The euphoria that comes with purchasing and moving into your first home is unlike no other. You will soon be able to personalize your bedroom, cook in your dream kitchen, or create your version of a backyard oasis. But oftentimes, the excitement can get the better of you.  And while you have every reason to be ecstatic as a new homeowner, a whole lot can also go wrong if you don't take the time to think things through. From failing to improve your home’s security, to unwanted paint colors and mismatched furniture pieces and designs, watch out for these five mistakes that first-time homeowners typically make after moving into their new homes, and simple but practical tips on how to avoid them.   It's such a joyous moment to finally get your hands on the keys to your new home. But before you consider renovating your dream space, there’s one thing you need to do which many first-time homeowners often neglect: changing the locks.  Since you don’t know who else might have the keys to your property, consider replacing any old or damaged locks with new ones that are more secure. You can also add deadbolts and reinforced strike plates to your doors for added protection. It’s an added expense, yes, but it will provide you peace of mind knowing that there’s less security risk for you and your family. Soon thereafter, you might also want to invest in a security system, which can include features such as video cameras, motion sensors, and alarms that will alert you if there is any suspicious activity in and around the home.   Many new homeowners may be unfamiliar with the various systems in their house, such as the heating and cooling, plumbing, and electrical systems. These systems are crucial to the functioning of your home, and it's important to know how they work to avoid costly repairs down the line.  For example, understanding your heating and cooling system can help you to save on energy costs and prolong the life of your HVAC system. You should know how to change the air filters and adjust the thermostat settings to ensure that your system is working efficiently. Additionally, understanding your plumbing system can help you to prevent leaks and water damage. Electrical systems can also be complex, and it's essential to know when to call a professional if you experience any electrical issues. By understanding these systems, you’ll know when to call an expert if something goes wrong so you can confidently enjoy your new home.   There's nothing more exciting than putting your personal touches on your new space, and one thing you might be considering is adding a fresh coat of paint. After all, it will be so much easier to paint your room when it’s still empty or uncluttered before you move in. However, it's advisable to hold off on painting for a while for a variety of reasons. You may want to wait as you may need time to adjust to your new home's lighting. The lighting in your new home may be different from your previous one, and this can affect how colors appear on your walls. It's also important to consider how your furniture and decor will look with the new paint color. It’s also possible that there are cracks, holes, or any water damage that you need to address first. These underlying issues with your walls can affect the quality and longevity of your paint job, so it's important to tackle them before you paint. Additionally, painting can be a messy and time-consuming process. If you move in and start painting, you may feel overwhelmed and stressed. Also, remember that you might want to use decent-quality paint to prevent wear and tear issues, so this is another expense that needs careful planning and consideration.   A new house means new stuff, right? It's completely understandable to want to fill it with furniture and decor that reflects your style and personality. But purchasing new furnishings to create a fresh look in your new home without having some sort of a plan can be a costly mistake.  First, major furniture (bed, couch, dining table and chairs, etc) can be expensive, especially if you’re looking for quality pieces that you can enjoy for years to come. And if your budget is already tight after covering the down payment and closing costs, it can lead to financial stress. Consider keeping your old furnishings for a while as you settle into your new home. After living in it for several months, you can get a better feel for what you want and prioritize those furniture and appliances that you really need without draining your bank account.   Whatever renovation projects you've been thinking of doing once you’ve moved, resist the urge. Hold back and live in the house for a while to learn all about its perks and quirks. See how the light is reflected in different rooms at different times of the day, how a room is being used as opposed to its original function, or just get to know your home in general. There’s a good chance that the changes you want to make after several months may not even resemble the ideas you had when you first moved in. Besides, making rash decisions can be expensive and pretty stressful. So make sure you don't rip out those kitchen cabinets or rush to the store to buy lush trees and shrubs for your bare yard without doing some research first and creating a solid plan. Taking a measured and thoughtful approach to any renovation project will ensure that each decision you make fits your overall vision for your home. And if you’re planning to DIY, know the limits of your skills, and don’t hesitate to hire a good contractor or professional to get the job done.

Once you've closed the deal and got the keys to your new home, the next exciting part is bringing your belongings with you so you can finally settle in. But rather than finding your new place in a spic and span state and enjoying the fresh start, you stumble across items that the sellers left behind. Unless the items have been part of the home purchasing negotiations, the general rule is that sellers are expected to take all of their belongings with them when they move out. But while it isn’t uncommon for previous homeowners to have forgotten a few items behind when they move, some leave with a house full of junk, which can be a nightmare to deal with. Staring at the sellers' abandoned clutter surely isn’t what you thought you should be doing on your first night at your new place. You probably already have plenty of questions in mind: Are you allowed to get rid of those piles of junk?What could you have done to avoid getting this mess in the first place? Dealing with this issue certainly isn’t enjoyable. However, there are steps you can take and even options to choose from when you find yourself in such a situation.   How to avoid it in the first place: The best way to handle this problem? Think ahead and prevent it from happening in the first place. Unfortunately, there's not a standard provision in the purchase agreement that deals with the scenario where sellers leave items in the house after closing. Thus, you and your real estate agent should ensure that your contract stipulates that the seller’s personal belongings and even garbage must be removed from the property by a certain date.  Moreover, if the seller does leave things behind, your contract should specify that you now own those items, and you may dispose of those items as you see fit. You could even allocate an agreed upon amount of money that will be deducted from the sale to cover the cost of removing all the abandoned items. You may also consider a penalty provision under which the seller could owe you monetary damages if all their belongings are not removed in time. However, you have to anticipate that you may need to delay the closing or moving date, and/or file a small claims case for breach of contract if this occurs (which will be discussed further).   