cautious throughout the process. The convenience of online transactions is often tempered by its risks, but it’s possible to secure a positive outcome if you do your due diligence and you have an experienced real estate agent assisting you.

With that in mind, here’s what you need to know to buy a house remotely and successfully.

Partner With the Right Agent

The importance of finding the right agent can’t be overstated, and this is typically the first step if you want to ensure a successful home-buying experience. That’s because when you’re buying a house remotely, you still need an agent that can vet the place for you and give you the first-hand details you need to know. In a nutshell, here’s what you need to consider when choosing the best agent.

Local agent. The agent should be closely familiar with the neighborhood and the community, the available amenities, and other interesting tidbits. They can also help provide information about the best local lenders and home inspectors in the area.
Experience. The agent should have sufficient experience with the remote home buying process. This ensures that the agent will be able to walk you through the process and explain any technologies that may be needed to make the process smoother. Experienced real estate agents are more likely to find the most suitable properties and negotiate a better price for you.
Availability. Buying real estate remotely requires a lot of back and forth, so it’s essential that the agent should have enough time for out-of-town clients. The agent needs to be available both during business hours and after hours so that everything can move forward quickly.

communication with your RE agent and move manager is important Once you have established that the real estate agent will be available as your proxy during crucial times and they have the right experience and knowledge, be sure to communicate with your agent as much as possible. No matter how experienced your agent is, they won’t be able to find the perfect property for you unless you’re very specific about your preferences and what you’re looking for when you buy a house remotely.

Therefore, it’s important to sit down and come up with a detailed wish list. When you share this wish list with your agent, they should be able to narrow down the search using factors such as pricing, square footage, the style and age of the home, and location. Other details like the number of bedrooms and bathrooms and whether or not the home has a basement also matter.

Be sure to also communicate about your deal-breakers so the agent doesn’t waste time chasing after the wrong listings. If your wish list changes at any point or you have any other concerns, don’t hesitate to let your agent know.

Find Out What Every Step Entails Before You Buy a House Remotely

While it’s true that an agent can be very helpful when you’re buying a home remotely, it still doesn’t hurt to do your own research. Here are some things to keep in mind.

The offer. Be sure you understand the necessary offer terms for your state. You can review these with your agent so that when the time comes to make an offer, you’re already thinking about what to include in the offer. It’s very possible for negotiations to happen when the buyer and seller are long distance. Again, technology plays a crucial role and offers many communication channels, such as email, phone calls, and video conferencing.
Appraisal. Your lender will also need to do an appraisal to secure financing when you buy a house remotely. Fortunately, the appraisal process isn’t too complicated and can be done without your physical presence. Usually, the value of a property is determined by comparing it with similar properties in the area that have recently sold or are on the market.
Home Inspection. Your agent can schedule a home inspection without you being present. Be sure to ask the agent and inspector to call you at the end of the inspection to discuss any major findings. You can also review the inspector’s report to get a better understanding of all the physical aspects of the home.
Title review. You will also need to do a title review so you are aware of the property’s ownership history and any restrictions that apply.
Closing. This is the last step in the home buying process, and if you’re doing it remotely, you’ll be able to sign some paperwork online. The good news is your electronic signature is as legally binding as if you had signed the papers in person. Once your e-signature is in place, the documents are sent back to the other party. If a physical signature is required, such as in the case of notarized documents, the necessary documents will be FedExed. The most important part of the closing process is the wiring of funds to complete the transaction. From there, you will be ready for the move!

trus your RE agent to understand the local market place and choose wise for pack & unpack Even when all is said and done, be sure to do a final walkthrough – either yourself or through your agent’s camera – to confirm that the home is in good condition and everything is above board. Before you close on your home and after you make your offer, you’ll have time to do a final evaluation and be sure any agreed-upon repairs have been completed.

Some states allow an official due diligence period for home buyers. However, if your state doesn’t, you may have other contract contingencies that will protect you in the event you find a major issue with the house or the appraisal.. That way, you’re free to back out of the contract or renegotiate with the seller.

The good thing about this contingency period is that it allows you to review title documents, complete the financing process, and do other tasks before closing. You can also take this time to visit and view the property in person and conduct a thorough inspection before committing.

Learn the Tips and Tricks for Online House Hunting

To buy a house remotely in the past was unthinkable, but now it’s more than possible. Beyond the official steps you need to take, it’s also important to learn all the tips and tricks that help this process become a success. For instance, before you make your offer, your agent will give you a virtual tour of the property.

You need to be alert and vigilant during this process. Instead of trusting the photos, make sure the agent walks you through every part of the property during your video chat. Make notes so you can go over them later. Don’t be shy about asking your agent to go over a certain area again or open doors, check appliances, and test light switches.

Since nothing compares to an in-person inspection, you should also ask your agent to point out other details, such as musty odors and temperature details. Another thing you should do ahead of time is create a house hunting checklist so you don’t miss out on anything important in the process.

The Bottom Line

Buying a home remotely works well for out-of-state real estate investors, those who are buying a second home, and anyone buying a home on behalf of a loved one, such as in the case of senior relocation. Plus, when the home-buying process is over and ready to move in, you can hire organizing services and relocation specialists to help make your move go as smoothly as possible. Overall, finding the right real estate agent and learning all you can about the home-buying process is key to a successful deal.

About the Author

Scott Russell is the owner and broker-in-charge of Freestone Properties located in Asheville, NC. Freestone Properties has the ability to help you buy a beautiful mountain home in Asheville or Black Mountain remotely, so contact us today!

Best Places to Retire on the West Coast

One place for seniors to move to is a Florida coastal city with waterfront houses and boats.

Finding the best place to retire and spend your golden years can be an exciting prospect. There are many options to choose from, and the American West offers a lot of diversity. You’ll have an easy time finding entertainment options and medical facilities, and the coast has great weather. In this article, we will look at some of the best places to retire on the West Coast.

Determine any special needs

To focus your search and narrow down the list of options, you can start by making a list of any special needs you may have. Perhaps you have a medical condition that requires specific care. See if the place you want to relocate to has the facilities you require.

