Oakville, ON

If you are moving a short distance, are working with a limited budget or don't have too many possessions, moving your belongings yourself might be a good option. Here are some things to keep in mind when selecting a truck rental company.

· Start by asking for referrals from friends and family.

· Take an inventory of your possessions and estimate their size and weight. Th-is information will be helpful when buying packing materials and selecting which vehicle is right for your move.

· Carefully review the insurance agreement and pay special attention to pricing and terms.

· Ask to see a vehicle. A first-hand look at the quality of the truck, trailer or van is always valuable.

· Ask if the company rents or supplies other moving tools, like a hand truck for moving larger items. Moving blankets are also useful.

· Follow the instructions on how to load the van or truck to ensure proper balance.

· Before selecting a company, investigate their requirements for pick up and drop off. If possible, you will want a return location that is not far from your final destination.

· When you pick up the vehicle, pay special attention to operating instructions. You want to be clear about things like operating the lift and locking the doors.

· Finally, be clear about what to do in the event of an emergency, like a breakdown or flat tire. Knowing the right procedure could save you time and money.

Putting the power of today's technological advances to work for you and your real estate ambitions!
For more information, or if you have an Oakville Real Estate question, please feel free to call me today or visit my website at: http://www.barryquine.com

Once you have purchased a home, you also need to protect its value. After all, for most people a home is their largest single asset. In fact it can be the basis for securing funding for other endeavors, like college or the purchase of a second property. Here are four things you can do to help your property maintain its value.

1. Dedicate one weekend each quarter to home maintenance. Clear the calendar and make a list. Tasks may include power washing, painting, clearing out the attic / garage or basement, or removing debris. It is also a good idea to prepare ahead of time by making sure the necessary supplies and tools are on hand.

2. Hire the right professionals for certain tasks. For instance, each year you should have your furnace serviced and chimney cleaned. Consistent upkeep can help prevent home systems from failing.

3. Undertake at least one home improvement project each year. This may include upgrading your landscaping, repairing a cracked patio, finishing a basement or upgrading electrical capacity. A commitment to improving your home and property will pay off in the long run.

4. Get involved in your community. When you bought your home you made a significant investment in the location. A home is worth more when it is located in a desirable community. Attend the township meetings, serve on the planning board or volunteer at your child's school. It all makes a difference.

Putting the power of today's technological advances to work for you and your real estate ambitions!
For more information, or if you have any Oakville Real Estate questions, please feel free to call me today or visit my website at: http://www.barryquine.com

Moving day is typically a high-stress occasion. No matter how organized and prepared you are, there is always a chance for a few things to fall through the cracks. Here are seven things to remember on the day of the big move.

1. Keep all valuables in your possession. This includes important paperwork, collections, family photos, jewelry, heirlooms, checkbooks, wallet/purse and the like. You do not want to hand these over to movers if possible.

2. Charge your mobile phone and keep it with you. In addition, take along your address book. And before the movers depart, be sure to exchange contact information.

3. Remember to ask for a copy of the inventory from the movers. You should also note the condition of your property before they leave.

4. Take out cash for incidentals. You may need to fill the gas tank or need money for lunch on the road. If the move is taking place within one day, you will want to tip the movers if the job is completed to your satisfaction. A good rule of thumb is $20 per mover.

5. Final payment for the moving company is traditionally due upon completion of the move.

6. Don't forget medications. Like your valuables, it is better to keep medications for you and your family members or pets with you.

7. Check the house before you leave. Turn off the lights and turn down the thermostat and hot water heater. Give each room a final once over. Lock all the windows and doors.

Putting the power of today's technological advances to work for you and your real estate ambitions!
For more information, or if you have any oakville real estate questions please feel free to give me a call or visit my website at: http://www.barryquine.com

Like everything else, there is a learning curve to buying a home. The second time around you will naturally know things you didn't the first. Here are three common mistakes made by first-time home buyers during the home search process and their solutions.

Mistake: Buyers who look at homes before they have a complete understanding of their finances are asking for trouble.
Solution: Before looking for a property, you should know your finances inside and out. This includes analyzing savings, income and expected expenses. Next, order a copy of your credit report. Your credit score will greatly influence the type and amount of loan you are eligible for. Finally, make sure you are pre-qualified for a mortgage. This means a loan officer has reviewed your employment history, debt, income and other pertinent factors and has pre-qualified you for a certain loan amount.

Mistake: Looking for a home with your heart instead of your head. Of course there is an element of emotion during the home search process, but it is also a business transaction. You want to avoid falling in love with a certain home and then finding out it is out of your reach.
Solution: First, look exclusively in your price range. Next, have a specific list of your wants and needs. Create of roster of must-haves, bonuses and things you absolutely don't want too. This will help you remain objective.

Mistake: Looking at properties without doing enough research. Curb appeal and interior charm have their place, but buyers also need to know about the community where they are buying.
Solution: Use the Internet to find out all you can about the town. Research local property taxes, the schools, area transportation and available recreation. Also talk to people in the neighborhood and local officials. Ask about traffic patterns, flooding, planned infrastructure projects, etc. Get the inside scoop from those who know the area best. Your Realtor® or buyer's agent is also an excellent resource.

Putting the power of today's technological advances to work for you and your real estate ambitions.
For much more information or if you have a real estate related question feel free to call me or visit my website at: http://www.barryquine.com

Many times a move is precipitated by a change in job position or career. To help facilitate that process corporations often hire a real estate company and their relocation specialists to help employees make the transition from one city to another.

A relocation specialist is a real estate professional who specializes in moving corporate clients. In fact he or she can be your greatest ally during this critical transition period. To help ensure a positive experience, follow these recommendations.

1. Start with a frank conversation about your price range and moving time frames. These are key factors your relocation specialist will need to know to provide you with the best service possible. For instance, if your new position is starting quickly, you may want to rent for a few months instead of rushing into a home purchase.

2. Explain your family dynamics. Is your spouse changing jobs too? Will he or she need to be near public transportation or within driving distance to another community? This is information that can influence where you buy. Also, do you have school-age children? If so, you will want your specialist to pay special attention to the quality of education in the areas you are considering.

3. Be specific about your wants and needs. Provide your specialist with a prioritized list of amenities. Although it is unlikely she will find an exact match, the more information she has, the better chance she has of finding a home that meets your requirements.

4. Be open-minded. Your relocation specialist is an expert in her field. Take her advice and recommendations to heart. Remember for this relationship and transaction to work, you need to trust her experience and insight. For instance, if you are moving from a generally more affordable region to a higher-priced metropolitan locale, you will need to rely on her expertise to show you a good value when it presents itself.

Putting the power of today's technological advances to work for you and your real estate ambitions!
For more information please visit my website at http://www.barryquine.com