Important “Moving Information” for Everyone

I received this in an email from a company called the Move Advocate.

How to Avoid a Moving Horror Story

• Few things are scarier than a long distance move. We have all either heard or experienced a moving horror story at least once. And for those who have experienced it you know it can feel like you are trapped in a Halloween haunted house. Here are some helpful tips that you can utilize to minimize any scary situations in the future instead of just hiding your eyes behind your hands and anxiously waiting to get through it. 

• Don’t get a quote over the phone or internet: A big mistake that consumers make when planning their move is obtaining a quote over the phone or the internet. Any quote obtained in this manner is a non-binding quote. The only way to obtain a guaranteed or binding quote is to have a visual survey of your household goods by a reputable mover. If you choose to accept a quote over the phone or internet you are setting yourself up for a nasty scenario when the mover shows up at your new home and demands more money. 
• Don’t wait too long to line up a mover: Allowing time for a visual survey, receiving a written and binding quote, and reserving a truck for your move takes a lead time of 4-6 weeks. Although moves can be arranged in a shorter period of time, many consumers find that their choices are limited by availability, especially in the busy summer months. In our current real estate market many homes are taking longer to sell, but once sold are closing very quickly. The time to obtain estimates for your move is before your home sells so that you are prepared when it does.

Relocation wants and needs  

• Don’t misrepresent what you are moving: It is very important to show the surveyor or estimator everything you are planning to move. If you forget to show items in a basement, garage, attic, or off-site storage unit and then add those items at time of pick-up, your estimate will no longer be binding. In the same vein, if you commit to packing your own items but don’t have time to finish, the van line will pack your items and charge you for the service. If you are uncertain of whether you will be taking something, or are not sure if you will have time to pack everything, ask the surveyor to put the items or service in the estimate. If you decide not to take something, or do not require the packing, the cost will be adjusted downward.
  
• Don’t agree to paying a deposit up front: Reputable movers do not ask for payment up front to reserve trucks or dates. This is a classic red flag in moving. A reputable mover will expect payment upon delivery.
   
• Don’t select a mover based upon price rather than reputation and service: If a mover gives you a price that is significantly lower than other movers it is likely that you are being low-balled. If a surveyor has underestimated your weight in order to give you a lower price you may find on moving day that the moving truck does not have enough room for your shipment. This is called an overflow. An overflow means that your items will not all travel together, will not all arrive at the same time, and will generally just cause you a big hassle. Another way to lower cost is to compromise service. Look for a competitive bid from a professional mover who is certified and reputable. Although price is an important factor, don't base your decision on price alone.

If you know of someone who may be planning a MOVE in the FUTURE, please pass this on.  And remember to give me a call or email me if you are thinking of buying or selling your home, I’m here to help in any way I can.

The Move Advocate works with the nation’s most reputable movers and can arrange for multiple and binding quotes from quality service providers. A dedicated coach will answer questions and be an advocate throughout the move process to assure that your clients' moves are the best they’ll ever make. Call them today at 800.617.1918 to discuss your moving needs and to obtain multiple binding quotes at no cost and with no obligation.

What have you learned in moving?  Let us know below.

Why is your life style so important?

IMPORTANT: If you or someone you know is interested in buying or selling a home in the Palm Desert Area, try searching properties on the same Desert Area MLS Realtor’s use, or give me a call….or visit my website at Palm Springs Homes and Estates. I will be happy to give you or your referral my “red carpet service.” After the sale, I will send you a $50 Gift Certificate towards dinner in a fabulous Palm Springs Area Restaurant so you can celebrate!

Brought to You By Your Favorite Realtor
Nancy Hankin