Do you have hobbies or interests?

Perhaps you like to go swimming, or it may be required as part of physical therapy. In that case, you should pick a place that is close to the beach or has access to a pool. Also, think about what kinds of entertainment options appeal to you. If you like watching movies you can pick a place with a theater.

Elderly couple hiking in the woods in one of the best places to retire on the West Coast.

Pick comfort and functionality

Small cities usually have tightly knit communities, and you can get to know all of the neighbors. On the other hand, you can pick a tourist destination you like and become a local. That way, you’ll have easy access to recreational facilities and enjoy the benefits of a permanent vacation hotspot. Whatever you end up deciding on, you must practice self-care in every step of the move. Always keep your best interest in mind and unload as much work as you can to professionals.

How to organize a senior relocation

Like with any move, you are going to need to do a lot of planning. Here is what you’ll need to do before the move:

Downsize. Organizing the move will be a lot easier if you have fewer items you’ll take with you. Here is a list of resources that will help you clear your home before the move.
Go scouting. Before you decide for sure that you will move somewhere, you can go for a visit first. Try to organize a short trip to get to know the area you’ll move to better.
Find the right movers. Moving across state lines can be complicated. So, for instance, if you are relocating from Nevada, you will have to find the right interstate movers. It will be a lot easier to leave Nevada with some help from experienced and reliable movers. Some moving companies offer additional services like packing or storage, which can make the whole ordeal much smoother.
Make a checklist. It’s easy to get overwhelmed and forget something. Put everything down in writing. That way, you won’t mix up any dates or telephone numbers.
Hire a senior move manager. If you find that everything is a bit much, there is no need to panic. There are professionals who can help you and take care of everything.

Downsizing and getting rid of clutter can make the move easier.

Our picks of the best places to retire on the West Coast

Moving to the West Coast can be the perfect change you need. Relocating to a more desirable location is the best way to spend your retirement years. There are many cities located in the coastal states of California, Oregon, and Washington for you to choose from. Here are some of our favorites.

Sequim, Washington. With a population of just under 7,000, Sequim is a fast-growing community that is popular with retirees. It boasts having very little annual rainfall, making it one of the driest places in Washington’s west.
Indian Wells, California. Located in a desert oasis, Indian Wells offers plenty of outdoor activities and is home to the sixth-largest tennis tournament in the world. The city boasts affordable housing and plenty of untouched desert beauty.
Astoria, Oregon. This small coastal town is the first American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains. Astoria has a population of 10,000 and has plenty of parks and recreational areas. A popular standout is the Oregon Film Museum which holds memorabilia from the many movies filmed in Astoria.
Palm Desert, California. Located near Palm Springs, this city has a population of 52,000. With multiple golf courses and country clubs, it offers numerous recreational options. Palm Desert also has urgent care and medical facilities that might be necessary for some seniors.

Palm Desert is a small community located near Palm Springs and is a fine place to retire..

South Whidbey Island, Washington. It is an island community located just 35 miles from Seattle. South Whidbey has two airports and a community-run hospital. Year-round festivals and celebrations will make you feel like you are living in a permanent vacation spot.
Del Mar, California. A beach city located in San Diego County. The place is famous for the race track event that is held there every summer. There are also plenty of other activities like hot air balloon rides, and antique shows held several times a year.

Things you need to do after the move

After you have finally moved, there are a few more things you will need to take care of:

Unpack. You can hire an unpacking service to help you sort everything out. Professional packers can assemble the furniture for you and clean up when they are done. This will take a massive load off your shoulders.
Stay decluttered. It’s important that you stay organized and clutter-free. The move can be exhausting, but it shouldn’t be an excuse to let your new home fall into disarray.

In this article, we have given you a list of the best places to retire on the West Coast, as well as some tips to help you organize everything. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or to hire professionals. There are numerous services that you can find online, which can save you a lot of stress. Allow yourself to be excited and reap only the positive benefits of the move.

Meta description: Do you need a place for your senior relocation? Here are the best places to retire on the West Coast and tips for organizing services that you can use.

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Here’s How a Senior Move Manager Can Simplify Your Move

When someone you love is going through a difficult transition in life, it’s only natural to want to help.

Older adults face complex challenges when it’s time to downsize and move. As mobility and health concerns create new limitations, many of them feel anxious and depressed. They may chafe at the idea that anything needs to change. All the while, however, the world around them becomes more difficult to navigate.

Aging can present real challenges to a person’s identity and sense of self. It’s not necessarily the case that they don’t see that anything needs to change. Rather, the scope of what needs to be done can become so huge, they feel overwhelmed. Admitting that they need help gets harder, but so does setting the situation right.

You want what’s best for your loved one. And you can see that the way things are is unsustainable.

The solution is expert help from a senior move manager.

What Is a Senior Move Manager?

Moving management is a growing field that helps thousands of people with their big moves every year. There is no one central body that governs the practice of moving management, so you want to be sure you choose a qualified senior move manager from an organization you can trust.

A senior move manager is more than just a “moving company.” In moving management, the goal is to foresee any kind of problem that could arise throughout the moving process. By recognizing issues and taking action before they start, a move manager smooths the path for seniors to make the right long-term choices.

On top of understanding moving as a process, your moving management team leader should have compassion and empathy for seniors. Physical, emotional, and psychological support are all indispensable to deliver a successful move without leaving a senior feeling like his or her life is spinning out of control.

Senior Moving Management with Compassion

Old items of clothing, end tables, mirrors, books, and keepsakes. These may not look like much at a glance. But items like this can have profound sentimental value to a senior. “Obvious” things like photographs are not the only belongings that need to be protected, especially if the older adult has lived in a home for many years.

Sometimes, especially if they feel emotionally isolated from others, elders can develop “pack rat” tendencies. Over time, this may grow into a problem. In a cluttered, chaotic environment, seniors are more likely to suffer physical injury. They might slip and fall or be struck by debris. While most people do try to maintain pathways from one room to another, these can be difficult to navigate and may be especially hazardous if there is a fire or other disaster.

