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6 Things to Expect When Moving to a New Neighborhood

Author: 12/09/2019 0 Comments

Moving to a new neighborhood can bring up a range of unexpected emotions, whether you’re leaving with your family or by yourself. While this transition may not be the easiest, it doesn’t have to be as difficult as you may anticipate. By using the information from Ian’s Interstate Movers below, you can learn a lot about what you can expect when the move happens. It can help put your mind at ease by reducing some of the anxiety expected with this change.

1. Unfriendly/Shy Neighbors

Not all your neighbors will walk up to your door with a fruit basket and introduce themselves. Some may be unfriendly and even unhappy that new residents are coming into their neighborhood. To avoid this, it’s a good idea to introduce yourself to those who live the closest. Not only will this make daily life better, but it will also ensure added safety as everyone watches out for one another.

2. Getting Lost

Even if you’re not moving far, it can be easy to get lost on new streets. To get familiar with your surroundings, try taking a walk each day to learn the general area. Doing this can also introduce you to new parks and other community-shared spaces that you may be interested in using. You can also look online at a map of your neighborhood to learn where the best exits/entrances are for the routes you take most often.

3. Nosy Neighbors

Your neighbors won’t know a lot about you, so they’ll likely be interested in what you’re doing when you’re outside. Make things easier for everyone by being approachable and keeping the outside of your property clean and tidy. After a few months, most people will take a lot less interest in what you’re doing. It’s also a good idea to keep loud noises to a minimum to avoid causing any conflicts with those who are nearby.

4. New Trash Days

Garbage collection and recycling are essential details to consider when you move. To avoid any problems, make sure you schedule and pay for trash collection well before you move in. Also inquire about bulk trash, especially if you have large items that will need to be tossed out after the move. The last thing you want to do is make your new neighbors angry by putting out bulk items that aren’t going to be picked up for days, weeks, or at all.

5. How Parking Works

It’s crucial to pay attention to street-sweeping schedules, so you know when street parking is allowed. Aside from this, it’s important not to park in areas where you’ll be blocking driveways.

6. Questioning Safety

Even if you’re in an overall good neighborhood, it’s easy to question your safety when you’re in a new home and area. If you want some added peace of mind, ask your neighbors about a neighborhood watch. You may also want to invest in a security system if it is right for you.

Tips for Feeling at Home

Feeling like you’re at home in your new neighborhood can take a while, so don’t pressure yourself like you need to fit in right away. Give yourself time to meet your neighbors and learn how things work. In time, you’ll likely love where you live and will enjoy the new faces around you.

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How Much Auto Insurance You Need When Moving to a New State

Author: 29/11/2017 0 Comments

Are you moving to a new state and wondering if you need to update your auto insurance policy? Every state has different regulations when it comes to car insurance. While many states require just basic liability insurance, others require you to carry additional coverages like uninsured/underinsured motorist and medical payments. If you’re relocating across state lines, make sure you update your policy to adhere to state laws. Even if required coverage is the same, you might want to shop for a new policy as rates vary according to your zip code. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Do Not Terminate Your Policy Before Moving

You should never travel across states without an auto insurance policy; it is illegal. Plus, if you get in an accident during a lapse of coverage, you’ll be financially responsible for any damages you cause. You never know when you’ll into a collision or get pulled over and have no legal coverage. While you can start exploring coverage options before your move, Upside Insurance Greenville suggests waiting until you’re settled into your new home to transfer your coverage. Most states give you a grace period to get new insurance (more on this below).

Register Your Car in the Allotted Time

Most states give new residents between 30-90 days to register their vehicle after moving. To register a car, you’ll need to show proof of insurance that complies with your new home state’s laws. To do this, inform your insurance company of your plans to move a month or two in advance, or shop around for a new policy. They will notify you of any new policies required, and any cost change. Then, after your move, you can switch coverage to comply with laws in your new state. Doing the work ahead of time to find coverage will help you get your car registered in the allotted time.

Start the Search with What You Know

Moving to the unknown state may prove confusing when it comes to looking for car insurance. Therefore, Cover Hound says an excellent place to start is with your current agent. If you’re happy with your current insurer, your agent can look up other agents in your new state that sell similar coverage.

You are required to inform your insurance company of your move, but this doesn’t mean you have to terminate your plan. In fact, your insurance coverage might just need an update to your new address.

