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6 Tips to Make Your Long-Distance Move Stress-Free

March 14, 2023
Chloe Taylor
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Moving can be tough, especially when it’s a long distance. However, it can be more than that. Moving can be an exciting opportunity to start fresh and explore new places. For example, moving to Tucson, AZ, can be great if you enjoy taking in breathtaking views of mountain ranges and biking in wide open spaces. 

You can help stay focused on these positives by planning your move. This article includes 6 tips to help you prepare for your long-distance move. Whether moving for a job, to be closer to family, or simply for a change of scenery, our tips will guide you through the process and help you navigate the potential pitfalls. 

These tips discuss packing, decluttering your home, taking care of yourself during the move, and more, which can help make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. So, let’s dive in and make your long-distance move less stressful.

Hire a Reputable Moving Company

People move for various reasons, whether due to the weather, cost of living, or crime rates. Some people may want to move to or from places that have affordable housing and clear and comfortable weather. Tucson, AZ, for example, is mostly clear and sunny, and the cost of housing is lower than the national average, which can be great for some. 

Before you move, though, you must research and choose a moving company with a proven track record of success. 

Look for companies with good reviews and a history of successful long-distance moves. If you’re in Tucson or want to move to Tucson, search the website https://www.colemanallied.com/areas-served/tucson-az/long-distance-movers/ to help you pack your life away. This way, you can rest easy knowing that your belongings are safe and that you’ll arrive at your new home on time.

Declutter Your Home

Moving can be the perfect time to declutter your home. Decluttering is essential to making your move as stress-free as possible, and it can even help you save money in the long run.

Start by going through each room in your home and separating items into three categories: keep, donate, and throw away. Be honest with yourself about what you need and use regularly and be ruthless about getting rid of anything you no longer need or use.

You’ll be amazed at how much easier it is to pack after decluttering your home. You may also save money on moving costs by getting rid of excess belongings. Of course, you’ll also start your new life in a clutter-free space.

Take Inventory of Your Stuff

Make sure that your inventory list is as detailed as possible. List the items you’re moving, with their condition, value, and any special handling instructions. You may also want to take photos or videos of your belongings as proof of their condition and to help you keep track of them during the move.

Secondly, label your boxes with descriptions of their contents and the name of their destination room. This way, you can stay organized during the move and make unpacking easier.

Keep your inventory list with you during the move to ensure nothing gets lost or left behind. Following these insider tips can help ensure your belongings arrive at your new home safely.

Sort Everything Out Before Moving Day

When you’re getting ready to move, it’s not just about packing your stuff and hitting the road. You must also handle some essential tasks to ensure a smooth departure.

For starters, contact all the local businesses and service providers you use, such as utility companies and your township. You want to make sure you’re not getting hit with any unexpected fees or complications down the road.

And when it comes to the actual move, packing an “essentials” bag is a game-changer. Whether flying or driving, having a bag with all the important stuff you’ll need for the journey will help keep you and your family comfortable and prepared. Think snacks, water, chargers, medications, and any other must-haves. 

Prepare Your New Home

Getting ready for your long-distance move also includes planning for your new home. After all, you want to be able to relax and settle in as soon as you arrive. Schedule utility start dates and any necessary permits a few days before you arrive to ensure a smooth transition. This way, you won’t have to deal with any interruptions in services once you reach.

Letting your neighbors know you’re moving in is also a good idea. This way, you can start on a friendly note. And to save time and energy, consider setting up a grocery delivery service for the first few days after you move in. This can help you focus on unpacking and settling without worrying about running out of the store for essentials. By taking care of these details ahead of time, you can make your move-in process stress-free and enjoyable.

Take Care and Stay Connected

Moving can be exhausting, and the last thing you want to do is to neglect your well-being. You must take care of yourself during the move by eating healthy, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest. Don’t forget to pack some snacks and drinks for the road and try to get a good night’s sleep before the big day.

But taking care of yourself isn’t just about physical health. It’s also important to stay connected with friends and family. Moving to a new place can be isolating, so keep in touch with loved ones through video calls or social media. They can offer support and encouragement during this stressful time.

Remember, self-care and staying connected can make all the difference during a long-distance move. Take it one step at a time, and don’t forget to take breaks when necessary.

Conclusion

To sum it up, moving far away isn’t an easy task, and it’ll probably overwhelm you. But with the right planning and approach, you can make it less stressful and more exciting. Remember, you’re not alone. Plenty of resources are available to help you along the way, from friends and family to online forums and support groups. 