By completing a thorough walkthrough with your agent before becoming the new owner, you can ensure that the house is empty and move-in ready. Apart from checking that everything is in working order, you can also check to make sure that the sellers have removed all of their personal belongings. Open all kitchen cabinets and drawers; even the bathroom vanity, closets, and all other storage spaces. It's even recommended to take photos of anything that’s not supposed to be there, so your agent can present them at closing.  More often than not, the sellers are just as anxious as you are so they may have forgotten the items they were storing. A final walkthrough is your chance to make sure that the seller has upheld their part of the agreement. If not, there’s still time to let them know that the house needs to be completely cleared out before the moving date. What to do if the previous homeowners left their belongings: If you're already faced with the issue of having your house full of the previous owner’s junk, there are still a few ways you can handle the problem.  As the official owner of the home, the abandoned items are now yours to deal with as you wish. There's no need for you to contact the seller if you decide to throw them away. But if you want to resolve the issue amicably with the seller, you could reach out and let them know that their items are still on the property.  Sellers who may have accidentally left their items, particularly those high-value ones, might agree to pick up their belongings. However, be wary of vague promises or “I’ll get those next week” arrangements, especially from owners who intentionally left their debris. If they didn’t show up after waiting for them to follow through, it’s a good idea to take photos of the items, get an estimate for the removal, and send them to the seller to pay.   If you have issues with the previous owners not picking their belongings up or refusing to pay to have their things removed, you may now go the legal route. Consult with your attorney about state- and town-specific guidance regarding such issues. You may seek reimbursement for the cost of the junk at a small claims court based on a breach of contract. Remember that these cases can take months and that there are no guarantees.   Packing and moving your belongings is already stressful enough. It's completely understandable if you don’t want to sort through someone else’s possessions and would prefer to have everything hauled away. But if you’re motivated to make the most of what the previous owner left behind, you could keep or donate the useful items. Since buying and moving included some expensive upfront costs, maybe you could benefit from the free yet still functional furniture, home decor, or even kitchenware. You could also donate items like old clothing to local charity shops or organizations. Whether you choose to donate, sell, discard, or keep these items— it’s already up to you.   Unfortunately, if the previous homeowners only left things that are practically worthless, irreparably damaged, or broken, you might not find anything worth keeping or donating. Your best choice is to hire a junk removal company specializing in hauling away trash, furniture, and other unwanted clutter. By getting rid of the unwanted things, you finally free up space in your new home so that you can start unpacking and settling in.

You've bought your first home—congratulations! It’s a huge milestone you finally accomplished after what could be years of saving up for the down payment. However, once you’ve moved into your new home, that’s when it hits you. Your house now requires far more furniture than the tiny apartment you rented. And the furniture is expensive.  You've factored in other costs with owning a home, including maintenance costs and even property taxes but how about your furnishing needs? The last thing you’d want is to blow your entire budget and incur debts just to save your rooms from being lonely and bare. If that’s a scenario you’d want to avoid, we’ve compiled some of the best tips to help you furnish your home without draining your bank account. By combining these thrifty ways with a little creativity and a whole lot of patience, you can furnish and decorate your home and make it uniquely yours.   Take inventory and repurpose what you already have. As much as we would like to furnish our new home with fresh furniture and pieces to achieve similar looks from our Pinterest boards or Instagram feeds, for most of us, that might be unrealistic. So before you buy anything, take inventory of everything you already own. Take a hard look at your existing furniture and decor and see if any can be refashioned or reused. Likely, many of the items you already own are already nice pieces that will work in your new home. Or some of them just need a little bit of sprucing for them to match your new space. Sit down and evaluate each item, and then make a “to keep” list, excluding items that are beyond repair or that you can't stand the sight of any longer. Keep an open mind and decide where each item will be placed. Just remember the most important thing: while you don’t have to use these pieces forever, it can be a great way to fill in spaces in your new home until you can afford to upgrade.   Visit thrift shops and consignment stores. Before buying anything new from pricey, high-end stores, you may want to visit your local thrift stores and consignment shops. They often sell high-quality items for lower prices, and there's a huge chance you’ll find some great deals if you look hard enough. The stigma of secondhand shopping is rapidly declining due to the popularity of sites like Facebook Marketplace, and online auction and swap sites like eBay, Etsy, Craigslist, and LetGo. While some pieces may need to be refinished and may take a little elbow grease, they may end up being your favorite items because of their distinct character that can’t be associated with items from big furniture stores. If you have concerns about the germs, stains, and even possible infestations from used items, it’s valid, especially during the time of Covid-19. That being said, there are items you definitely shouldn’t buy used. Otherwise, second-hand items aren't any more “germy” than brand new products. Just keep in mind to appraise these items thoroughly before taking them home. Check their material, durability, and whether they are fairly clean and free from bugs or insects. And once you’ve guaranteed they’re still in decent shape, you’ll have a treasure you’ve saved from going into landfills.   Or search for yard and estate sales in your area. Aside from thrift stores, local yard sales, flea markets, and even estate sales are also a gold mine for affordable furnishings and other household items. You can find great items from people holding a yard sale, such as curtains and blinds, wooden furniture like cupboards, coffee tables, or bookcases, and other home decor items. As a rule, steer clear of items like electronics and appliances in garage sales. If something goes wrong with the TV or an old gaming console you bought, you won't have any guarantee on the merchandise, unlike if you purchase them from reputable retailers.    