Tag Archive for: Moving To Scottsdale

How to Find a Reputable Moving Company in Your Area

How to Find a Reputable Moving Company in Your Area

How to Find a Reputable Moving Company in Your Area

 

Finding a reputable moving company when you’re pressed for time and money can be a trying process. After all, if you’ve ever had to move quickly and on a budget, you may have fallen prey to rogue movers. These swindlers start by giving you a low-ball estimate without ever seeing the items you need them to move. Then, when they have your stuff packed up, they hold it hostage until you agree to pay a higher fee.

In situations like those, most people just want to have their property back where it belongs. So, in the end, they usually fork over the cash — even if they have to borrow it. In any case, the best way to combat these kinds of scams is to make sure they never happen. Rather than hiring the first movers that give you a good price, take the time to vet several candidates.

But hey, if you’re not sure how to find a reputable moving company in your area, there’s no reason to worry. These tips should help you get the ball rolling on your upcoming move!

Pro Tips for Finding a Reliable Moving Company

When looking for reputable movers in your city, it pays to have a professional in your corner. Luckily, that’s exactly who we consulted to get you these tips for moving. Having worked at an NYC moving company for many years, the General Manager at Oz Moving & Storage, Nancy Zafrani, had many insights to share. So we asked her what should be our first step in finding a responsible moving crew.

Compile a List of Candidates

According to Nancy, the first thing we need to start our list of potential candidates is the recommendations of the people we trust. So, if any of your friends or family have moved Recently, ask them about their experiences. If nothing else, that might give you enough information to cross a moving company off your list.

Another thing you could do is call local real estate agents and ask them if any companies have a particularly good — or bad — reputation. Between these check-ins and your basic Internet search, your list will start to grow before you know it.

To keep things organized, make sure to write down the full name of the companies you come across, as well as any DBA names they might have. Additionally, you’ll want to jot down the:

  • Company address and website
  • Its email and (local and toll-free) phone numbers
  • DOT and MC license numbers (which will help you vet them more thoroughly)

Lastly, you should try to find out how long the companies you’re looking into have been in business. As a rule of thumb, you shouldn’t work with companies that don’t have at least 10 years’ worth of experience under their belts. Once you have all that information, you’ll be ready to start crossing some of those businesses off your list.

Look Into the Moving Techniques

Now, it’s time to make some calls or, better yet, visit the company headquarters. During the initial conversation with the companies on your list, you’ll want to ask them about the materials (such as moving blankets) and the techniques they use. If you have any concerns about a specific piece of furniture in your home, ask how they would handle getting it out.

Additionally, you can ask to see the company’s vehicles. Many rogue movers have only magnetic signs attached to their trucks. That may be a signal that they’re not in the moving business all the time. Needless to say, you’ll be better off with companies that have permanently marked vehicles.

Ask for References

Before wrapping up the first conversation with all the different moving companies, ask to see some references. Any legitimate company should be able to provide you with at least three contacts of the people they have worked with. The clients they provide should have moved to your general area within the past three months.

Potentially shady companies may try to sneak in contacts of people who are associated with the business. However, you’ll probably be able to pick up on that during your conversation. If anything feels off, just cross that business from your list. In the end, you should have between three and five companies to choose from.

Get Quotes

Once you narrow down your list of potential movers, you should introduce some numbers into the game. Right off the bat, Nancy Zafrani says you shouldn’t do business with any company that will give you a definitive price without seeing the property.

On the one hand, some businesses do have algorithms that can help them calculate the approximate estimate without seeing the house. Still, coming up with a price out of thin air is usually a bad sign. Instead, the company should offer to do an in-home estimate.

If nothing else, you should get one or two movers to give you an in-person estimate. That would show you how far off the sight-unseen offers were, letting you decide for yourself whether you want to strike them from your list.

Read Through the Paperwork

Last but not least, if you’re looking to get strangers to handle all of your worldly possessions — you’d better read the fine print. Moving companies in the U.S. are required by law to give you a pamphlet explaining your consumer rights and responsibilities. Make sure you go through those carefully.

Additionally, each moving company has its own set of rules and service levels. Each of your front-runners should either provide you with a list of services that cost extra or make them evident on their sites. As you’ll find, many companies charge extra for packing — which is understandable. Still, if you want to avoid that cost, you can pack most if not all of your stuff before their arrival.