Whatever the case, move management should start with an assessment of the environment and the senior’s needs. It is impossible – and cruel – to simply sweep through a home and destroy or dispose of everything in sight. The right items must be preserved in accordance with the senior’s desires and future living space.

Seven Key Parts of Moving Management for Older Adults

Helping a senior move can be an immense, complicated, and lonely undertaking. Your senior move manager is the ally who makes it easier. They will consistently move the project forward to completion while keeping you updated. You’ll always have the details you need to make informed decisions.

Comprehensive moving management should include all of the following:

1. Clutter Assessment

If a senior has had difficulty cleaning or organizing possessions from a long and eventful life, clutter assessment, is a necessary first step. This helps ensure that hazards are removed, paths are cleared, and important items are identified as early as possible. This also provides peace of mind throughout the rest of the process, since it will be easier to navigate the space while waiting for moving day to arrive.

2. Shredding

It’s not unusual to accumulate lots of paperwork over the years. Even outdated correspondence can pose a risk of identity theft for seniors. It’s never wise to simply throw such items out: They can easily be retrieved from the trash by unscrupulous characters who notice your moving preparations. A complete process of shredding can eliminate this risk. It also helps highlight the items you may wish to scan, copy, or put away safely.

3. Electronics

Many seniors have a fraught relationship with electronics. Moving management makes it easier by identifying items that are still useful and separating out the rest. Old electronics can be dangerous, containing toxic batteries and environmentally unfriendly materials with very specific rules surrounding their disposal. Your move manager should have all the resources on-site to make sure these are safely eliminated early on.

4. Packing

Packing looms large in any move, but it’s especially crucial in moving management for the older adult. Items must be packed carefully and in accordance with an unpacking plan. This ensures that any items needed right away become available within an hour after moving. Packing coincides with staging items on the premises so they can be moved based on their order of importance, with nothing damaged or misplaced along the way

5. Moving

It’s a big milestone when people and possessions are safely underway to their destination! Before departure, your moving management leader will perform another site assessment – this time at the new home. Any equipment that may be needed, like trash receptacles, are moved in. Depending on your needs, your moving team can start setting up the new home hours or days before your official arrival.

6. Unpacking

Unpacking is just as vital as packing, and it has to be done right. One way that unpacking differs in senior moving management is that it’s a step toward organizing, where everything is set up better than new. During the unpacking phase, all your carefully marked boxes are set up and unpacked in each room. Clothes can be placed in dressers or hung up, beds made, and many other services performed that average movers won’t do.

7. Organizing

Imagine a concierge service that leaves your living space immaculate, arranged in ways that are even more convenient than you could have thought up after the ordeal of moving. That’s the objective of the organizing phase, where seniors can settle into an environment that’s warm and welcoming. After organizing is done, everything in the new living space is better than new and it’s like the whole moving process never happened.

A Clear Path Makes the Impossible Possible for Your Most Important Move

We know what you might be thinking: This is a tall order!

It takes moving management professionals years of experience to learn all the ins and outs of helping a senior achieve a seamless and ultimately peaceful move. You want this to be the best move of your loved one’s life, but with everything else on your mind and the demands on your time and energy, you shouldn’t do it alone.

Contact A Clear Path for personalized advice. We look forward to helping you and your loved one soon.

Photo by Karolina Grabowska from Pexels

7 Tips for Moving Cross Country in 2021

Most people cherish the warmth and coziness of their familiar homes. But sometimes, with a fantastic new job or a house offer on the horizon, one starts considering a long-distance relocation. Relocations are never easy, particularly the cross-country ones. There is a lot of emotional and physical tension to face. And, suddenly, everything seems strange and unfamiliar. The last year and the COVID-19 pandemic have brought us even more stress and anxiety. Most of us prefer either staying home or have resorted to relocating to more secluded places. With so many things going on, it’s no wonder that moving management has developed into a significant field over the years. Today it is nearly impossible to move without professional relocation, productivity, and organizing services. Keeping yourself informed is another paramount of today’s society, especially before significant life changes. So, here are our seven valuable tips for moving cross country in 2021.

Moving cross country should be coordinated with a senior move manager for the best success.

1. Make time your ally and not your enemy

Our lives are a constant race with time. But once you realize that the key is in making that a motivational factor and not a reason for despair, you will get a significant advantage. So how can you make the time work for you the best way?

Plan your cross country move well ahead.
Make a detailed plan with your and other’s responsibilities with at least rough dates and timings.
Stick to written timings as much as you can.
Always leave some buffer time for unforeseen circumstances.

By planning on time, you give yourself a significant advantage

tools for planning moving cross country in 2021- a watch, pens, and a planning document from a move manager 2. Proper planning and organization

More than half of your relocation is in proper planning and organization. Every move, including the cross country one, can be divided into several stages, tasks, and duties. If every one of them is executed according to a detailed plan, the outcome should be satisfactory. Some of the crucial stages of every move to consider and account for are:

Preparation stage– includes planning, calculations, supplies gathering, etc.
Downsizing stage– at this stage, you need to declutter and organize your rooms and your belongings. When moving across the country, no one can afford to bring every single item with them. Besides, starting life over means a lot of new things will come your way.
Packing stage– at this stage, you should decide which of the remaining items to pack and bring along and which to recycle and donate. The final priority lists are made, and careful packing and protection of your belongings take place.
The transportation stage– the stage when all your belongings are being transported to their new location. Professional moving personnel usually conducts it.
Unpacking stage– the final stage of your cross-country move in 2021. Once you unpack all your boxes, you have officially moved.

3. Make moving cross country in 2021 as easy as you can

The best way to do that is by hiring relocation specialists, of course. Luckily, nowadays, there are numerous moving services that various companies provide for your convenience. Some of them have even specialized the interstate and cross country moves. These can turn such a tiring undertaking, as a cross-country move is, into a breeze and are, therefore, your best option. Furthermore, their services are carefully categorized. Whether you are moving your home or office, they have the appropriate tools and strategies for you. So, why would you struggle with so much work and responsibilities when, for a reasonable price, you can save a lot of time and effort? Practice self-care during a move and ease the relocation on yourself whenever you can.