Watch out for seasonal sales. Furniture is a huge purchase, but it isn't impossible to catch a sale in one of your local stores or discount warehouses. Look at multiple stores and keep an eye out for deals, especially after the holidays and whenever the seasons change. For example, you might want to shop mid-winter (January and February) or the end of summer (August and September), as retailers will be discounting their old stock during these months to make room for new styles.  If you’re looking to find bargain outdoor furniture, fall can also be a great time to shop. People seldom shop for a patio set at the end of that season. Likewise, you could also wait until holidays such as Memorial Day, the 4th of July, or Labor Day, when there are usually great sales on furniture. Just be patient and remember that if what you’re looking for isn’t on sale now, it might be in a few months.   Look for freebies. If you are trying to furnish your new home on a shoestring budget, it won't hurt to use social media to look for freebies. Depending on where you live, there might be people in your community or near your area that are looking to buy, sell, or give away items for free, especially on Facebook groups. You’ll be surprised how much free stuff is on offer, mostly furniture and other items that are still in good condition. You can even score name-brand stuff if you get lucky, and all you have to do is to pick it up and move it yourself.   Get creative with paint. Don't be dissuaded if an item you like is a little worn or is the wrong color. You can give new life to these pieces, like a hand-me-down dresser or a side table, by using a fresh coat of paint. There are plenty of websites with DIY tutorials where you could pick up unlimited ideas on how to turn drab but well-loved items into conversation pieces. Feel free to explore and experiment with colors that you love, and how you can incorporate them into your furniture or home decor.    Remember to splurge on certain items. While you're dedicated to spending less to complete your new home’s look, there are a few new purchases for which you should budget. Don’t skimp on items that you need to guarantee their quality and cleanliness. For instance, if you’ve scored a sturdy and brand-new-looking bed frame from a garage sale. Splurge on a new mattress, along with new beddings, linens, pillows, and pillowcases. Don’t forget to also spend on a new sofa or any upholstered furniture, bath towels, knives, and non-stick cookware, among other things. The key is to know when it’s worth shelling out more bucks, especially if there are potential safety and health risks involved.   Everybody wants a nice and cozy home, and achieving that is probably every buyer's goal once they get their keys. But remember that your home is a work in progress — it won’t be completed overnight. You have to be patient in accumulating the pieces you want, especially if you still need to save enough money. You may have to start with the essentials first, perhaps a bed frame and mattress. Bringing your space to life will never be a competition or a marathon. You can live there and entertain guests even if it isn’t fully furnished. Embracing the process won’t only help you avoid making purchases that are way past your budget, but you’ll end up with a home that’s thoughtfully decorated. It will be filled with furnishings you really love and which speak highly of your taste, style, and work for you and your family best.

Owning and buying your first home is the perfect reason to host Thanksgiving dinner. And since it's next week, chances are you have already made a checklist and started getting ready for the long-awaited holiday. But if you haven’t or still need a few reminders to make your festivities even a little less overwhelming, we’ve rounded them up shortly but sweetly so you’ll have plenty of time to prepare not only your home but yourself so you can prioritize what really matters.   Cleaning and getting rid of any clutter around the common areas in your house, especially in the living room, entryway, bathrooms, kitchen, and dining room, will help get your home ready. This is especially true and critical in your kitchen where most of the preparation will take place. Address any usual hotspots where things tend to accumulate, such as drawers, cupboards, and even on the countertops. If you don't have time to clean the entire home, at least clean your bathroom and kitchen. Also, empty and clean the trash cans and line them up with fresh bags. Tidying up your home is a tedious part of any holiday celebration, but making the effort will surely be worth it.   If you're the kind of Thanksgiving cook who starts preparing and cooking certain foods ahead of time, including stuffings, stocks and sauces, pie crusts, and other desserts, you’ll need more room in your fridge to stock these things. So clean your refrigerator and freezer and start making space now. Sort through those leftovers and toss out anything that is expired or too old to eat, and plan to make use of any good ingredients you have on hand. Also, take stock of condiments that may need refilling. Having plenty of space in your fridge will make your holiday meal prep easier and even perfect to store your delicious leftovers.   Decluttering your kitchen and cleaning out your fridge will allow you to see what ingredients you need for your Thanksgiving prep. Finalize your list and purchase them a few days ahead of time. This way, you'll have plenty of time to run back to the store in case there’s something that you inevitably forgot. There’s nothing worse than making a last-minute trip to the local grocery store on Thanksgiving Day, only to find out that it’s closed.    It's critical you make sure all appliances are in working condition before the holiday. Clean and test them out, especially your oven, dishwasher, and even small kitchen appliances that will help make your life easier during meal prep. If you’re a first-time homeowner who hasn't used your oven yet after you settle into your new home, this is your chance to check and double-check to make sure your oven works.   Make sure you'll have enough dishes, glassware, cutlery, and even serving dishes, bowls, and platters for all your guests and holiday meals. Remember that they don’t have to match unless you’re aiming for a sort of formal gathering. They’re perfect as long as they are clean and in decent condition. If you’re considering a more casual dining celebration, consider using paper plates. Also, check for things like tablecloths and other essentials so you’ll still have plenty of time to shop for any new pieces or replacements just in case.  Likewise, since there’s a huge chance you’ll want to send your guests home with leftovers (and even keep some for yourself), don’t forget to stock up with enough plastic or takeout containers.   Taking care of the table decor the day (or even several days) before saves you a little bit of stress. Not only will you have one less thing to do and worry about on the big day, but it can also help you identify gaps in your tableware situation. Whether you opt to go all-out with some Pinterest-inspired arrangements, or just go for a simple but nice tablecloth, pretty napkins, and DIY place cards, and other seasonal centerpieces, setting the table in advance will also give you ample time to shoot and take pictures before the busy day.   The ultimate tip: Enjoy! This tip might be the simplest to do but also the easiest to forget. Throughout the course of the busy, loud, and messy day, always remember the point of Thanksgiving. Even if you might not be able to pull it off perfectly, the most important thing is to give thanks and truly enjoy the spirit of the holiday with the people you get to celebrate it within your humble home.