When you settle on the company, you’ll probably get some paperwork to sign. If the representative gives you a blank contract — go with your second choice. On the other hand, if you just don’t fully understand the document, take the time to read through it carefully. If a company is legitimate, it won’t mind waiting while you decode the meaning of every little line in there.

Just remember to sign the contract only after you’re fully satisfied with it. That will make both you and the movers happier in the long run!

Top Reasons to Move to Scottsdale

Top Reasons to Move to Scottsdale

Top Reasons to Move to Scottsdale

 

If you’re considering moving to Scottsdale, you’re in good company! Its mild winters and leisurely upscale vibe are a big draw, but our gorgeous little corner of the desert is much more than just a great place to settle down. 

 

From a sophisticated art scene to stunning nature preserves to world-class golf courses, Scottsdale is a playground for those who also love to get up and go! Want to know more? Let’s look at some of the very top reasons you should move to Scottsdale.

You’ll Love the Culinary Scene Here 

Want to be the envy of foodies all over the southwest? Head to FnB to enjoy some mind-blowing dishes from Charleen Badman (James Beard winner for Best Chef of the Southwest in 2019). Paired with a brilliantly curated wine menu courtesy of Pavle Milic (James Beard nominee for Outstanding Beverage Program), you’ve got a gastronomical experience for the record books.    

 

The Rusty Spur Saloon is the place to be for western charm! This officially registered historical landmark was constructed in 1921. After a few iterations and quite a few years, in 1951, it became the first bar in Scottsdale. Pony up for a cold beer, prickly pear margaritas, and a selection of fantastic bourbons with live country music every night of the week!

 

If you’re in the mood for fashionable, the sophisticated Asian/Mexican fusion creations at Sumomaya will have you snapping pics for Instagram faster than you can say tapas! Enjoy pre-dinner sake or craft cocktails, then feast on wagyu carne asada, al pastor pork pad thai, various ceviches, and a full sushi menu. You’re sure to leave stuffed and happy! 

It’s a Great Place to Stay Healthy

With so many upscale resorts in the area, you can expect an equal number of spas offering relaxing massages, luxe facial treatments, and rejuvenating body wraps. But there are plenty of places in Scottsdale that take the notion of luxury spa service well outside the box to deliver genuinely unique wellness experiences.

  

For example, The Four Seasons North hotel offers guided group meditations, zen hikes, tai-chi, and aromatherapy experiences. Suppose you’d like to get even more holistic? In that case, The Second Nature Clinic offers Naturopathic and Ayurvedic treatments designed to enhance your health from the inside out.      

Our Neighborhoods Are Full of Personality

Old Town claims the spot as the city’s most metropolitan area with hip restaurants and shopping within walking distance of some of the most sophisticated single-family homes and rental apartments in Scottsdale. Not only is it one of the most happening places to live, but surprisingly, Old Town is one of the most affordable.

 

For those who want to get in on Scottsdale’s next “it” spot, South Scottsdale is the place to be. While it’s still developing and growing, large-scale building and renewal projects ensure that property investments there are to pay off.  

 

There’s no shortage of suburban oases with top-tier schools for families, either. Central Scottsdale, McCormick Ranch, and Gainey Ranch are home to excellent public schools, kid-friendly attractions, and plenty of green space for families to enjoy. 

 

Finally, for those looking for a little more seclusion, you can’t beat Paradise Valley. Be prepared to shell out some serious dough for the luxury homes in the area, though. With celebs like Alice Cooper and Michael Phelps as your neighbors, privacy comes at a premium.  

Welcome to Scottsdale

We hope you enjoy our city as much as we do! Once you fall under the region’s picturesque desert spell, we predict you’ll stay for good. See you around town!

Top Moving Tips for New Homebuyers

Top Moving Tips for New Homebuyers

Top Moving Tips for New Homebuyers

If you’re a new home buyer, then you’re probably wondering what the process of moving actually entails. It can be daunting to think about packing up all your belongings and transporting them to a new location. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we will discuss some of the best moving tips for new homebuyers. By following these tips, you can make the moving process a lot easier and less stressful. Let’s get started!