4. Prepare your future home

Your cross-country relocation will be more pleasant once you know that your new home is waiting for you perfectly prepared. So whether you hire professional cleaning and home organizing services, or you prefer making your new house feel more like home by yourself, it would be superb if all is ready before you move in. That way, not only can you relax upon arrival, but you will be better motivated along the way.

Additional health tip for a cross country move in 2021

Amid the pandemic, it is essential to keep hygiene in mind throughout the move. Thorough cleaning and disinfection of your new house, plus careful disinfection of all the boxes, before and after the transportation, should suffice. And don’t forget to wash your hands as often as possible.

a move manager will help pack and unpack better if they have space plans for the new residence.

Thoroughly disinfect and prepare your new home before moving cross country in 2021

5. Prepare for the long road ahead, especially when moving cross country in 2021

And while your belongings are in safe hands, you should not forget about your well-being either. Keep in mind that the road is long, and packing an essentials bag is a must. It will prove invaluable during the trip. You should have the essentials with you at all times as they will help you have as comfortable a relocation as possible. A bottle of water, some energizing snacks, personal documentation, and some spare clothes are a must. Everything else is up to your preferences and needs.

6. Provide special care for special cases

If you are helping your senior family member relocate to a more peaceful town somewhere across the state, they will also need help handling such a stressful and demanding situation as this one. Senior moves and downsizing require special attention and care, so you need to make sure find the right movers that offer senior relocation services. Similarly, if your kid is moving out to go to university, you can research companies that provide assistance for this type of relocation. A team of specially trained, trustworthy, and kind movers can ease these specific relocations to a great extent.

a successful move is enhanced when using a certified move manager

Make your seniors happy and at peace by organizing professional senior relocation services for them.

7. Don’t underestimate the unpacking part

When thoroughly organizing moving cross country, people tend to underestimate the unpacking stage. However, the relocation does not end with your belongings transported to your new home. You still need to unwrap everything and find a suitable space for every piece. You certainly want your new home to be well organized and comfortable. Here too, you have two options. You can spend days unpacking and arranging your stuff, or you can hire unpacking services; it is entirely up to you.

Final words

Moving cross country in 2021 is not an easy task. On the other hand, it can be a memorable and enjoyable adventure with adequate strategies and help. So stop postponing it and embrace the experience instead. Remember, the sooner you start, the sooner you can enjoy your new home.

Using a Checklist before downsizing will create an easier less stressful move

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Moving Management: 6 Common Selling Mistakes

Deciding to sell your home is a significant decision requiring time, energy, and considerable financial preparation. When one decides to put their home on the market, there are many considerations and sometimes tough decisions to make but remember there are certain ways to make the selling process a bit more smooth. Here are a few moving management tips and common mistakes to avoid when listing and selling a home.

1. Incorrectly pricing your home

Arguably the most important part of the sales process when selling your home is determining a price point. The price you set for your home can depend on a variety of different factors such as timing, location, neighborhood comps, and interest rates. Pricing your home too high is risky, even if you are selling in a favorable market. For example, pricing much higher than the true market value could lead to problems during the appraisal process or could send a red flag to buyers if it sits on the market too long. Conversely, you may consider pricing lower than market value to draw attention to your home or to start a bidding war. While this can work in some cases, remember that this strategy could end up backfiring if not done properly, so always do your research ahead of time to yield the best outcome.

2. Not having the correct paperwork in order

There is a significant amount of preparation involved when selling, so getting organized and preparing all necessary paperwork ahead of time can lead to a more smooth process when it comes time to sell. Here’s some paperwork to have prepared ahead of time:

Loan information
The deed
Your original sales contract
The title report
Your homeowners’ insurance policy
Maintenance and repair records
Property tax information
Utility bills

Additionally, it could be helpful to have a copy of the survey, especially if you have a large piece of property or if you have fencing or obscure boundaries on your land. Also, if you are including appliances in the sale of your home, try to look for any warranties or user manuals to serve as a resource for potential buyers.

3. Being inadequately insured

When you are preparing to sell your home, don’t overlook the importance of carrying adequate insurance policies. Even though evaluating your current coverage might seem like a daunting task when you inevitably have a significant amount of other items on your to-do list, it is nonetheless an important piece in guaranteeing that you are adequately protected. For example, if you have made significant improvements to your home leading up to putting it on the market, look back into your homeowners’ coverage to ensure the policy is sufficient. For instance, if you installed a new gourmet kitchen to attract buyers but only have builder’s grade coverage in your current policy, consider updating this amount to reflect your home’s improved value while you are still an owner.

Whether you are downsizing or upgrading your home after you sell, it can be helpful to re-evaluate your financial situation to determine if your needs are going to be changing. For example, some may consider updating their life insurance coverage if selling their home will significantly change their new obligations. This is why it can be helpful to use a cost calculator to have a better understanding of how costs could change should you consider obtaining a new policy when entering this new chapter. Term life insurance tends to be a more affordable option and provides your chosen beneficiary with a lump sum of funds if you were to unexpectedly pass away. If you are moving to a home with a higher monthly mortgage payment, this could be an added consideration.

4. Not budgeting for moving management costs

While you most likely have a grasp on the price point you are looking for in a new home and have a general idea of what you are hoping to sell your current home for, remember not to overlook some of the additional costs associated with moving. In addition to the standard costs of selling a home such as lawyer fees and realtor commissions, there are also additional fees to account for when selling your home. These could include the cost of using a reputable organizing company, cleaning fees, scheduling movers, and repairs that need to be made after the inspection.

5. Not showcasing your home’s features

When you’re ready to put your home on the market, take some extra time to ensure that you are highlighting and displaying your home’s features. For example, making sure that you have quality pictures taken of your home can make a difference when attracting potential buyers. Depending on your situation, staging your home or virtually staging your home could also be a wise investment if you already have moved out all of your furniture. Having a staged home helps potential buyers take mental ownership during their showing because seeing furniture helps them picture what their life could be like living in your home. Additionally, consider making certain upgrades to your home such as painting the walls a neutral color or enhancing the curb appeal to appeal to a wide audience of buyers.