Or Start Over with a New Policy

Moving across states is a good time to change insurance companies and potentially lower your premiums. It gives you an opportunity to compare companies available in your new location. Checking online or asking referrals from neighbors is an excellent way to find a new agent.

A lot of changes come with moving to a new state, so take time to understand the regulations of your new state and choose an auto insurance company that’s a good fit for you.

 

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Renting in Philadelphia: The Ultimate Apartment Relocation Guide

Author: 02/02/2017 0 Comments

If you’re moving to or within Philadelphia and looking for an apartment, then this article was written for you. Where do you start? Which apartments can you afford? Which are more spacious? How many bedrooms and bathrooms? These questions and more will be answered in this helpful guide to renting in Philly.

The Avenir

Let’s start with The Avenir, located at 42 South 15th Street. According to philly.curbed.com, this complex is a hot new addition to Philadelphia. It features several floor plans that range from flats and studios to one and two-bedroom apartments. The Avenir is conveniently located near the University of the Arts, Peirce College, Moore College of Art and Design, and Drexel College of Nursing. This complex is a good choice if you attend or plan to attend any of these schools. Rent ranges from $1,350 to $2,640.

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The Granary

The Granary on 1901 Callowhill Street, gives you a lot more for your money. This complex is surrounded by world class museums, which is desirable if you enjoy history. It includes a fitness center and yoga studio, which is nice if you’re trying to get or stay fit. Units feature one or two bedrooms with a maximum of two pets are allowed per unit ($350 pet fee must be paid beforehand). A valet laundry service is available and there’s also a private garage for tenants. Rent starts at $2,050 a month.

3601 Market Street Apartments

Now let’s look at the 3601 Market Apartments. Located on 3601 Market Street, these apartments grant convenient access to retailers, such as Dunkin Donuts, Danlu Restaurant, Jimmy John’s, and Herban Quality Eats. Units are cable ready, and if you’re lucky, include a balcony. Pets are welcome as long as you pay a $250 deposit. One bedroom and two bedrooms are available, with monthly rents between $1,679 – $4,776. This and more information on this complex can be viewed here.

Park Waverly

Located on 155 East Godfrey Avenue, this lower cost apartment complex is much cheaper than the ones mentioned so far. With rent starting at $900 a month, every home includes a private patio and terrace. They are also pet-friendly, and units include new appliances and spacious closets. Tenants have access to a swimming pool and private parking accessible with keycards. More information can be read here.

Lindenwood Apartments

If you are 55 years of age or over, this apartment complex is perfect for you. Located on 100 South Shadeland Avenue, Lindenwood Apartments is a comfortable community for active seniors. Unfortunately, pets are not allowed. However, units include balconies and are cable ready. Tenants have access to a laundry facility and assigned parking.

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Moving into Your Apartment

Whether it’s one of the above-mentioned apartment buildings or another complex, we hope that you find a wonderful place to call home in the Philadelphia area. Once you’ve signed your lease, it’s time to think about the moving process. While you may want to go it alone, hiring professional movers can make the task of navigating your bulky furniture upstairs and down narrow hallways a lot easier. If you’re looking for affordable local and long distance moving services, here are a couple of movers that we recommend:

Cheap Movers Philadelphia
744 South Street #722
Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 618-9686

Brothers Movers
264 Surrey Road
Southampton, PA 18966
(215) 309-8589

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Residential Movers’ Guide to Planning a DC Move

Author: 21/12/2016 0 Comments

Relocating to any major city can be intimidating, especially if you’re moving long distance. It’s difficult to know which neighborhoods are best and which areas to avoid. If you want to get it right the first time, we’re here to help! Here is a guide to help you plan your upcoming move to DC.

The DC Housing Market

Before moving to DC, brace yourself for a reality check when it comes to housing prices. The DC housing market is one of the most expensive in the nation. Of course, the cost of housing gets more expensive the closer you get to downtown DC, with prices also spiking near metro stops. Because most people commute into the District, there is a clear directional flow during rush hour. Determine the maximum distance you are willing to commute each way, and use that as a guide to start house hunting. Keep in mind you might get an additional thousand square feet of living space for an additional ten minutes on the road.