You just got the keys to your new home and can't wait to adorn your space with brand new furniture. That’s fantastic, especially if you already have specific items in mind or you’ve been eyeing a particular piece for such a long time. But if your budget is quite limited, especially after paying for closing and other costs associated with homeownership, buying everything brand new may not be the best option. Shopping for secondhand furniture is also a great way to furnish your home, and should be considered for a lot of reasons. Aside from being an inexpensive alternative, it is also helpful to the environment. It keeps perfectly good and reusable furniture out of landfills, minimizing ecological footprint. It’s also a great choice if you’re a lover of one-of-a-kind, high-quality vintage pieces for a fraction of the price. And even perfect if you love DIY and think you could breathe new life into a piece of furniture by refinishing. But of course, buying used furniture can sometimes be a gamble, especially if this is new to you. This is why we've compiled these tips and strategies to help you make sure you're getting a bargain for your buck. Just think of this as a 10-step guide for you to avoid lemons when it comes to used furniture, no matter where you shop! Before checking for good places where you can score used furniture and figuring out what pieces best suit your home, you need to know that there are certain items you should never buy used. Instead of going through the hassle of checking such pieces, it's better to splurge and invest in something new. Here are just some of the items to avoid: Used mattresses. These can be bad for your health as you don’t know how clean (or dirty) they are. There’s also no way to see all the dust mites, mold, bed bugs, and other health hazards that have already made their way into the fabric. Also, say no to secondhand crib mattresses for infants. Heavily used upholstered furniture. Saggy pillows and lumpy sofas are uncomfortable to sit on. And while they can be replaced, it can cost a lot to have done it professionally and will cost more trouble than they’re worth. Anything that smells. It can be difficult to get rid of bad smells, e.g. thirdhand smoke, and pet or urine odors can seep through many pieces of furniture, especially on upholstered items. Anything that’s high-priced. When the price tag of an item does not reflect its condition, and it may cost more money and time to make repairs to, then simply skip such an item.   You've got plenty of choices when it comes to buying used furniture. The only thing needed from you is to explore all your options to get a better chance of getting something good that will fit your home and budget. Some of the places to look for include: Thrift stores Goodwill or Habitat Restore Instagram or Facebook Marketplace Apps like Craigslist, LetGo, Carousell, NextDoor, and OfferUp Yard sales and estate sales Consignment shops Hotels and offices that are doing major renovations Auction sites   Instead of just eyeballing, shop with the exact dimensions and measurements in mind—both for the piece of furniture you're looking to buy and for the specific spot in your home where you might want to put it. This is because you aren’t shopping with a furniture catalog where dimensions and descriptions are given upfront. So whether it’s a chair, a dresser, or a bookshelf you’re looking to get, measure the item as well as the area you’ve picked out for it accurately before buying. Also, don’t forget to choose a few other areas in your home where you might be able to put the piece so you’ve got a fallback just in case you find that the furniture is a little bigger in your preferred spot.   Getting the most bang for your buck is probably your main goal in buying second hand furniture. By checking tags and labels, you can avoid spending money on something that's not worth it or something that you can also buy inexpensively. You want to know where the piece came from to help determine its quality. If ever you encounter a brand you’re not familiar with, it’s better to do some quick research before making a purchase.   When you find a piece you like, make sure to inspect the material it's made from. For any furniture made from solid wood, it’s better to choose hardwoods that last much longer over softwoods, which are easy to chip or deface and will sag and warp over time. Furniture made of hardwood, like oak or maple, is often more durable and indicates more solid construction. Also, it’s easy to restore their shine with a little polish and effort.   Aside from the material alone, take a look at the construction of the piece. Look for dovetailed joints rather than pieces that are cobbled together since those are signs of good quality. Focus on the integrity of the piece rather than on blemishes or surface imperfections such as shallow scratches and chipped paint, which can easily be fixed. While you're at it, investigate any signs of mold, water damage, termite, or other insect infestations.    Smelly furniture is definitely a deal-breaker, no matter how fantastic it would look at your place or how cheap you can get it. And while there are some smells you may be able to get out, other stenches can linger for too long or may even be difficult to remove, especially pet odors and smoke. So make sure you smell the piece before purchasing to save you the headache of removing the odors, which could take even more worth than you want to put in just to save a few dollars.   These pests can survive for many months even without feeding, so furniture can sit in any warehouse or facility for a long time and still have healthy bed bugs. Inspect cracks and corners for any dark spots, reddish streaks, old bug skins, or actual bugs. They can be tricky to spot, but once you notice any of those signs, make sure to skip the purchase. No matter how great of a deal it might seem, it's not worth the risk of bringing bed bugs into your home.   Because there's nothing worse than finding out that the piece you’ve come to love at the store doesn’t work after you bring it home, you have to test the item right then and there. A lot of used furniture is also sold as-is with no return policy, so there’s no way you can return it for any reason once you’ve purchased it. Just remember to ask about the store’s policies when it comes to testing out items at the store. And do it after you’ve already checked its quality and cleanliness. Sit on a chair or couch for a few minutes to make sure it’s comfortable and holds your weight. For cabinets, dressers, and similar pieces, open all the drawers to make sure they easily slide in and out and the handles don’t fall apart after a few uses. For tables, lean or push on them from an angle to make sure they’re steady on their feet.   Not all sellers are willing or able to help you carry and deliver the secondhand items you purchased, which means it's critical you make a plan on how you’ll get it home. The good thing is that many stores will hold your merchandise for a few days to give you time to pick it up. If that’s the case, make sure your vehicle can handle the furniture piece you’re buying, and bring help in getting the item in your vehicle. If you prefer a rental especially if the item wouldn’t fit in any of our vehicles, just calculate the costs to make sure the total will still be way less than buying new.

