How To Choose A Mover

full service moving companies

Moving can be one of the most exciting, yet stressful endeavors you may experience. Doing your homework to find a reputable mover and planning 4 to 6 weeks ahead can help ease the tensions. Below you will find some steps to help you in your process of locating a trusted mover.

The first step should be to talk to your relatives, friends, associates or realtor for a personal recommendation on movers they have used in the past. Once your list is compiled, research your list of movers by checking their authority and licensing numbers, and also their Better Business Bureau record. It is a good idea to choose a mover who is a member of the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA). These companies have agreed to abide by published tariffs and to participate in its arbitration program.

Inform the mover of the timing and destination of your move. Be sure to have a visual estimate performed by the mover with a complete list of items to be moved. Your estimator should provide you with details of how pickup and delivery will work, the rates and charges that apply, the movers liability for your belongings, and what claims protection you have. When receiving multiple quotes, beware of “low-ball bids”, estimates which are significantly lower than the other quotes. It may mask a less .reliable mover

Have a clear understanding of your estimate, and your payment options. A reputable mover will take the time to explain the details of their service, along with various payment options available to fit your budget. Being well informed can help avoid disputes between you and your mover. Once you have decided on a moving company, start preparing for your moving day. Be sure to contact the movers a few days before the move to confirm all details and arrangements.

Remember, choosing the right mover can aid in a successful, stress-free moving experience.

Moving & Foreclosures

With the foreclosure rate rising rapidly many homeowners feel they have nowhere to turn. Here are some useful tips that could help you avoid foreclosure.

Most homeowners think that all lenders are eager to foreclose and take possession of their property. It is true that predatory or abusive lenders may intentionally lend money with the intent of pursuing foreclosure and repossessing the home. However, the majority of mortgage lenders prefer to receive your house payments, and will only foreclose as a last resort. Foreclosure is expensive for lenders, mortgage insurers and investors. HUD/FHA, as well as private mortgage insurance companies and investors like Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, require lenders to work aggressively with borrowers who are facing money problems.

On July 30th President Bush signed a housing bill allowing people who are struggling to make their mortgage payments a chance to refinance into government backed loans. Unfortunately this housing bill will not be implemented until the later part of the year at earliest.

When facing foreclosure it is very important to contact your lender immediately. Nearly 50% of people having their homes foreclosed never contact the lending institution. Inform them that you are struggling they can work with you to help you through any rough times, quite often allowing you more time to pay or freezing any additional interest until you have caught up on your repayments. If they do not know, they can’t help you.

Here are a few options that your lender may consider.

• Forbearance: Generally lets you pay less than the full amount of your mortgage payment for a temporary period.

• Repayment plan: A form of forbearance where you pay the outstanding amount in installments divided over a period of time.

• Reinstatement: You pay your lender the total outstanding amount in one lump sum by a specific date.

• Loan modification: Your interest rate and/or term of loan is altered -- that is, the mortgage note itself is changed.

• Short sale: When you get an offer that's less than the amount you owe, your lender could consider it as a settlement.

• Deed in lieu of foreclosure: This allows you to transfer your property voluntarily to your lender.

It is very important that you take time to educate yourself on the foreclosure process, terms and conditions .

Also, you should know and understand your rights.

Upcoming Moving Stuff!

Sept 08 "International Moves"

learn about internationl moves in the Fall!

Moving overseas or internationally? Learn what's involved. You'll learn the paperwork and custom issues you may face during an international move. Whether your moving household contents or an automobile overseas. Right from our resident international experts! Get Free International Moving Quotes!

October 08 "Self Moves vs. Full Service"

self moving article in october

Coming in October learn the difference between a self move and a full service moving company. Knowing the difference can save you quite a bit of aggravation as you will know what to expect from each service. Written by our experienced moving staff! Self Moving Quotes!