Real Estate in Our Town

from Our Town Monthly Fall issue September-November 2020

looking for by Megan Polichnowski

By Deborah Ratchford

Moving?

Im here to help and I’ll make sure you don’t forget about these import ant things. ’

It’s great to be back since the Pandemic has hit and I’m here to tell you that the Atlanta housing market is still strong. It’s a great time to make a move! Is your family growing and you need a bigger home? Or maybe it’s time to downsize. No matter your situation, keep these things in mind in order to make the process as smooth as possible.

Tips and recommendations for a smooth move:

Get THREE quotes from reliable movers. Consult with your Realtor, get suggestions of reputable movers they have used. Ask yourself, CAN I DO THE MOVE MYSELF or SHOULD I HIRE AN EXPERT? The answer depends on your lifestyle, household size, budget and amount of time you have to get everything accomplished. Plan to unpack before you pack. Take photos of each room in your new home BEFORE you arrive with the furniture. Create a design for each room. Label where each and every piece of furniture as well as where your boxes should be placed before packing. Make sure you have the design with you on moving day. Cross off each item as you unpack and place them.

As soon as you know the date you are moving,

START PLANNING. You can do a change of address with the post office via the internet. Schedule your utilities ahead of time at “moving.com”. Start packing early, one room at a time. Instead of waiting until the last minute, pack one

closet or drawer every night. Be proactive. Divide everything you need to do into helpful categories: *Keep this list handy until moving day. Packing early will keep your stress level down and alleviate your overwhelmed feelings.

Plan to get a sitter, family member or friend to watch your children.

If this is not possible designate an area as a safe place for the children so everyone will remain calm during the move.

• Pack • Give to charity • • (get a receipt for taxes) Donate to a friend Recycle • Trash • Have a garage sale

Look into doggie day care. Moving is stressful for your pets too. Don’t let your fur babies get lost in the shuffle.

Get plastic Ziplock baggies. Clearly mark and label the baggies for items like screws and washers from furniture pieces that need to be dismantled.

Take photos BEFORE unplugging any wires and label everything. Hooking up TVs, DVDs, home theater systems and computers can be challenging. *I recommend taking these in your own vehicle for the move.

Toxins and cleaning products should be handled and disposed of carefully. Call your city’s waste disposal division to ask what the proper way (hopefully eco-friendly) to dispose of toxins such as paint and detergents. Don’t overstuff boxes with these items. Pack a small box within a large box to assure no leaks. Mark these boxes CLEARLY especially if you have children or pets.

Get full value insurance protection. If hiring a professional mover, it may cost a few dollars more but it will provide you with peace of mind and eliminates problems in case something goes wrong. This type of insurance means any loss or damaged article(s) will be repaired or replaced or a cash settlement will be made at a current market value regardless of age. Be aware though, minimum coverage will not cover the replacement cost of the more expensive items such as a flat screen TV.

Research with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration if you are looking for interstate movers or contact the local Better Business Bureau. Don’t forget to ask your Realtor for recommendations on movers they have established good relationships with.

Now is the PERFECT time to buy a home SO START PACKING!!!!!

Please feel free to contact me with any of your Real Estate questions. Deborah Ratchford 678-570-4779 Debratchford@kw.com

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