Do you use subcontractors or a third-party to handle and deliver my belongings? Before you work with a mover, you need to know how they operate and if a different company will actually be doing the loading, transporting, and unloading of your belongings. This is because while many moving companies have their team, some movers act only as brokers and subcontract their services to a third party. They outsource their services to companies they have partnerships with, including local movers who have purchased their own trucks for transport. Some moving contractors are more experienced than others, so it won't hurt to make sure that the third-party movers are a team of qualified professionals that are up to the task. If the broker company uses several contractors, politely ask for a complete list. See if you can also meet the actual movers face to face before the relocation date. This might be helpful to avoid miscommunication that could cause delays and incur additional costs and fees on moving day.   Is your crew covered by worker's compensation insurance? Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance that pays for medical expenses and lost wages if employees are injured on the job. At first glance, whether or not the employees have workers’ compensation may not seem like something that should concern you. However, in case the company doesn’t provide proper insurance to their movers and one of them got hurt on your property or an accident occurs during the move, you could be held liable and you may have to cover for the injuries.   How long will the move take? Any professional and experienced moving company would know how long your moving situation should take. They will give estimates of when your things are likely to arrive, taking into account any possible delays surrounding that date or weather conditions.  The movers will offer to deliver on a particular date for interstate moves. Just remember that it isn't considered a guaranteed delivery date if it was not put in writing. Long distance moves, on the other hand, almost always involve a delivery window rather than an exact delivery date. Make sure to ask for their delivery window policies in detail so you can plan ahead on how much to pack on your personal luggage.   How do you handle disputes or claims? Another thing you might want to inquire about is their policy for resolving complaints or claims against them. It's also important to know how they deal with disputes and minor conflicts. A good moving company will be willing to give you a history of complaints and claims, and whether or not they were resolved satisfactorily for both parties. It also won’t hurt to ask how many claims and complaints they’ve had, and depending on the numbers, might be a good or bad indication of their incident record.    What modes of payment do you accept? Moving is stressful and expensive. Hiring movers, buying packing supplies, and signing up for moving insurance, can all amount to a hefty bill. This is why reputable companies usually accept credit cards or cashier checks, while some moving companies also offer discounts to customers who pay with cash upfront. The key is to ask about their payment options before hiring them so you'll be prepared when the bill comes. Be clear about the amount that is due on delivery versus previously paid amounts. Moreover, be wary if the movers you’re considering are requesting only cash payments, which could be a red flag for rogue movers.   What is your company's cancellation policy? Even if there’s only a sliver of a chance you’re canceling your move due to whatever reason, it’s good to understand your moving company’s cancellation policy before you hire them and sign any contracts. Moving companies usually have a cancellation time during which you can cancel your move free of charge, while a few might even let you cancel the day before your relocation date without a penalty.  However, many movers will also keep all or part of your deposit if you cancel within a certain amount of time before your move, and there might even be extra cancellation fees. It’s crucial that you find out what your options are in case you need to cancel. You also would want to inquire further whether you will be reimbursed if the movers fail to perform your move or to appear on the agreed moving date.   Do you offer any promotions and discounts? Since moving isn't exactly cheap, it never hurts to ask about any discounts and promotions the company is currently offering to be able to save money. Here are some of the most common moving deals and discounts where you might be eligible: Student discounts Senior discounts Law enforcement, teacher, first responder, and military discounts Membership discounts  Off-season discounts or seasonal discounts Moving coupons Some companies are even pretty vocal about these discounts. Simply ask the moving service, especially when you’re shopping around for the best prices.   16. Do you have any questions for me? Finally, don't let the interview end without the moving representative asking you questions. If they are an exceptional company that will do their best to perform your relocation successfully, they will think of asking for any relevant details that you might have forgotten to share or mention. They will also go out of their way to give you tips and suggestions to help you prepare and plan accordingly. These little things are huge positive signs that you have found the best movers for you.   Bottom Line A huge part of a move's success depends on careful planning and attention to detail, which includes the moving company you hire. This list of questions may seem long, but it can guide you in identifying a bad mover from a reputable one. For starters, the latter will be more than willing and able to answer all these questions satisfactorily. Use this as a guide when you’re interviewing potential movers and hopefully, you can make the right decision.