6. Not having a moving management backup plan

When selling your home, having a backup plan is key to save you from any potential headaches during the process. In particular, buying and selling a home at the same time can be a challenge, so having a solid plan is critical. Here are a few questions to ask yourself:

If you sell sooner than expected, where will you stay while you look for a new home for yourself?
Is it possible to have a contingency in your potential deal to allow for time for you to find a new home?
Are there short-term housing opportunities in your area and will you need a storage solution if you are in between housing?

These are all things to think about when selling your home but also looking for a new residence as well.

When selling your home, it can be helpful to prepare for the unexpected. Each situation is different, so being both mentally and financially equipped to handle any surprise situations that may come up can help you during this time.

Home Organizing for Downsizing Homeowners

Downsizing is always about boxes, packing them and then unpacking them. Pack by room is the best.

Downsizing homeowners are often overwhelmed by the stresses of moving as well as everything involved in packing up their belongings and getting the house ready for their buyer. We know how difficult it can be to manage everything at once, which is why we’ve put together this handy article to make things easier for you!

Consider home organizing services

There is so much to do when moving house, and sometimes we all need a helping hand to get things going. If you’re struggling to get your house packed up or aren’t able to move furniture as easily as you’d hoped, then looking into home organizing services could be the right step for you. Generally, these services offer you –

Staging support, which will involve your house being decluttered and organized to entice viewers
Moving materials provided to keep your items safe in transit and well-organized
Services to both donate or throw away items that you no longer need or want
A guarantee that your items are packed carefully
Help and support contacting any other services that you may need.

This can be a much easier approach than doing everything of your own accord and can also save you a lot of time too, letting you focus on the other aspects of your move!

Decluttering

A lot of homeowners like to declutter themselves, especially if a lot of the items that you own are sentimental. It can be a difficult task but with the right approach you can make it easier for yourself. There are a few key things to remember when you’re looking to declutter –

Start small:
You may think that you have to declutter the whole house in one weekend but giving yourself more time and taking the pressure off will lead to much better results. A great way to get started is to focus on one area at a time, such as under the stairs or a junk drawer in the kitchen. Small achievements help you stay on track and will keep you motivated, and in no time, you’ll be seeing great results!

Before and after photos:
It can be easy to lose sight of your progress and see just how far you’ve come, which is often where people will give up on their decluttering journey and start to struggle. Taking before and after photos is a wonderful way to remind you of all of the work that you’ve done and help keep you focused.
Date checking:
We’re all guilty of keeping things longer than we probably should, and whether it’s cosmetic products, toiletries, or dried food, most households will have a good amount that they can get rid of. Most cosmetics and toiletries have a shelf life of 6-18 months, so check your items and get rid of anything out of date. Empty your food cupboards and you’ll likely find things at the back that you’ve forgotten about that have been there for several years, which you can get rid of.
Empty tables:
Flat surfaces such as shelving, small tables or cabinets are incredibly easy to clutter, and so focusing on them is a great way to declutter. Try and keep them as empty as possible, and if this feels too bare to you, you can try the rule of 3. This means that you can only have 3 things on any surface (apart from books on bookshelves!) which keep things clear while still allowing you to have your items on display.

Decluttering is perfect for a fresh start when you downsize and benefits you in more way than one – it can also help you sell your house fast as it will leave your home more organized and more attractive to your viewers.

Utilize storage

It can be incredibly difficult to let go of your belongings, especially if they have been in your family for a long time and are meaningful to you. When you downsize, generally, you’ll be moving somewhere smaller so you’re unable to take all of your belongings with you which is why decluttering is such a popular option. If, however, you’re finding that you can’t part with a lot of your items, you can decide to –

Put them in storage and give yourself some time to detach from them before you sort through to declutter
Gift them to family and friends.

Gifting things to people you know is a popular option for those homeowners who know that they no longer have space but want to see them being used and appreciated as they did themselves.

Make a floorplan

Downsizing to a smaller home will mean that you’ll likely need to reconsider your furniture and get rid of some things, especially if you’re going to have less bedrooms than you do currently. Some downsizers only realize this as they’re moving in which adds more pressure to the day and can cause a lot of problems.

Making a floorplan of your new place and outlining where your furniture will go and what will fit will help you plan ahead and give you time to either sell it or rehome it before moving day. You should also measure them too so you know that they will fit where you’re planning to avoid any problems on the day.

Doing this will show you what you can take with you and what you won’t have space for, helping you stay organized.

Organizing your home can be incredibly difficult, especially combined with the stresses of moving, but following these steps will give you an easier moving day and help reduce the chances of unexpected problems when moving day comes around.

Should You Hire Unpacking Services After the Move

Having good organizational skills may come in very handy in a lot of life situations. If you are an organized person, you may excel at your workplace or keep a tidy house, especially if you have children or pets. But, being organized doesn’t mean that you will always be on top of every situation life throws at you. One of those life occurrences is certainly relocation. Usually, people perceive relocation as a stressful period in life; now, even more than ever, with the busy schedule we all keep. That is why relocation specialists have their work cut out for them. The fact is that some of you don’t have the time or the money to go through the moving process by yourself, so hiring a move manager is the right choice. Know that they offer all possible services you can think of and are moving-related: packing, loading, unloading, and unpacking services, storage, you name it.

Which type of services is fundamental when opting for professional move management?

Some excellent moving companies offer a full pack of services that don’t just include the loading, transportation, and unloading of your belongings and household items. Their teams also do your packing, storage, and unpacking if needed. If you add time management and home organizing services to the list, you will have a somewhat clear picture of what senior move managers have in their job description. Suppose you are a working mum of two, relocating for business across the country. In this scenario, your exceptional organizational skills are good to have. Still, you may lack time and focus because of all the things you must think about and care about in the process. If your relocation circumstances are like the above scenario, a good option is to hire professional help to assist you in the moving project. Hired professionals can help you save time, and with good budgeting also money.