Start packing and planning early to avoid last-minute stress

Home buying is always filled with stress but there are ways to minimize it. Packing is one of the main causes of stress because it seems like there’s never enough time to do it. This can be especially true if you’re buying a home and have to move out of your old one on the same day. While it’s impossible to avoid all stress, there are some things you can do to make the process easier. First, start packing early. This will give you time to sort through your belongings and figure out what you need to take with you and what can be left behind. Second, compare car shipping companies. This will help you find the best deal and make sure your vehicle arrives at your new home safe and sound. Finally, try to relax and enjoy the process. Remember, this is a new adventure for you and your family! Embrace the change and have fun with it.

Label your boxes clearly so you can find what you need quickly

Good labeling practices will save you time and frustration when you’re looking for something specific in your storage unit. Use a dark permanent marker to label the sides of your boxes, and be sure to include both the contents of the box and the room where it belongs. For example, you might label a box “kitchen – dishes” or “office – printer paper.” You can also use colored tape to color-code your boxes by room; for instance, blue tape for the living room, green tape for the kitchen, etc. In addition, it’s a good idea to take a quick inventory of your boxes as you’re packing them up, so you’ll know at a glance what’s inside each one. With a little bit of planning, you can make sure your storage unit is well organized and easy to navigate.

Pack heavier items on the bottom of the box and lighter items on top

When you’re packing a box for shipping, it’s important to keep in mind how the weight of the contents will affect the box itself. The heavier items should always go on the bottom, with the lighter items on top. This will help to distribute the weight evenly and prevent the box from becoming top-heavy and tipping over. It’s also a good idea to pack fragile items in the middle of the box, surrounded by padding on all sides. By following these simple tips, you can help to ensure that your package arrives safely at its destination.

Use bubble wrap and packing peanuts to protect your fragile items

When it comes time to move or even to just pack up some items for storage, you want to make sure your fragile items are well protected. Using bubble wrap and packing peanuts is a great way to do this. Bubble wrap is great for wrapping around delicate items and providing a cushion of protection. Packing peanuts can be used to fill in any empty space in the box, providing additional support and preventing items from shifting during transport. When packing fragile items, be sure to use enough bubble wrap and packing peanuts so that the item is completely surrounded and well supported. This will help ensure that your fragile items arrive at their destination safe and sound.

Make a list of important phone numbers and email addresses for easy reference

Moving is always a stressful time. There’s so much to remember and keep track of. To help make your move a little easier, be sure to make a list of important phone numbers and email addresses for easy reference. This way you won’t have to go searching for them when you need them. Here are some of the most important contacts to include on your list:

 

-Your current landlord or property manager. Be sure to have their contact information handy in case there are any problems with your current residence during the move.

-The utility company for your new home. You’ll need to contact them to schedule a disconnection/connection of service at your old and new homes.

-The moving company you’ve hired (if applicable). Include their contact information so you can reach them easily on moving day if there are any changes or problems.

-Your friends and family! Make sure your loved ones have your new contact information so they can stay in touch.

 

With this helpful list, you’ll be one step ahead in the moving process. So sit down, make some calls, and get ready for your big move!

 

Do you have clients that are moving to Arizona?

Do you have clients that are moving to Arizona?

Do you have clients that are moving to Arizona?

We are offering 30% for any and all of your referrals plus and additional 10% when our client sells their home with Andrew & The Holm Group.

That’s a total of 40% for your referral.

 

We look forward to speaking at you with you soon on how we can best serve your clients in Arizona.. 

The Holm Group represents buyers and sellers in every county/town/city in Arizona

The Holm Group has closed over $120M in residential real estate business

We have been licensed and doing business in Arizona for the past 20 years

We can handle all of your referrals including your clients that are looking for land to build a new home of their dreams or help them with one of our new communities that in Scottsdale and surrounding areas.

There are over 100 people a day moving here from California, so take advantage of this great referral rate

Referral agreements will be signed in advance before we ever speak to your client and we will answer any and all of your questions up front

Our testimonials speak for themselves and we look forward to adding you and your clients to our testimonials

30% paid directly to your broker when our client closes escrow in Arizona with Andrew & The Holm Group

An additional 10% will be put into the original referral agreement, and is due when your client sells the home they have purchased with The Holm Group

 

Give Andrew w/ The Holm Group a call today at 480-206-4265 or complete the form below and one of our team members will be in touch shortly. 

