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Moving is stressful enough. You shouldn't have to worry about being scammed by a moving company. To protect yourself from being scammed by an unscrupulous mover, it's important to be aware of some red flags. Here are a few things to watch out for:

The mover does not perform an on-site inspection. Your household items should be glanced over and an estimate given in person.  This should never be done over the phone or online. A reputable moving company will always come to your home to inspect your belongings.

The mover will not provide a written estimate.  Never should the cost of moving be determined after loading. A written estimate is essential to protect yourself from hidden charges.

The moving company requires cash. This goes for large deposits too.  Legitimate moving companies will always accept credit cards or checks.

The mover asks you to sign a blank document. If you do this, expect to pay for hidden charges after the move.

The mover does not provide you with a copy of the, "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move" booklet and a copy of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's (FMCSA), Ready to Move brochure. These booklets contain important information about your rights and responsibilities as a mover.

The mover's website does not have a local address. And, there's no information about their registration or insurance. A legitimate moving company will have a physical address and can provide information about their registration and insurance.

The mover claims all goods are covered by their insurance. This is not necessarily true. Make sure you get and understand the terms of the mover's insurance before you sign any contracts.

On moving day, "the company-owned truck is broken down" and a rental truck arrives. Unfortunately, this red flag may be too late to react but it's a sign that the mover may not be legitimate.

The mover claims that you have more belongings than estimated. This could be an attempt to charge you more money.

If you see any of these red flags, it's best to walk away from the moving company and find a more reputable one. You can always check the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's (FMCSA) website by clicking here, to see if the company you're working with is registered and insured. We also recommend you read the moving company's reviews 

It's a worthwhile investment when selling or simply to make your property more attractive. Here are some ways to add curb appeal to your home:

Landscaping: A well-maintained and thoughtfully landscaped front yard can have a significant impact. Plant colorful flowers, shrubs, and trees. Define flower beds with mulch or stone borders for a polished look.

Lawn Care: Keep your lawn healthy and neatly manicured. Regular mowing, weeding, and fertilizing will make a big difference.

Garden Features: Add decorative elements like garden benches, birdbaths, or a trellis. These can create focal points and add character to your yard.

Symmetry and Balance: Symmetry in landscaping and decor can be visually appealing. Pairing matching planters, light fixtures, or landscaping features on either side of the entryway can create a balanced look.

Colorful Front Door: A fresh coat of paint in a bold, inviting color for your front door can make a strong statement. It's an easy and cost-effective way to boost curb appeal.

Quality Hardware: Upgrading your door hardware, house numbers, and mailbox can add a touch of elegance. Choose styles that complement the overall design of your home.

Well-Defined Walkways: Ensure that your walkways are in good repair and create a clear path to the front door. You can add interest with stone or brick pavers.

Outdoor Lighting: Install outdoor lighting to highlight your home's best features. Path lights, uplights, and entryway sconces can create a warm  and inviting atmosphere in the evenings.

Window Boxes: Window boxes filled with colorful flowers can add charm and character to your home's exterior. Choose flowers that complement your home's color scheme.

Clean Windows: Sparkling clean windows not only improve curb appeal but also let more natural light into your home.

Front Porch: The front porch is a focal point. Furnish it with comfortable seating, plants, and decorative items to create a welcoming space.

Roof and Gutters: Ensure your roof is in good condition and your gutters are clean and well-maintained. These details are often noticed by potential buyers.

Repaint or Siding Repair: A fresh coat of paint or repairs to your home's siding can give it a renewed and well-maintained appearance.

Clutter Control: Keep the front yard free of clutter. Remove any items that don't enhance the visual appeal, such as old furniture or toys.

Fences and Gates: If you have a fence, make sure it's in good condition and freshly painted or stained. A decorative gate can also add elegance.

Outdoor Art: Select outdoor art or sculptures that match your home's style. This can serve as a unique focal point.

Porch Ceiling: Paint the porch ceiling a soft blue, a tradition known as "haint blue" in the South. It's believed to repel insects and bring good luck.

Pressure Washing: Use a pressure washer to clean driveways, sidewalks, and the exterior of your home. This can remove years of built-up grime.

Seasonal Decor: Change out seasonal decorations for holidays or special occasions to keep your home looking fresh and inviting.

Maintain the Mailbox: Upgrade your mailbox or simply ensure it's in good condition and clean.

Remember that curb appeal isn't just about individual elements; it's about creating a cohesive and inviting look for your home's exterior. Making these improvements can not only enhance your home's appearance but also increase its value and appeal to potential buyers.

A well-prepared and decluttered home is more likely to attract potential buyers and make a positive first impression. Here are some tips to help:

Start Early: Begin the decluttering process well in advance of listing your home. It can take longer than you think to go through your belongings.

Room-by-Room Approach: Tackle one room at a time. Start with areas that tend to accumulate the most clutter, like the kitchen and living room.

Declutter First, Then Clean: Before deep cleaning, remove all unnecessary items from the room. It's easier to clean and helps potential buyers see the space more clearly.

Sort and Organize: Create three piles: keep, donate/sell, and throw away. Be ruthless in your decision-making. If you haven't used or needed something in a while, it might be time to part with it.

Minimize Personal Items: Buyers want to envision their lives in the house, so pack away personal photos, knick-knacks, and family heirlooms. This helps create a neutral canvas.

Clear Countertops and Surfaces: In the kitchen and bathrooms, clear countertops of small appliances, toiletries, and personal items. This gives the impression of more space.

Closets and Cabinets: Organize closets and storage areas. Buyers will look inside, and they should appear spacious and well-organized.

Furniture Arrangement: Arrange furniture to maximize space and flow. Consider removing bulky or unnecessary pieces to create an open and inviting feel.

Depersonalize: Neutralize colors and decor where possible. A fresh coat of paint in a neutral color can make a big difference.

Curb Appeal: Don't forget the outside! Ensure the front yard, porch, and entryway are clean and inviting. Consider adding potted plants for a welcoming touch.

Maintenance: Fix any visible issues such as leaky faucets, broken light fixtures, or cracked tiles. Small repairs can make a big difference in the perception of the home's condition.

Staging: Consider professional staging to make the home look its best. Staged homes often sell faster and for higher prices.

Deep Cleaning: Once the clutter is gone, thoroughly clean the entire home. Pay attention to details like baseboards, light fixtures, and windows.

Final Walk-Through: Before listing, walk through your home as if you were a potential buyer. Look for any remaining clutter or areas that need improvement.

Photography: When you're ready to list, hire a professional photographer to capture the cleaned, decluttered, and staged space. High-quality photos can make a big difference online. 

Remember a well-prepared and decluttered home is more likely to attract potential buyers and make a positive first impression. It allows buyers to see the space's potential and helps me market your property more effectively.