Busy parents with small children can benefit from professional move management.

What can you expect after moving day?

Your moving day is approaching, and you feel you have done everything right. Suppose you opted for hiring a senior moving manager and his team to help you through this endeavor. Besides, imagine that they also did your home inventories and left you a clear home on the moving day. But what happens when you arrive at your new house or apartment? What about all the boxes and wrap-upped furniture? Firstly, take a deep breath and acknowledge that there are many things that need to be done. It surely would be good to have someone navigate you through the unpacking process so you have more time to focus on your new job, your kids’ new school, or meeting the new neighborhood. That is why it would be beneficial to plan unpacking services after the move if the budget allows you to do so. For a more detailed outlook on the matter, look up professional organizing and what it involves.

List of tasks included in professional unpacking services

Depending on your budget and your requirements, you can opt for full service or partial unpacking. Maybe you need assistance only with one room, your library, or your closet. Then, it would be wise to choose partial organizing services. On the other hand, if you need help with organizing your whole house after moving day, hiring professionals will entail the following:

Unwrapping all the furniture and appliances
Unpacking all the boxes with other household items
Making an inventory of every item
Assembly of furniture if needed
Organization of kitchen, bedroom, closet, bathroom, or other rooms
Putting all items in place
Clean up, removal of all packaging material

To make this process go smoothly, it is essential to brief the team about your requirements. Give clear and concise input on where you would like your things to go. Most (un)packers will professionally do their job with little or no bother to the owner.

Does it cost a lot to have relocation specialists help you settle?

One of the questions you will think a lot about is how much it all costs. Well, it depends. Firstly, it depends on the size of your home. It is not the same to have a team unpack a one-bedroom apartment and a 4-bedroom house. Secondly, it depends on the time frame you need your relocation to finalize. Mostly, professionals can do the unpacking in a day or two, but sometimes people need the service quicker. If you are on a budget but still need help and assistance in this department, think about opting for partial unpacking services. For example, if you have a case of a boomer downsize in your family and you are helping, it will be useful to choose a package with estate clearing services. This way, the senior relocation process will come full circle, and the price will be complementary to a complete package deal.

Are you in need of hiring home organizing services after the move?

certified move managers are an excellent source for moving boomers and seniors that are downsizing. Certain situations almost impose hiring professional unpackers. Here is a list of such cases to help you decide whether you need these services or not:

You move a lot for business and don’t have much time to transition because of your busy work schedule.
Being a senior citizen without the help of family or friends, where packing and unpacking is a physical hurdle.
Maybe you are a busy parent with a large family, little time, and a lot of responsibilities.
You have the budget, and you want good value for your money.
Having already made a complete package deal with a moving company, from packing, clearing house estates, transportation, and unpacking.
You might have a time constraint on your unpacking for any reason, and you need the service done quickly and efficiently.

Conclusion

Whatever your reasons are, if your budget allows you to, hiring professional unpacking services can turn into an investment; you ultimately invest in more time, allowing you to take care of some more important things, like your family or your job. Time is, after all, our most valuable asset. If you have the budget and the opportunity to take advantage of a stress-free moving experience, you definitely should.

Used photos:
Featured image – https://www.pexels.com/photo/woman-smiling-behind-the-headboard-3616688/
Image 1 – https://www.pexels.com/photo/woman-in-white-crew-neck-t-shirt-sitting-on-brown-couch-4568697/
Image 2 – https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-in-black-leather-boots-sitting-on-brown-cardboard-boxes-4553277/
Image 3 – https://www.pexels.com/photo/elderly-couple-walking-on-the-street-5637575/

Dual Success: How To Start A Business And Move Your Household At The Same Time

Many successful business ventures got their starts in garages, home offices or at kitchen tables. If you’re ready to launch your small business with a goal of operating primarily from a home-based location, it might be time to consider a move that provides both your business, and your family, room to grow. Let A Clear Path help, starting with the following tips:

Plans and Professionals

While launching a new business and moving to a new home simultaneously might feel like a daunting task, when done in a well thought-out manner and the right people on your team, it can pay both personal and professional dividends!

As HRchitect explains, pre-planning is key to a successful startup. Of course, this is all the more complex when you’re moving at the same time you’re getting your venture off the ground. For your enterprise’s purposes, a formal business plan can help you structure your goals and how to meet them. It will also come in handy if you apply for any loans or grants.

For assistance with finding and purchasing a new home and sorting out details related to your venture, partnering with a professional organizer can make a world of difference. From decluttering to arranging a professional mover to packing and unpacking, turn to a professional you can trust for solutions.

Setting Your Budget

As CNBC explains, you need to create a budget that takes into consideration all of the usual home-buying financial needs, such as down payment, closing costs and fees. You may want to look for a reputable lender with experience in home-based business ventures who can help you find the best loan products available for your situation. If your new home will require any type of retrofitting (like the addition of a separate business entrance), factor anticipated costs into the budgeting process.

Striking The Perfect Balance

Of course, you’ll want to take your family’s needs into consideration when situating both the household and the business in a new location. Give thought to how you will collectively use the property. Consider a home that has a mother-in-law’s quarters or a detached casita that can be used specifically for work purposes. If that’s not possible, look for a layout that can accommodate both work and home – for example, a design where office space is on one side of the house, and communal living space is on the other.

Getting Things Organized

Don’t allow the moving process to derail your business start-up efforts. Create a “go box” that has all of your most critical files, documents and essential materials, and keep it with you, rather than pack it into storage containers. This will ensure you have all relevant business info with you throughout the move. Encourage family members to do the same by packing their own essential items and keeping them at hand. This approach will reduce any “down time” around getting your business up and running.

Making Work From Home Work

According to the Hartford Co., working from home can have numerous rewards, including having more family and personal time, An organized office is best completed with the help of a professional organizer and operating on your own schedule. Running a successful business from home requires exceptional time management and organizational skills, as well as a commitment from the rest of the household to draw a firm boundary between work and personal life.