Stay positive and keep an open mind, and you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish. Embrace the change, explore your new surroundings, and make the most of this exciting new chapter in your life. With these tips and a can-do attitude, your long-distance move will surely be a success. Good luck and happy moving!

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5 Ways to Add More Apace to Your Humble Abode

January 30, 2023
Chloe Taylor
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The housing market has evolved immensely in recent years. The sprawling lawns and large rooms seem to be a thing of the past. Increased demand and soaring prices mean that affording larger spaces has become something that is pretty out of reach. Especially in a city like Lewes, where the unemployment rate is 6.4%, many people might not want to spend money on extending their homes or purchasing a large one.

Moreover, maintaining such a huge space can be challenging in our fast-paced lives. Thus, in the current climate, smaller homes are rapidly on the rise. Whether you’re in a tiny home or a smaller apartment, affording and managing smaller spaces can be much simpler. However, we totally get it if you’re starting to feel a little cramped in your humble abode. With limited space, it can be challenging to create a space you feel comfortable in. We’ve got some tips to help make your home much more spacious than it is. 

Use a storage unit 

Not having enough space for all of your belongings is the biggest issue that people encounter in a smaller home. There are several items accumulated over the years that you may not be ready to part with. Ranging from furniture to clothes and family heirlooms, stashing everything in your house can make it seem much more cramped and stuffy than it is. 

A storage unit can be an easy way to remove these items from your home without having to throw them away. Storage units are an affordable solution to all your storage needs, big or small. You can find units in several sizes, with affordable leases, for as long as you need. Finding a storage facility that isn’t far from home would be best. You can easily find several Lewes self-storage facilities near you. Moving items to this facility can help make your small home much more spacious.     

Use lighter colors 

You’d be surprised to learn the impact color scheme can have on making your home seem roomier. Although it may seem like an inconsequential measure, lighter colors can make even the smallest of rooms appear airy and open. In contrast, darker colors can make your rooms appear smaller and blocked off. Even if you have one wall painted dark or the ceiling in a darker color, it can make your room look much smaller. 

Consider pastels if you want to add different shades to your room without making it look stuffy and dark. Not only can pastel tones make your space appear much roomier, but they can also lighten the mood and add a soft, romantic touch. This palette is definitely not limited, and you can pick from a wide range of colors depending on the rest of your furniture and theme. These hues can look incredibly sophisticated and add a pop of color without ever being too overbearing. 

Expand the outdoors 

It doesn’t matter how much outdoor space you have – expanding it by making it more usable can help you add more space to your home. One of the many reasons why our homes can seem too small is because we focus too much on the interior. However, adding usable space outside allows you to have another effective wing in your home, thus expanding space. 

If you have an apartment, you can work on improving your balconies. By adding some outdoor seating, a grill, or even some lights and rugs to relax and set the mood, you can have a great outdoor area perfect for hosting. If you have a traditional home, you can add more space by building a deck or patio. Decks and patios can be extremely functional, and you can add plants, seating, grills, and more to make them a multipurpose area. With all that extra space outdoors, not only will you be able to connect with nature better, but you won’t be confined to just a small indoor space. 

Redo your home plan 

If you own your home, you have much greater leeway to switch things around and make even the smallest of spaces appear large and roomy. A revamped floor plan can make a world of difference and can take a space from feeling cramped to feeling airy and luxurious. Since this is a large-scale project, it’s important to think things through before implementation and ensure you have a good budget. 

One of the most important areas to revamp can be the kitchen. A closed-off kitchen can make your house appear smaller and lead to a lot of wasted space. Instead of having separate rooms for your kitchen, dining room, and lounge, consider combining all three. An open floor plan with limited walls can make your home appear larger and airier. Adding a kitchen island, with a lounge seating arrangement nearby, can help you create a pretty cozy space without your home appearing too boxed in. 

Use illusions 

With some smart decorating and redoing, you can make any small space appear much larger than it is. Mirrors can be some of the best tools to make any boxed-in space appear larger. You can create an illusion of a larger space by placing mirrors at the entrance or in some particularly tiny spots. Moreover, you can also add mirrors of all shapes and sizes to create a fluid, creative look throughout your home. 

