Tag Archive for: Christina M. Keller

When it comes to moving, you have two options: Do-it-yourself (DIY) or hire professionals. Both have their pros and cons, and it’s important to weigh them before making that final decision. In this article, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of DIY moving.

DIY Moving

Is doing everything yourself really all it’s cracked up to be? There are limits, yes, but knowing them and knowing if you have the ability to pursue various DIY tasks, like moving, could benefit you as well as your pocketbook.

Pros of DIY Moving

One of the main benefits of DIY moving is cost savings. Hiring professional movers can be expensive, especially if you have many possessions or are moving long-distance. By rolling up your sleeves and doing it yourself, you can save a significant amount of money. Maybe this is the third or fourth time you’re moving, and you’re practically a pro at this point.

Another perk of DIY moving is the control you have over the process. You can pack your belongings the way you want, especially over time (in most instances) and handle them with care. Depending on the nature of the transaction and timeline of the parties involved, you can also choose the most convenient time for the move and have flexibility in the schedule.

Cons of DIY Moving

One of the biggest drawbacks of DIY moving is the physical labor involved. Moving heavy furniture and boxes can be exhausting and time-consuming. It requires strength and stamina, while the risk of injury is a possibility as well. Furthermore, if you’re not physically capable or have health issues, DIY moving may not be an option at all.

Another disadvantage is the lack of professional expertise and equipment. Moving professionals have the experience and knowledge to handle fragile items and navigate through difficult spaces (or at least reputable ones should!). This is what movers do, year-round. They also have the right tools and equipment to make the process more efficient. Without these, you may risk damaging your belongings or injuring yourself.

DIY moving can be a cost-effective and flexible option for those who are physically capable and have the time and energy to handle the procedure. However, it’s important to consider the physical labor involved and the lack of professional expertise and equipment. For a smoother and less stressful experience, hiring professionals may be worth the investment.

Hiring Professionals

One popular option that many people consider is hiring professionals to handle their move. While this may come with a cost, there are several advantages that make it a popular choice. 

Pros of Hiring Professionals

One of the main advantages of hiring professionals for your move is the access to their professional expertise and experience. Professional movers have the knowledge and skills to handle fragile items, navigate through difficult spaces, and ensure that your belongings are transported safely. They are trained in proper packing and loading techniques, and can efficiently handle the logistics of the entire operation. The keyword there is trained. By opting for professionals, you can have peace of mind knowing that your move is in capable hands.

Another benefit of hiring professionals is the time and energy savings it affords. Moving can be an exhausting and time-consuming process, especially if you have a lot of possessions or are moving over a great distance. Though, moving over short distances can be tiresome too. By hiring professionals, you can focus on other important tasks related to your move, such as setting up utilities or transferring your address, while leaving the “heavy lifting” to the movers. This is sure to reduce stress and ensure a smoother transition to your new home.

Keep in mind however, that not all moving companies are created equal. While some may pack up your items, others may not. Realistically, it’s best to have everything boxed up and ready to be carried out the door by the time the moving company arrives. Additionally, it’s vitally important to ask key questions before hiring a moving company to ensure you’re on the same page.

Cons of Hiring Professionals

One of the drawbacks of hiring professionals is the cost involved. Professional movers can be expensive, especially if you own a larger home or are moving over a significant distance. The cost will depend on factors such as the square footage of your home, the distance of your move and the services you require. It’s important to consider your budget and weigh the cost against the benefits provided by moving professionals.

Another potential deterrent is the lack of control over the process. When you hire professionals, you’re relying on them to handle your things and ensure their safe arrival at their new destination. While even the most esteemed moving companies take great care in their work, there’s always a risk of damage or loss. It’s important to do your research and choose a trusted and dependable moving company to minimize this risk. Do you need moving insurance? Though most moving companies are insured, this would be something to look into as well. You might need to protect various items over and above what the mover’s insurance policy would cover.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re taking the move upon yourself or hiring a moving company, decluttering is essential. “Decluttering is key when selling your home,” expresses Christina M. Keller, REALTOR® with Realty Network Group. “Before the home goes on the market, a homeowner needs to begin cleaning and eliminating waste. Buyers need a clear vision of how their possessions will fill the space. Removing excess furnishings enables them to image the home as their own, without distractions. After an agreement is made between the parties, the seller can use the moving process as another time to organize and prioritize what makes the move and what gets purged.”

Hiring professionals for your move can offer several conveniences, including professional expertise, time and energy savings in addition to peace of mind. However, it’s important to consider the associated costs and potential lack of control over this operation. Ultimately, the decision between DIY moving and hiring professional movers will depend on your specific needs, budget and preferences.

 

Here are two other articles you might find helpful:

Moving and downsizing when a pet is involved.

Launching a new business from home while moving.

Considering Selling? What Can Today’s Seller Expect?

As we enter the spring housing market, today’s seller finds themselves in a uniquely advantageous, yet complex, position. The past year was stellar for homebuying and selling, though many first-time buyers, often relying on FHA loans or smaller down payments, found themselves outbid by investors or more competitive buyers. Today’s market, marked by continued low inventory, has kept prices high and demand strong, although sellers still face questions about timing, pricing, and post-sale decisions.

Understanding the Seller’s Market in 2022

While it’s a clear seller’s market, potential sellers face concerns, particularly if they’ll need to purchase a new home after selling. Christina M. Keller, REALTOR® at Realty Network Group, notes that in northeastern Pennsylvania, sellers are generally in a favorable position, though some feel pressured to prepare their homes quickly and effectively. This rush, combined with the need for a new home post-sale, adds a layer of complexity and even hesitation for many.

New Trends in Home Sales

Aware of high demand, many of today’s sellers are opting to save on pre-sale upgrades. Where homeowners might have repainted, updated kitchens, or replaced floors in previous years, today’s sellers are finding that buyers are willing to take on these cosmetic changes themselves post-purchase. Keller observes, “Sellers are counting their savings, knowing buyers are willing to tackle projects post-settlement.” This trend aligns with the broader competitive landscape, where buyers are often just grateful to secure a property, even if it needs some work.

Buyers Ready to Compromise

Given the high level of competition, many buyers are forgoing requests for minor repairs or updates, choosing instead to purchase “as is.” This willingness to accept properties with minor issues can often be the deciding factor in competitive bidding, sometimes even outpacing higher offers. While this benefits sellers by expediting the sale and reducing pre-sale costs, it means buyers are finding fewer opportunities to negotiate on price.

Timing is Everything: Why April Might Be Ideal for Today’s Seller

For sellers looking for an optimal listing time, April might hold the key. Realtor.com pinpoints April 10-16 as an ideal week, citing a combination of high buyer interest and limited competition that often leads to quicker sales at higher prices. Similarly, Zillow’s data from 2021 suggests that late April (21-28) can provide the best conditions for a successful sale. Timing the market could help today’s sellers maximize their returns, especially in an environment where housing demand remains strong but inventory is slow to rebound.

April’s “Sweet Spot” for Today’s Seller

In sum, today’s seller is uniquely positioned to make the most of the spring market. With robust demand, limited competition, and a favorable timing window, listing in April could yield top dollar. For those contemplating a sale, acting in the next few weeks could capture high buyer interest and maximize profit, creating an ideal exit point in 2022’s dynamic housing market.