Dedicated office space and equipment can help. For instance, buying modular furniture for your office space gives you the option of changing up your environment as your business grows; a new laptop, desktop, printer, scanner or other office essentials, such as filing cabinets, chairs, lighting and phone systems, can ensure professional operations. You can shop online for the latest offers, discounts and specials to aid in this effort.

There are many upsides to starting a new business and operating it from home. In addition to taking advantage of Internal Revenue Service home office tax deductions, you may also have the ability to set your own work hours, and cultivate a fulfilling work-life balance. There’s also the added benefit of not paying rent for office space, which potentially means you can put more of your income toward housing.

Having all of your personal and professional objectives top-of-mind before getting started will help ensure a smooth and successful venture. And remember to partner with A Clear Path, who can ease you through this challenging process.

Images: Unsplash.com

My Kids Don’t Want It- Now What?
Estate Settlement: Tangible Personal Property

By: Regina Lark, Sheri Samotin, Noelle Valentino

When downsizing, there are many precious items that need to be organized with great care

There are many challenges to dismantling an estate – from recovering important documents and hopefully avoiding probate, to deciding what to do with elegant (but worthless) tchotchkes and table linens. The size and scope of some projects can be daunting, even for the most dedicated of adult children, who likely have too much stuff in their own homes to tackle the clear-out of their parents’ household. There are so many moving parts, and often requires a team of experienced, dedicated professionals who work together to settle the estate and get the home ready for sale. An estate attorney, a realtor, and a good handyperson ought to be part of the team.

Dealing with the contents of the property is a different matter. Three professionals: a private fiduciary, an appraiser/valuator of tangible personal property, and a company that specializes in de-cluttering and downsizing, walk us a through their process to dismantle an estate, and the considerations that must be made when helping a family going through this process.

How to Get Started: Build Your Team

Sheri Samotin, Private Professional Fiduciary, LifeBridge Solutions

One of the most frequent comments I hear in my first conversation with a prospective client is, “I’m overwhelmed.” If the prospect is the family member in decluttering and organizing means that everything will be put into a proper place and can be easily found. charge of administering a trust or estate, they have many unfamiliar tasks to handle. Sometimes, I am my own Documents need to be organized professionally uasing a checklist to insure all are in place “client” if I am serving as a designated trustee or administrator. I must make the magic happen regarding clearing and distributing the personal property in accordance with the trust and/or will.

After I have reviewed the relevant documents, it’s time to lay out my strategy. Typically, the first step is to go through the home to locate any valuable items that could “grow feet” and disappear. Those items need to be secured. In addition, we search every nook and cranny for any papers that might be needed to support prior tax returns or to help us file a return. In one recent case, we

thought the decedent was a single man. In fact, when going through his papers, we learned that he had been briefly married as a young man and that the marriage was annulled. Sometimes we are looking for information related to the “family tree” to make sure everyone who is legally entitled to notice receives it. At the same time we are going through the paper, we make “shred” bags for documents that don’t need to be saved but require proper disposal.

Once the paper monster has been tamed, it is time to get an idea of the value of the personal property.

Valuing Tangible Personal Property, Appraisal and Disposition at Auction

Noelle Valentino, Fine and decorative arts specialist; household contents appraiser, John Moran Auctioneers & Appraisals

More often than not, the bulk of the value of an estate’s tangible personal property can be found in just a handful of items. It is important to engage a specialist early in the process to identify the items of significance before they are claimed by relatives, given away, donated, or worse. A qualified tangible appraiser will produce an inventory of household contents, or a formal appraisal report, depending on the needs of the estate. The intended use of the document must be disclosed in the report: equitable distribution, charitable donation, estate tax filing, or something else.

A Clear Path can coordinate the valuation and selling of collections as part of their organizing service For IRS purposes, estates approaching the exemption limit will require a household contents appraisal. The IRS defines art broadly: jewelry, paintings, silver, rugs, decorative objects and more. Outside of tax regulation, there are often issues that arise due to family reasons and an estate appraisal may be recommended to avoid later conflict. For the purposes of distribution among beneficiaries, it is helpful to discuss a minimum value threshold with the appraiser. A fair market value of several hundred dollars is often a good starting point for an object’s inclusion in the report.

Appraisals are considered legal documents and can be relied upon by an attorney, the court, or the IRS. Selecting a personal property appraiser who is USPAP compliant, with membership in one of the three preeminent appraisal organizations, is imperative. Qualified appraisers in your area can be located on the websites of the Appraisers Association of America, International Society of Appraisers, or American Society of Appraisers.

When considering the eventual disposition of assets from an estate, an auction house can also be helpful in identifying the items of greatest value in the home. With the intent to secure new consignments, they will provide free auction estimates. With that said, auction houses are likely to include only the items valued over $1,000 and appealing for bidders in today’s market. Note well that an auction estimate does not take the place of an appraisal. It is however, an advisable sale venue for estate property due to its the broad reach and rapid mode of sale, together ensuring fair market value has been achieved.

When the ‘good stuff’ is gone… Now what?

Regina F. Lark, Ph.D., downsizing and organizational specialist, A Clear Path, LLC

The typical household contains thousands of pieces of tangible personal property. Every room has stuff – some rooms have more stuff than other rooms. Drawers and cupboard and closets are filled with flatware, dishes and clothes. Even if considerable downsizing had already happened, there’s no getting around this fact: we all have to deal with our clients’ stuff.

To get the job done in an efficient and timely way, look for a professional organizing/downsizing company with access to a broad range of resources to complete the dismantling of an estate. Find out what they know, and who they know, when you ask these questions:

What does your business liability cover?
Do you have a project management fee?
Are you able to ship items across, or out of, the country?
Have you encountered a hoarding situation? If so, how do you handle the massive volume of ‘stuff?’
Do you have the ability to sell what the auction house doesn’t want?

After the auction house reviews and removes what I call the “big ticket” items, the remainder of the household contents can be photographed (to attach to donation receipt), packed-up, and hauled to the nearest non-profit. If removal is all that’s required, a good downsizing company can have the estate cleared and ready for the realtor to put on the market.