 

We looking forward to working with you as well as making your clients transition to Arizona as smooth as possible. 

 

 

 

Why are So Many People Moving from California to Arizona?

Why are So Many People Moving from California to Arizona?

Why are So Many People Moving from California to Arizona?

 

Americans are a transient people, with many of them moving from one state to another. One of the most popular migration routes in recent years has seen Californians resettling in Arizona. In 2018, moving from California to Arizona was the second most popular move in the United States. What’s behind this migration of two neighboring states? Here is why Californians are flocking to the Grand Canyon State.

 

Employment Growth

Arizona ranks third in the United States for job growth with a rate that is double the national average. Sectors such as financial services, technology and healthcare have boomed for years, drawing out-of-state talent. Job growth is also driven by specific policy decisions made by Arizona lawmakers, which also make the state attractive to entrepreneurs who are tired of over-regulation.

 

Diverse Housing Choices

Not only does the state have more affordable housing, it also gives buyers a range of styles that fits their personality and lifestyles. The Phoenix area, in particular, has a wide array of home styles and price ranges.  Here you’ll find single-family architectural styles ranging from the charm of ranch style, bungalows, pueblo revival and mid-century modern to Spanish mission, Mediterranean revival and 21st century modern. What’s more is you can choose gated communities for extra security, carefree townhomes or ultra-modern condos in urban city centers.

 

Exceptional Education

The Phoenix area has some of the top-rated school districts in the state, including K-12 unified school districts in Scottsdale, Deer Valley, Paradise Valley, Cave Creek and many more. In addition, you’ll also find a selection of individual schools in these areas named Blue Ribbon Schools by the United States Department of Education. You’ll also find a number of exceptional charter schools and private academies. When it comes to higher education, it doesn’t get any better than Arizona State University in Tempe.

 

A Variety of Outdoor Activities

Although nearly 40% of the state is desert, Arizona is also home to majestic mountains, gorgeous canyons and rich plant and animal life. It’s no wonder that hiking is the most popular outdoor activity, but you can also enjoy mountain biking, horseback riding, rafting and hot air ballooning, all within minutes of your front door. If you golf, the Phoenix Valley is a dream with several world-class PGA golf courses and country clubs.

 

Rich Cultural Life

Californians never want for things to do after moving to Arizona. The Valley has a thriving cultural scene that includes indoor and outdoor museums, festivals and cultural centers. A variety of organizations sponsor events such as the Scottsdale Art Walk.  The culinary scene is also amazing, offering everything from street food to fine dining over a wide range of cuisines.

Why So Many People Are Moving From California to Arizona

Why So Many People Are Moving From California to Arizona

Why So Many People Are Moving From California to Arizona

California has established itself as one of the most popular states in the US. People from all walks of life come to this attractive state for a host of different reasons. From beautiful weather and coastal cities to attractive job opportunities and stunning national parks, there are a lot of reasons one would consider heading to California. However, in recent years, there’s been a surge of people transitioning from this seemingly coastal paradise to Arizona. Let’s find out why.

1. It’s more affordable.

California has earned a reputation for being incredibly expensive. As more people and businesses (tech companies especially) flock to the Golden State, the average cost of living inevitably rises. This has led to a mini-exodus of people of all ages fleeing these growing prices as California continues to become more populous. When comparing the capital cities, it’s clear that Arizona is significantly cheaper to live than California on nearly every metric.

2. You don’t sacrifice nice weather.

One of the best perks of moving to California is the weather. Clear skies, warm temperatures, and the occasional ocean breeze (if you’re close enough) are just a few of the highlights of the Californian climate. Unfortunately for this western state, there’s a more affordable neighbor right next door that has just as nice weather: Arizona. There’s a reason this is a popular state for snowbirds and retirees. Those who fell in love with California for the weather but can’t stand the cost of living can easily move to AZ without sacrificing any of the nice weather.