Once you've bought a home, there’s nothing that could be more stressful than moving. This is why it's a no-brainer to hire a professional moving company to help you with your valuable possessions, especially if you’re making a long-distance or interstate move and you’ve got bulky items to bring with you. Choosing a mover, however, is the tricky part since there are thousands of companies out there that provide a wide range of services. It’s a very important decision to make and could mean the difference between having a smooth relocation and a complete disaster. This is when asking the right questions proves to be crucial. You want to make sure you hire a dependable and trustworthy company that will save you a lot of time, money, and headaches. Especially if it's the first time you have hired a mover, here’s a great list of questions you could ask them during the interview so you can easily narrow down your choices. Make sure you get as many of these questions answered in any form of writing. Such precautions will help you identify any red flags and hopefully hire a reputable company that will deliver.   1. Is your company properly licensed? The first thing in your checklist to make sure you choose a trustworthy moving company is to determine whether they are properly licensed. The good thing is that it shouldn't be hard to check. All professional interstate moving companies should have a license number issued by the United States Department of Transportation—their MC # and USDOT #—which should be listed at the bottom of their home page. Likewise, you can also check for the company’s license number and even complaint history at the USDOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration database.  On the other hand, local moving companies who only relocate customers within the same state are only regulated by the state, which means they should hold a state license. Just remember that each state has titsown set of moving regulations and license requirements.  Knowing that the moving company is legitimate and reputable will guarantee that they’re compliant with the federal laws, which means it’s highly likely that the move is in good hands and your items will be handled safely.   2. Can you show referrals or recommendations? To avoid moving scams and rogue movers, it's also best to hire movers that have been in business for a few years. And part of your homework is to check for references and recommendations. See if they can show you letters of recommendation from past customers. The moving company representative should be able to provide you with all the information you need should you ask for it.  In this day and age, it’s also easier to check for testimonials, reviews, and ratings on their website. There are also numerous forums and sites where people share their experiences about moving companies. You may be able to know if the movers overpromised, underdelivered or overcharged their customers, although it might be helpful to take any reviews with a grain of salt. Don’t forget to also ask friends and neighbors for recommendations, as word-of-mouth is still one of the most reliable routes to finding a trustworthy mover.    3. What kind of liability coverage does your company provide? It's also crucial to ask what coverage options a moving company offers before deciding to hire them. This is to make sure your belongings are covered in case of a mishap during the relocation. According to FMCSA, interstate movers are required by federal law to offer two types of liability options: thll Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Under Full Value Protection, your mover is liable for the replacement value of lost or damaged goods in your entire shipment. For instance, if any of your articles are lost, destroyed, or damaged during the move, the FVP requires the moving company to either have the item repaired so that it’s in the same condition as it was before being damaged, replace it with something similar, or give you cash to replace it. The Released Value Protection, on the other hand, is the most economical protection available since it is offered at no additional charge. However, the protection for this option is minimal. The mover assumes liability for no more than 60 cents per pound per item. You also have the option to purchase full-value protection or insurance from a third-party insurance company, especially if the mover doesn’t offer it. But before purchasing insurance, the FMCSA recommends checking your homeowner’s insurance policy as well to make sure you’re not already covered. Moreover, ask to see the moving company’s own proof of insurance, which they should be able to show you if they are legitimate and licensed.   4. Do you offer an in-person or in-home estimate? There are several ways you can get a moving estimate: over the phone, online, or in-person. However, any moving company can only give you rates by phone and not the actual estimates. Getting an in-person or in-home estimate, where a sales staff or a representative goes to your place to perform an on-site virtual estimate, is still the best idea. This way, the mover will see all the items that need to be moved, and can determine any complications that might make the relocation more difficult and more costly. They should be able to check ahead of time the big items that need to be shipped and any potential problems for the moving truck and the crew, such as the presence of low-hanging tree branches, elevators, parking situation, etc. They should also discuss with you any potential problems with the delivery at your new place.  Ask the company what their rate is, and keep in mind that most companies will provide a rate per pound and a distance rate, instead of based on cubic feet. Otherwise, some companies might charge a per hour rate for short distance moves. The moving company must give you an estimate in writing and provide you with a copy. It should state the name, contact details and address of the company. It should also include all the charges, the payment method, and the agreed delivery dates or time frame of the move. Both you and the mover must sign it to make it an agreement.   5. Which services do you offer? Each professional moving company has a unique menu of services you can choose from when you're planning your move. Here’s a shortlist of a few of the services that they might offer: Packing and unpacking Loading and unloading Custom crating Transportation for specialty items like pianos and hot tubs Temporary storage Furniture assembly/disassembly Appliance disconnection Vehicle shipping Cleaning services Good, full-service movers will do these things automatically as part of their services, but you may need to confirm exactly what services are provided with smaller firms. Sometimes these services are also known as accessorial charges. This is why you should never assume a moving company offers a service you need. And if any of these services are crucial for your move, you should make sure that service is provided by the company you might hire.   6. Are there additional fees? When do these fees apply? After getting your moving estimate and clearing up concerns about which services the movers will cover, don't forget to ask about potential additional charges. The last thing you’d want is to be surprised by a series of extra charges that showed up in your bill once the move is completed.  Ask the moving company what additional moving services you should expect to be charged for, and when these fees apply. Don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you can, such as but not limited to: Is there a charge for stairs? Is there a charge for heavy or oversized items? Is there an extra charge for moving things from a basement or from a garage? Do you charge extra on wet moving days? (They might have to pull out a few tarpaulins.) Is there a charge for more than 2 floors up or for moving things from the attic? Will there be an extra charge for travel time to and from my house? Will you charge me if the building elevator is out of order or  missing in action? Will you charge me for refueling costs? (Especially for long distance moves) Do you charge a long carry fee if the crew cannot park the truck close to the entrance of my home? Just take note that every moving company has its own way of evaluating the fees associated with each move.This is why it’s imperative that you speak with the company representative about all possible hidden fees and charges in advance.    7. Do you have the necessary moving equipment? This might seem obvious to ask, but you want to be assured that they have the proper moving equipment that is required for your specific type of move or situation. You also want to be certain that the professionals will be able to protect your items and move them safely to your new home.  Aside from having the right size of moving truck, they also need to have the proper furniture and appliance dollies, moving blankets, furniture sliders, and all the necessary packing supplies. Special hoisting equipment or more heavy-duty dollies may also be needed for bulky furniture, household appliances, and other extra large items, like a grand piano or a pool table. Ensuring that the moving staff you hire have the necessary moving equipment will not only make the move less complex and dangerous, but will also help them complete the job as scheduled.   8. Are there things you prefer not to move? If this is the first time you're hiring a professional moving company, you should be aware that there are a number of items that some movers won’t allow on the truck. They may refuse to move certain things, including photos and photo albums, fragile family heirlooms, plants, flat-screen televisions, fine art, and other valuables. They believe the risk of losing or damaging those precious belongings is too great. This is why it’s important to ask for specific things the movers would prefer not to move so you can plan ahead, pack and bring those items yourself. Likewise, hazardous materials such as fertilizer, paints, aerosols, pesticides, propane tanks, batteries, pool chemicals, and others are absolutely out of the question because these things are flammable or potentially explosive.