Choosing a Neighborhood

Without a doubt, two of the best tools researching neighborhoods are Greatschools.org and NeighborhoodScout.com. Greats Schools rates schools between 1 and 10, based on their standardized test scores. Even if you don’t have any children, check out local schools before purchasing a home. Schooling is considered extremely important in the DC area and being in a good school district is viewed as a huge plus for resale value. Also, the website lets you choose a geographic area, and you can even click to see a specific school’s attendance boundaries to make house hunting easier. NeighborhoodScout.com is another great tool to help in your neighborhood search. It shows crime statistics for each neighborhood and makes it possible to see what kind of criminal activity is happening near your desired area. By far, the most prestigious county in Northern Virginia is Fairfax County, which also boasts some of the best schools.

Getting Around the DC Metropolitan Area

Traffic in downtown DC can be horrible at rush hour, so it’s best to find alternative ways to get to and from work. Rush hour is typically from 5 to 9 am, and 3 pm to 6:30 pm. The metro system is without a doubt the best way to get around. Riding the metro will save you the hassle of fighting traffic, and costs are minimal. The average daily commute costs around $12 per day round trip during rush hour, depending on where you’re going. Most government employers reimburse metro costs, so be sure to check your employer’s commuting benefits.

DC’s Job Market

Keep in mind the job market in the DC area is very competitive. The biggest employer by far is the US government, and dozens of law firms and corporations also have headquarters here as well. Be prepared to put your best foot forward to keep up with the concentration of highly qualified individuals living here.

Cost of Living

Aside from the exorbitant cost of housing, the cost of living in the DC area is quite good. Obviously, the closer you get to the city center, the more you will pay for goods and services. The cost of gasoline, food, and other expenses hover around the national average, with lower taxes in Virginia than in Maryland or DC.

Relocating to Washington, DC will be a fantastic experience. DC is an amazing city, rich in history and cultural activities. Do your research to help determine the best area for you and your family, and you will absolutely love living here. When it comes time for your move, find affordable movers for less, when you book with Cheap Movers DC (website). This company pairs you with local movers that are licensed and reputable at some of the best rates in town, taking the stress and expense out of the moving process!

 

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Local Moving Company Gives 7 Reasons People Love Living in Phoenix AZ

Author: 17/12/2016 0 Comments

If you are thinking about or planning a move to Phoenix, congratulations! The capital city of Arizona offers mild winters, affordability, and loads of entertainment, making it a great place to call home. Additionally, here are seven more things to love about living in Arizona’s prettiest valley:

1. No Ice or Snow

Do you hate frozen toes and dealing with snow? Well, consider moving to Phoenix if you want to experience winters that rarely require more than a sweater. The coldest it gets is around 45 degrees in December. Yes, you must contend with some blazing hot summers, but it’s nice to avoid having to bundle up and shovel snow in the winter.

2. Affordability

If you are looking to purchase a home in a metropolitan area, you should consider Phoenix because it’s ranked the 8th most affordable metropolitan real estate market in the country. Even those who bring home less than $42,000 a year can still afford a modest house in this sunny city. Overall, the cost of living in Phoenix is just below the national average, which means your paycheck stretches further than in other pricier metro areas like San Francisco or Seattle.

3. Parks

41,000. That’s the number of acres that Phoenix’s desert parks cover. If you like spending time outdoors, there’s no shortage of hiking trails that scale the surrounding mountains and offer stunning views of the city, such as the view from atop Camelback. The city also has 182 city parks, including dog and skate parks, meaning there’s outdoor fun to be had for just about anyone.

4. Museums

Do you love art? Science? Racecars? Check out the great museums in Phoenix, which include the Phoenix Art Museum, the Arizona Science Center, and the Penske Racing Museum.

5. Dining

Whether you’re getting a hot dog at Short Leash Hot Dogs downtown or rattlesnake at Rustler’s Rooste Steakhouse, you can guarantee that a meal at one of Phoenix’s best restaurants will not only be delicious, but quite possibly unforgettable. The restaurant scene in Phoenix and the surrounding neighborhoods is constantly improving, and additions in recent years have put this town on the culinary map.

6. Sports

Phoenix is a haven for major league sports fans. The Valley is home to five major sports franchises, including the NBA’s Phoenix Suns, the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury, MLB’s Arizona Diamondbacks, NHL’s Arizona Coyotes, and the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals.

7. Nightlife

Looking for something to do on a Friday or Saturday night? Check out the great bars, dance clubs, and music venues in Phoenix. Grab a drink at Sidebar, get your dance on at Sky Lounge, or catch a show at the Rhythm Room. There’s no shortage of fun to be had in this hot desert city.