Another option is working with a traditional estate sale company. They usually spend two weeks tagging everything in the house, around the yard, and in every kitchen drawer. Many estate sale companies charge a percentage of the sale’s gross profits. For example, if the company charges 40% of gross profits and the sale yields $10,000 then you will owe the company $4,000. Be sure to ask about any additional services such as trash removal, post-sale clean-up, etc. If the estate is thick with clutter, does the estate sale company address that, too?

Over the past couples of years, online estate sale auctions have become wildly popular, and MaxSold, a Canadian company with a robust platform, has generated a large footprint in the United States. The concept is simple – an organizing team catalogs every item in the house into what are known as “lots,” distinct groupings of one or more items sold at auction– creating lots of lots! The sale is live online for 7-10 days and every lot begins at $1 (yes, one dollar). The bidding is particularly fast and furious on the final day of bidding. The ultimate split is 70% to the estate and 30% to Max Sold. If a fiduciary hires a team of professionals to dismantle an estate, it will likely come close, break-even, or make money on the sale of the remaining tangible personal property, and quite often, offset the cost of their service.

Conclusion:

Due diligence regarding the estate’s personal property is an important aspect of fiduciary duties. Sentiments tend to run high when it comes to the “stuff.” Suspend bias and remain objective with assets you are unfamiliar with, calling in experts where appropriate. Moreover, encouraging your clients to update their estate plans ahead of time, including a review of existing appraisals with personal property assets, as this can prevent later confusion. Proactive steps in identifying items of value and having a working plan for the disposition of tangible personal property can mitigate the risks and avoid family conflict, or a professional headache.

How to remove stress from a household junk removal

A cluttered home is a home with constant risks of injuries waiting to happen. That is why you should take a day or moving and de-cluttering is stressful, but is better with a professional move manager and NAPO organizer two every six months or so to clear out all the unwanted junk you have lying around your household. Stressful as this process can be, there are steps that you can take to make it organized and seamless. Whether you wish to hire professional junk removal specialists or to handle the task on your own, this article is your guide to success. Continue reading to learn more about how to remove stress from household junk removal.

A clear home through planning

Planning is key, no matter the project you’re taking on. When it comes to household junk removal, it is particularly important to know what you’re doing in advance. You’ll need time to go through your belongings, declutter and put in storage what you intend to keep. Having a plan on how to do this will eliminate stress and anxiety.

We suggest the following course of action:

Determine clutter hot spots within your home that you think should take priority.
Review your belongings room by room or area by area.
Make three piles – keep, throw away or donate, and store. When dealing with bulky items and pieces of furniture, you could use sticky notes of different colors to mark the items.
Organize friends and family members to help you with household junk removal or hire professionals to take care of it for you.

You’ll want to set a deadline for yourself for each of these stages and areas. The more structure you introduce into this process, the easier it will be to remove stress. Pick a timeframe that is attainable but not too ambitious. If you don’t give yourself enough time, you can end up feeling frustrated with how slowly it is going.

Where to start

If you haven’t decluttered and organized your home in a while, starting this project can feel quite intimidating. One of the ways of getting around this is by starting small. Pick a shelf, desk, or even a drawer. Then, give yourself some time and go through it until you finish it. Doing this will give you a sense of accomplishment and motivate you to tackle some larger areas next.

Stressful jobs: junk removal, decluttering, pack and unpack for a move. All of these are helped by using a professional organizer and move manager If you have hoarding tendencies, you may feel particularly listless about where to begin and how to choose what to get rid of. Our resources on hoarding and disorganization might be helpful here.

Safety first

Besides careful planning, another way of removing stress from a household junk removal is to take certain safety precautions. Most of these apply in both cases – whether you decide to do DIY this project or hire professional services.

One helpful tip would be to remove doors off their hinges. This will provide either you or the movers with more space, especially if you are removing some bulky items. Try using dollies and straps for any heavier pieces of furniture or appliances as well. This is the only way you can be sure you are protecting your back.

Also, try to disassemble all of your belongings that will allow it. For the most part, large furniture pieces can be torn apart into manageable pieces. There will be no other way to manage certain items, such as your pool table. Doing this can cause a lot of anxiety for some people, especially those that don’t fancy themselves the handyman around the house. The easiest way to stop stressing about it is to get someone who knows what they’re doing to handle it.

Protective equipment

Being scared of injuring yourself comes hand in hand with any estate clearing or downsizing. You are bound to have to deal with bulky and heavy pieces of furniture and appliances. Worrying about yourself or your family members getting injured can be quite a burden.

Ensure you are safe from injuries by wearing the right clothes and accessories:

Clothes that will give you good coverage but that you won’t mind ruining.
Protective gloves for your hands – the most exposed body part during household junk removal.
Sturdy boots that will protect your feel in case anything falls on them but also give you a good grip.
Safety glasses if you are using tools.
Wheelbarrow if you are doing any household junk removal in your yard. Your back will thank you.

Hiring the right organizing services and junk removals

As mentioned above, if you are wondering how to remove stress from a household junk removal, your best bet is to hire professionals to do it for you. However, even picking the people who are right for the job can cause a lot of worries. Here are a couple of things to look out for:

The company should be licensed and insured.
They should be able to manage the removal of any junk, anywhere on your property.
Ask if they handle recycling or donating items that are in good condition.
See if they will provide a free estimate in writing – this will make things much easier for you.

Conclusion

Chances are there will be some larger items you will want to get rid of, especially if you are conducting a boomer downsize project. You don’t want to cut corners here, because removing bulky items on your own in a hurry can lead to injuries or damaging your property. Your best bet towards getting this stressor out of the equation is to hire professionals who will handle your senior move and downsizing.

You might be interested in a free copy of the Table of Contents and 1st Chapter of my Book

Download a complimentary copy of the 1st Chapter of Regina’s 3rd Edition of her book, Psychic Debris

Dr. Regina Lark

regina@aclearpath.net

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