Selecting and buying furniture for your beautiful abode, whether it be a sofa, dining table or any other piece, is no doubt fun and exciting. Especially if you're a first-time homeowner who finally has the liberty to choose whatever furniture you want to fill your private space with.  But before you give your home that desired Pinterest-inspired look or buy an item that’s similar from what you’ve seen online or from your favorite home decor magazine, keep in mind that furniture-buying can also be stressful and overwhelming. It’s probably the next commitment (and investment) you have to make after buying your home since you’ll be using the items for quite a number of years, so it is definitely a huge deal.  Unless you want to be stuck with pieces of furniture that don't work for the room or any of your space, steer clear of these top six common mistakes before buying. After all, we all just want to end up with great pieces that will not only make our home beautiful but also make our life more comfortable.   1. Forgetting to measure everything in your space before buying. The last thing you want is to end up with an expensive piece of furniture that won't fit through your front door and through the rest of your doorways and walkways. However, it’s one of the most common mistakes many homeowners make when buying furniture.  So here are four crucial things you need to do before bringing home any piece:  Measure the height, width, and depth of the furniture you’re considering and see if it’ll fit where you want it. Measure the dimensions of the room where you want to place the furniture, whether it’s the living room, kitchen, bedroom, or even home office. It might be easier if you map out your potential new furniture arrangements. One good method is to stick some masking tape or painter’s tape on the floor to help you visualize the dimensions of the new piece you’re considering. Check if it will fit the doorways and door frames of the room, the narrow part of the hallways, and even staircases and elevators—anything through which you'll be moving your new furniture. Last but not least, add some space to your measurements for people who are carrying the piece, especially if they have to move it through a right-angle corner of a hallway or at a narrower part of a room. Also, don’t forget to write down all your measurements! Forgetting to do these things can be costly, especially if you have to foot the bill to return a piece to the store. Also keep in mind that furniture pieces like sofas and dining tables can look deceptively small in a showroom but could end up big for your home. So measure everything (and double-check your measurements) before you hit the stores to avoid falling in love with furniture that will never fit your space.   2. Not paying attention to scale. Aside from measuring everything, you also need to consider the scale of the product and how much space is needed around it before you bring it home. You want a piece to fit into the space without blocking entryways or foot traffic, or without people needing to squeeze between tightly-packed pieces to be able to have access or move around parts of the home. Likewise, keep in mind how your room will work as a whole and try to keep things in proportion. For an instance, too small a rug can actually make a room look smaller, while a bulky, oversized sofa can be too dominating or overwhelming. Always consider how a particular piece of furniture would go well with the things alongside it rather than outshine everything else.   3. Buying without thinking how your furniture will fit your lifestyle. Another mistake of many new homeowners is buying furniture without taking their lifestyle into consideration. Even if you have chosen the chicest pieces to adorn your home, if they don't work with your lifestyle or family circumstances they could only end up bringing you headaches. For example, if you have children or pets, or planning to have them as you grow your family in the foreseeable future, you might want to select furniture with durable fabrics or upholstery that will resist everyday spills, odors, sharp claws and even muddy paws. Moreso, you might want to think twice before buying a glass coffee table with hard edges, as it could become a hazard especially to toddlers. If you’re someone who loves to host dinner parties among families and friends (although things may be quite different for the meantime due to the pandemic), you may want to select a dining table with an extra leaf.  Whatever your lifestyle is, it’s important to consider if the furniture you’re buying will hold up to those uses. Always ask yourself questions like “How will I use this piece of furniture?” or “What about my family circumstances?” This way, there won’t be a need to waste thousands of dollars because you need to replace your things after only a couple of months.   4. Not being realistic about the maintenance. In relation to the lifestyle subject discussed above, you need to be realistic about the normal wear and tear the furniture will be subject to, and assess your willingness to clean and maintain it yourself or pay for professional cleaning instead. Even if you have the budget to buy high-end pieces, they may require more care than what you have anticipated.  Buy accordingly and know the type of care needed on each piece of furniture, which is highly dependent on the materials and finishes. Be familiar with how it can be cleaned, and what are the best (and worst) products to clean it with. There are a variety of care products such as waxes, varnishes, polishes, and even fabric cleaners, and many were designed to work on certain materials only. Some cleaning products can also be harsh and easily ruin materials like leather and genuine hardwood. So be sure to know what you are getting into, and only consider a certain material if you feel you're up to the task of keeping on top of its maintenance.    5. Prioritizing style over comfort. With so many beautiful styles and designs to choose from for your sofa, bed, cabinets, or even dining table, it's easier for you to get carried away and buy something that looks great and stylish. But no matter how much you want your home to look like it’s come out from a page of an interior design magazine, remember to be practical and always choose comfort over beauty. No matter how attractive, never get caught up in the aesthetics of any piece. The furniture you choose should be fit for everyday use, and should be both comfortable and serve the purpose it’s intended for, not to mention that you’re going to live with it for years to come.   6. Buying everything at once or getting into impulse buys. You've spent months searching for your dream home. Now that you’ve got your house keys, don’t spend a few hours (or minutes) buying new furniture just because the empty spaces feel lonely. Or maybe you’re already fed up with your old furniture and want everything to be replaced with new ones as soon as possible. No matter how tempting these situations are, don’t rush into buying. It’s a mistake that could eventually lead to overspending because the pieces you bought could end up neither working for your needs and lifestyle nor matching your personality.  Remember to plan ahead, think it through, check the measurements, assess your lifestyle, check the fabrics, colors, or materials, and take your time instead of making any impulsive purchases. While getting the perfect piece of furniture may not be possible every time, as long as you’ve seriously considered it and you’re still in love with it even after you’ve slept on the idea, then go ahead and add it to your beautiful home.