We hope this has given you a good idea of why Phoenix is a great place to live. Not only are there plenty of activities to keep you entertained, but you won’t have to contend with freezing temperatures or break the bank to live here. Thanks to this local moving company, Cheap Movers Phoenix ,(www.cheapmoversphoenix.net) for providing their input for today’s post. These moving professionals have the expertise to get you moved, whether it’s in town or long distance.

 

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Money Saving Tips for Your Long Distance Move

Author: 12/12/2016 0 Comments

When you think about moving across state lines, one of the first things that probably comes to mind is the expense. While an interstate move can get pricey, it can be manageable if you set a budget and look for ways to save money along the way. By executing the money saving tips mentioned below, you could save hundreds, if not thousands on your next long distance move:

Schedule Your Move

If you can, try to schedule your move ahead of time, and do it during a time when long distance movers aren’t as busy. Experts recommend moving from September through May, when children are in school and most families try to avoid a disruptive move. By planning ahead and scheduling your move during a down time, you could save up to 30 percent off regular moving rates.

Drive Yourself

Driving a moving truck isn’t as hard as one might think. If it was, the government would more than likely require you to get a special license. Since most long-distance moves will be long stretches of easy-to-navigate highway, consider driving the moving truck yourself. Even if you hire a moving company to load your truck, this could potentially save you thousands since driving the truck is often the most expensive part of the moving process.

Look for Free Moving Boxes

Moving boxes and other moving supplies can really add up, but you can save lots by acquiring used boxes. Free boxes can be found just about anywhere, no matter where you live. Talk with a grocery store manager or even head to your local liquor store to see if it can supply you with discarded boxes. Even if they don’t currently have any extra boxes laying around, they may be able to set some aside for you the next time they receive a shipment. Don’t waste any money on boxes until you try these strategies first.

Get Rid of Junk

The more you have, the more space you’re going to need on the moving truck, which translates to more money spent. No matter when you plan on moving, now is the time to start de-cluttering your home and getting rid of anything you can’t or won’t use in the future. Whatever you don’t need can either be sold at a garage sale to raise funds for your move, or if you don’t have the time, consider donating it for a nice tax deduction. Don’t get rid of too much stuff, however. With each item, ask yourself if you will use it in the new home. If you haven’t used it in the last few years, now’s probably the time to get rid of it.

Do as Much as Possible Yourself

Lastly, do as much as you can, but always make sure you value your time. If it’s going to take you one hour to move a desk, you may be better off hiring local movers to do it in half the time. From packing up items to throwing a few things in a back of a truck, the more you do, the more you will be able to save. If you feel you have to hire moving professionals, don’t get scared just yet because a lot of times, hiring the right help can be a lot more reasonable than you think.

Whether your out of state move takes you to the East Coast or to America’s heartland, there are plenty of ways to reduce your moving costs. A little prep work and planning will go a long way in rescuing your wallet!

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Considering a Move to Austin? Here’s What to Know

Author: 30/11/2016 0 Comments

The city of Austin, Texas is one of the most popular places to live in right now, and it’s easy to see why! Austin is a great location for people who are searching for excellent weather, quality food and dining, beautiful scenery, and exciting live music venues. And although the city has a lot to offer for anyone, it might be helpful to learn more about the Texas state capital before considering a move here. Below are a few important things to know about the wonderful city of Austin.

Career Opportunities

Austin is a popular destination for people in search of career opportunities, particularly in the technology sector. The city is a technology haven that’s rapidly expanding, as tech companies continue to move here to escape the high rents of Silicon Valley. While Dell was one of the first big tech companies in the area, more recent additions include Apple, Google, Facebook, Hostgator, and Atlassian, just to name a few. If you want access to an abundance of jobs in the technology field, Austin may be a good fit for you. There seems to be no shortage of jobs for graphic designers, software engineers, or developers, in the Austin area.

Cost of Living

Austin tends to be significantly cheaper than many other metropolises in the United States which would explain why people are flocking to the capital city from places like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York. If you assess other cities around the same size as Austin, like San Jose or D.C., they often have a higher cost of living. Austin’s cost of living is 3% lower than the national average, which means Austinites generally don’t have to pay as much for medical care, accommodations, monthly utilities, transportation, or food. People who want the perks of living in a large city without the price tag, may want to consider a relocation to Austin.

