Five tips to know before you hire movers

Moving can be a stressful experience but hiring the right moving company can ensure a smooth transition. Check out the tips below on how to select the best company for you.
1. Do your research. Talk to friends and neighbors for recommendations and warnings. Research prospective moving companies on the Better Business Bureau's website. Call and ask how long they have been in business, how much experience their packers and drivers have, and, if necessary, if they're licensed for interstate transport.
2. License to drive. Verify the status of the moving company's licenses with the US DOT and State DOT (as appropriate). Check their credentials and make sure they offer liability insurance.
3. Get an in-home quote. A company that provides an estimate over the phone may then charge more on the day of the move by claiming that there was more inventory than expected. The Department of Transportation's Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires an interstate mover to give you an in-home estimate if your current home is 50 miles from the mover’s (or the agent’s) place of business. You’re entitled to get the full quote in writing, which should itemize all charges associated with the move.
4. Compare and save. When it comes to getting a fair quote, let market competition work for you.
5. A picture is worth a thousand words. A legitimate mover should inventory your property before the move to make sure nothing is lost, but photos of all valuable property provides extra protection if you need to file a claim.

Five Tips for a profitable yard sale

During the summer months, homeowners across the country host yard sales. Our tried-and-true tips will make your summer sale a financial success!

1. Advertise. Hang brightly colored signs around your neighborhood and remember to display signs in high traffic areas, even if it is a few miles from the actual sale. Revisit the signs the day before the sale and add balloons to attract attention. Don't forget to advertise on Facebook, Craig's List or even in a newspaper ad.
2. Plan ahead. Make your sale as convenient as possible for shoppers, this means a prompt start, plenty of change, even light bulbs, power strips and batteries on hand to assure customers electric items work properly.
3. The price is right. Realistically price your items, remember, it's a yard sale. Visit other sales prior to your own to get an idea of how to price your items.
4. Sell what sells. Sporting goods, toys, games and kitchen tools are popular buys, donate outdated clothing and discard any recalled items.
5. Curb appeal. Make your sale efficient and inviting. Everything should be clean and orderly with prices conveniently placed on the top of all items.

What not to do before buying a home

A lender will examine your debt-to-income ratio to qualify you for a mortgage. Debt-to-income ratio is the percentage of your gross monthly income, before taxes, that is reserved to pay down debt. If you're serious about buying a home avoid these common mistakes that will compromise the amount of your approved loan:

1. No new debt! Delay large purchases, this includes jewelry, vacations, appliances and especially vehicles. Hold off on buying a new vehicle, as a sizable monthly car payment can push the debt-to-income percentage over what lenders feel is a safe limit, and you may be denied the loan or have to settle for a smaller loan.
2. Do not co-sign on a loan for anyone else. Although you will not be making the payment, the lender still views this as your debt.
3. Don’t move money around. A lender will require you to supply bank statements for all your accounts during recent months. Any large deposits or withdrawals will be red flags to the lender, and may slow or inhibit the escrow. Changing banks is also unadvisable. Remember, the simpler your finances are, the better.
4. Avoid changing jobs. When you change jobs, it can be difficult for lenders to predict future earnings. Any major career changes, such as corporate employee to self-employed, should also be delayed. Remember, the lender will look two years back and average your income. Anything that will make that process difficult is a bad idea.
For more tips on the home buying process, please contact me.