What drives up my home insurance costs? Why is my insurance premiums so high? If you're a new homeowner, this must be one of the many questions that have crossed your mind since you embarked on this new journey. Well, the location, construction, condition, and certain features of your home all play a significant part in how much your homeowner’s insurance costs will be. For buyers who are still house-hunting for their dream home, you need to be aware that some of the factors that will attract you to a particular home are also the ones that will make your premiums more expensive. Here are some of the home's features that may inevitably affect your homeowner’s insurance rates: 1. Age and construction of the home - One important factor that is being considered when insurers assess a home's risks is its build and structure. Older homes, even if they’re well-maintained, are generally more expensive to insure especially if it’s made of wood. Homes with wooden frames are more likely to suffer from fire compared to concrete or brick homes, so the risk is definitely higher. This is also the reason why homeowner’s insurance on historic homes is often more expensive. Older homes also often pose many structural issues so insurance rates could be increased 2. Location - Aside from the general construction of your home, where you live has a big impact on your homeowner's insurance costs. If you live in an area of the country that is more prone to experiencing natural disasters—hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, you name it—the more expensive it will be to insure your dwelling. Specifically, those who live in hurricane-prone areas may also need to purchase additional flood insurance. Likewise, you may also face more expensive insurance premiums if you live in a neighborhood that have more claims, particularly because of rampant theft, crime, and break-ins. You’ll also have higher premiums if you live in the country which is too far away from emergency services. How to keep costs down: If you live in a risky area that has a greater chance of experiencing a natural disaster, you can minimize your insurance costs by purchasing a home built to withstand the elements. In Florida for example, residents prefer to live in a concrete block structure (CBS) home rather than a wood-frame home to reduce their insurance premiums. The presence of home alarm systems and surveillance cameras can also make a difference if you live in a neighborhood with a high theft rate. 3. Swimming Pools and hot tubs - Swimming pools are a great way to relax and cool off especially during the summer season. However, they are also potentially dangerous, especially to children, because of the possibility of drowning and other related injuries. Insurance companies even consider pools to be “attractive nuisances” because of possible pool-related lawsuits. Pool owners will need to purchase additional liability protection so that they can protect themselves against possible pool-related lawsuits. This liability protection can lead to high insurance costs. Additional features like a diving board or a slide could even mean higher insurance premiums. Similar to pools, hot tubs are also vulnerable to lawsuits so insurance companies will increase the coverage you need for your home, which would lead to higher premiums. How to keep costs down: Installing door alarm systems, safety perimeter fences and locked gates around the pool might help keep the liability protection costs down. 4. Trampolines - This popular recreational feature can be found in thousands of backyards in the US. But the catch: it also means higher insurance premiums for homeowners. It is because injuries while using trampolines are very common, often involving children. A homeowner's insurance policy could provide coverage for protection in any trampoline-related claims provided that certain safety precautions are in place, especially if there’s an enclosed safety net installed around the feature to protect anyone using it from falling off. Other recreational things that can be expensive to insure include large play structures, park equipment, and skate ramps. 5. Jewelry and other expensive items - Keeping a lot of expensive pieces of jewelry and other big-ticket items, including high-end watches, wine collections, and musical instruments, can lead to extra home insurance premiums. 6. Paintings and antiques - Your treasured collection of antiques, paintings, sculptures, and other forms of fine art can be very difficult to replace. These most-prized possessions actually make it hard for any insurance company to be willing to insure it. 7. Fireplace/wood stove - Are you one of those homeowners who still own a wood-burning stove? It can be a cost-efficient alternative to heating your home, but they are a big fire hazard. These stoves are more likely to start a fire than any other modern appliances, especially when left unattended. In the eyes of many insurance companies, the risk of fire damage is increased so they apply a surcharge. Having a wood-burning stove in your home means you may be saving money on heating, but definitely spending more on insurance. How to keep costs down: Installing smoke alarms, purchasing fire extinguishers to be situated in strategic locations around the home, and hiring a licensed technician to perform routine maintenance on the wood stove can help you get the best possible price for your insurance. 8. Oil-based heating - An oil-based heating system, which is commonly found in many older homes, can mean a lot of trouble for many insurers. Having an oil tank on your property means having a large amount of highly flammable substance that can cause massive fire and environmental damage. Insurance companies mostly prefer electric heat pumps or forced-air furnaces. Converting to these safer types of heating may just be the key to lowering your insurance premiums. 9. Home-based business and keeping your business inventory - If you're running an in-home business, such as a daycare, accounting, bed and breakfast, etc., you’ll have more at stake since extra people are coming in and out of your home. That means there’s a greater chance that someone could be injured. Likewise, you could face higher insurance premiums if you’re keeping your business inventory on your property. Both your personal possessions and business property are susceptible to being lost, damaged, or stolen if some thieves broke in. It’s applicable to those who own a craft store or an online selling business. 10. Condition of the home's roof - Roofing is another big ticket item that can have a major impact on a homeowner’s insurance premiums. Wood shakes and shingles can be a stunning addition to the exterior of your home and can give it a unique look. However, they are also one of the least reliable types of roofs because they are more prone to damage from rot or mold, more vulnerable to weather hazards, and will not resist fire. If your home has this type of roof you can expect to pay more for your insurance. The older and more damaged your roof is, the more expensive your insurance can get. As much as possible, choose a house with a roof that best fits your geographical location, especially if you live in hurricane-prone areas. 11. Finished basement - Despite the fact that it adds more livable square footage to a home, a finished basement can also drive up costs because it has a higher chance of getting damaged in case of a flood, a burst pipe, or clogged and backed-up sewage. Dogs - Well, they're not necessarily a house feature, but your pet dog could also be the reason for your increased insurance premiums. If your dog attacks and bites someone on or near your property, the injured person may file a claim against your home insurance policy. Your premiums will likely increase because you are liable for the damages. It’s especially true if it’s from a breed that is considered aggressive, such as pit bulls or Rottweilers. Be prepared to give your dog(s) training classes to avoid unruly and aggressive dog behavior.