Extreme Weather

If you’re the type of person who gravitates towards warmer temperatures, then Austin won’t disappoint! Sweltering hundred-degree afternoons are very common during the summer months in Texas, which means you’ll have to make prolific use of your air conditioner. Locals have figured out a number of ways to keep cool during sweltering summers, including taking a dip in the beautiful Barton Springs Pool or sipping on a refreshing margarita at one of Austin’s many Tex-Mex restaurants. Blistering summer temps also mean Austin has mild winters compared to the rest of the country. Many Central Texans don’t break out jackets until late November, and it’s not unusual to have 70-degree days during the peak of winter.

Transportation

Austin differs from many other major cities in that its public transportation is lacking. While the city has a bus system and recently installed a light rail for suburban commuters, it doesn’t have a great subway network like those in other metropolitan areas such as Seattle or Chicago. Most people who live in the city opt to drive themselves, which has led to significant traffic problems as Austin’s population has boomed in the last decade. If you don’t know how to drive or don’t own a vehicle, you’ll need to consider enrolling in drivers ed or buying a car before moving.

Austin Movers

If you decide Austin is the city for you, you’ll probably want to enlist the help of a local moving company to help you with the transition. To get the best rates, it’s recommended that you get quotes from multiple movers in the area. To assist with your search, here are some of Austin’s best moving companies:

Square Cow Movers
(512) 401-6683

Einstein Moving Company
(512) 815-8781

Although Austin may be different that what you are used to, this weird city is loads of fun. If you’re lucky enough, you too will get to experience the thrill of living in Texas’ capital city.

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Relocation Guide for Moving to New York City

Author: 25/11/2016 0 Comments

Making the move to New York City can be a daunting and overwhelming experience. With so many districts and boroughs within the city’s large landscape, it can seem impossible to know where to begin when searching for a home. To make your relocation to the Big Apple easier, here’s our guide to help out with the moving process.

Study the Layout

Before making a move to NYC, you should take some time to familiarize yourself with the city layout. Review a city transit map in addition to downloading the NYC Subway App. You should also take some time to research how the city’s streets and addresses work. For example, there’s a distinct difference between NYC’s streets and avenues. Learning the different street grids of the city will help you to better understand where you’d like to move.

Research Different Neighborhoods

Before searching for a place to live, find out which neighborhood in NYC best suits you and your family’s needs and tastes. Each neighborhood has something unique to offer, and you’ll want to know what each area can bring to the table before moving there. Try researching the different boroughs of the city to get an idea of each neighborhood’s character. You may also want to consider spending a day in the city getting to know the neighborhoods you do like and then targeting your apartment search to those areas.

Hire a Realtor

Apartment hunting in NYC is a completely different experience when compared to most other cities in the United States. In addition to housing being much more expensive, there is also a lot of work involved in actually securing an apartment. It’s highly recommended to hire a realtor during the moving process, as realtors can simplify the house-hunting search.

Along with your check and application, your realtor will make sure that you are prepared with proof of income, bank statements, and tax returns. Housing laws are very strict within the city, and realtors can help prove that you can afford to rent a space. Your realtor can also help identify properties that best suit your and your family’s needs.

Be Aware of Costs

When searching for an apartment or hiring a realtor, be prepared for a lot of up-front costs. You’ll need to provide first and last month’s rent in addition to a security deposit of 1.5 months rent when signing a lease with a landlord. Real estate agents also typically charge one month of rent as their fee to help you find an apartment. As soon as you and your realtor see a place you like in the city, you’ll want to break out your checkbook and make a deal right then and there. Apartments move very quickly in Manhattan and it could be weeks before you find something if you are too picky.

Hire a Professional Mover

Once you’ve settled on a neighborhood and found an apartment, you’ll want to shop around for professional movers. New York City streets can be difficult to navigate, particularly in a large moving truck, so you may want to reconsider if you were thinking about moving things yourself. Plus, it’s nice to leave the heavy lifting to someone equipped with the right tools and knowledge to get the job done quickly, like this New York moving company. Before hiring anyone, verify the company’s licensing and insurance to make sure your belongings are protected. Intrastate moves are regulated by the New York State Department of Transportation, while interstate movers are regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can easily check a company’s credentials on these sites depending on whether you’re making a local or long distance move.

Once you’re moved in, take time to explore your new surroundings and discover the magic of living in New York City. Living here is an unforgettable experience filled with incredible opportunities around every corner.

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