3. It’s less populated.

Los Angeles has more than twice the population of Phoenix. This disparity is even greater when comparing the overall population of California to Arizona, roughly 39 million and 7 million, respectively. If you’re someone who doesn’t enjoy congested cities, impenetrable rush-hour traffic, and even pollution, then Arizona is a no-brainer compared to California.

4. Lower-income tax.

California’s income tax ranges from 1% to 12.3%. Compared with Arizona’s significantly lower range of 2.59% to 4.50%, it’s clear why people would flock to the Grand Canyon State if they want to hold onto more of their earnings. Whether saving up for retirement, taking care of a new family, or just graduating from school, every penny you can hold onto is going to make a big difference in terms of saving. It seems Arizona has California beat in this department.

5. Better housing market.

Housing is one of the most important factors that people considering before moving. As a life-time investment, finding an affordable home is key. The trend we’ve seen with California being more expensive than Arizona is perhaps best exemplified when comparing the housing market in each state. The average home in CA costs an astonishing $440,000. In contrast, the average home in Arizona costs around $299,900, according to Zillow.

While there are many economic, social, political, and even personal reasons why a person might move from California to Arizona, we’ve highlighted some of the more apparent reasons here. If you’re thinking about making the move, be sure to give us a call to talk about your options. Having a reputable real estate agent on your side can make the transition that much easier.

Tips for Moving in the Arizona Summer

Tips for Moving in the Arizona Summer

Tips for Moving in the Arizona Summer

 

If you’ll be moving in Arizona during the sweltering summer months, it’s important to prepare for dealing with the weather. Scottsdale summers are no joke, especially when you’re running around and lifting and moving heavy boxes all day.

Keep the following tips in mind when you’re getting ready for your big summertime move to stay comfortable, safe, and as sweat-free as possible.

Hydrate

Staying hydrated—before, during, and after the move—is the best thing you can do to stay safe in that infamous Arizona heat. When you’re prepping for a big summer move, it’s time to cut down on the coffee and wine and up your water intake, instead.

Keep a water bottle with you at all times during the move. Dehydration is no joke – according to the American Heart Association, this can lead to headaches, swollen feet, and even heat stroke. (And, keep in mind that its water you should be drinking, not sports drinks filled with added sugars and calories.)

Wear sunscreen

The sun doesn’t just bring the heat. If you’re moving in and out of the house, be sure to apply copious amounts of sunscreen and reapply throughout the day.

Remember, though: Sunscreen is never a complete block, no matter how high the SPF is; it’s important to take plenty of breaks in the shade.)

Dress appropriately

Now’s not the time to wear tight-fitting jeans. Long-flowing, loose-fitting garments keep you cooler than jeans and shorts. And since dark colors absorb light and heat, your outfit should consist of lighter colors.

There are a couple of other less-than-attractive but vital accessories to your moving attire. These could include:

  • hats
  • sunglasses
  • bandanas
  • neck towels

Get an early start

The coolest time of the day is the early morning. If you can start moving before temperatures start rising, you’ll be much better off. At the very least, try to schedule the most strenuous tasks for first thing in the morning. You’ll thank yourself later.

Listen to your body

If you start to feel woozy , headache-y, or in any way unwell, listen to your body. You may need more water, you may need to re-think your clothing choices, or you may simply need to take a break for a while. Everyone tolerates the heat a little differently, so listening to your body while you’re moving big, heavy boxes is crucial.

Get organized

Before you even start the moving process, ensure that everything is as organized as possible to allow for a quick, efficient, streamlined move. This could mean starting the packing process weeks before, and making sure everything is labeled and sorted into easily-transported groups.

Also, do not forget to turn on the utilities at your new place before the move. The last thing you want when you’re moving during the summer is to walk into a new home without air conditioning!

Hire the pros

Don’t ever try to move your things alone, especially in the heat. If you don’t have family or friends to lend a helping hand, you should consider hiring a professional crew to help carry boxes and heavy furniture.

Professional help doesn’t have to stay within the realm of moving boxes. You can also hire extra hands to help deep clean your old home or help deal with huge piles of junk or trash. The more able bodies you’re able to hire, the better.

Stay cool out there!

Moving can be an exciting time. But when moving from one Arizona home to another in the summer, staying cool and organized is vital.

If you need help looking for a new home in the east valley, reach out to our team today!