In addition to mirrors, you can also add windows. This can again be a pricier project to undertake, but one which can be incredibly effective. Windows can connect your home to the outdoors and can create the illusion of your home being bigger than it is. Adding some sheer drapes or blinds can help you add some privacy without breaking the illusion. Moreover, they can also look super aesthetic and lend an incredibly elegant touch to your apartment. 

Conclusion 

It doesn’t matter what the size of your home is – what matters is what you do with it. Following these tips can effectively increase your living space and make your home appear much larger. With a combination of smart décor and a few tweaks, you can revamp your space and make the most of your humble abode.

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5 Factors That Make All the Difference in Your Bathroom Remodel 

January 17, 2023
Chloe Taylor
Comments Off on 5 Factors That Make All the Difference in Your Bathroom Remodel 

Springtime is the time for renovation. Whether you’re planning on selling your home or just looking for a way to upgrade your bathroom to make it look more aesthetically pleasing, there are some things you can implement that can make all the difference. Read on to learn about five factors you should consider when you’re doing a bathroom remodel.

How you use the space you have

Making the most of the space we have is very important when remodeling the bathroom. You need to carefully plan where everything is going to be and make a detailed layout for your new bathroom. Even though working with what you already have means you’ll be facing some limits in terms of square footage and existing piping, you can still make it work to your advantage. If you’re looking to create a modern bathroom, relocating the utilities such as the toilet and bathtub can be costly, but sometimes it can be worth the money. Rerouting the plumbing is necessary if you want to give your bathroom a contemporary vibe by installing a freestanding bathtub or changing the position of the toilet so that it isn’t facing the door. Also, the area around your sink can be utilized for storing toiletries and everyday items, so consider investing in practical storage or bathroom cabinets where you can hide all the clutter to keep your countertops clean and clear.

What you choose to invest in

During your bathroom remodel, there are some things you can save on while allowing yourself to splurge on other, more notable pieces. The things you can save on are the toilet and the mirror. You don’t have to get rid of the whole porcelain perch – just replace the toilet seat and lid and you’re good to go. The same goes for a mirror – instead of purchasing a new one, consider framing the mirror to give it an updated look. Now, the one thing you shouldn’t resist splurging on is a bathtub. A tub is a place where you can relax and unwind after a long day, so you need to invest in one that is both comfortable and visually appealing. That’s why it is wise to invest in high-quality designer baths – other than being highly functional, their attractive design will make your bathroom look chic and luxurious, thus creating a spa-like experience. 

How you choose to arrange your bathroom 

The layout you choose for your bathroom can have a significant impact on its functionality, as well as the overall appeal of the room. According to Feng Shui, your toilet shouldn’t be the first thing you see when you enter the bathroom. Instead, consider placing it several feet away from the door. Let something else be the focal point of your bathroom, like a tub, or a nice vanity with a framed mirror. If you’re looking to make your bathroom look stylish, place the tub in the center – a freestanding bath is a contemporary way to arrange your bathroom and make it look more sophisticated and refined. Where you decide to place your bathtub can tell something about your personality and what qualities you’re looking for. 

 

Which materials you decide to use

Similar to bathtubs, countertops made from high-quality materials are another investment worth their price. Splurging on a marble or granite countertop for your vanity is a great way to elevate your bathroom and give it a polished high-end look. The other materials you use in your bathroom don’t have to be expensive at all. By splurging strategically on items that are eye-catching, you’re creating focal points that will stand out, meaning you can save money on things that serve as supporting elements. You don’t have to spend a fortune to install marble tiles – white or neutral-colored ceramic tiles will work just fine. And even though hardwood flooring will infuse your bathroom with great character, you don’t need to spend a fortune on installing and maintaining it – opt for ceramic tiles that mimic the texture and pattern of real hardwood flooring. That way, you’re getting the best of both worlds.

What lighting scheme you choose for your bathroom

Lights can really affect how we perceive space. When placed strategically, they can even make the bathroom look more spacious than it actually is. In combination with mirrors, they add value to the room and make it look more appealing. Mirrors and lights are two multifunctional design elements interior designers use to expand the room visually. How you choose to place your lighting fixtures plays a big role in designing a contemporary bathroom. The perfect lighting scheme consists of layering ambient, accent, decorative, and task lighting.  Many interior designers like to introduce lighting around the mirror frame to make it stand out, while recessed lighting is a rather inexpensive way to make your bathroom look luxe. Another lighting device worth investing in is the dimmer switch – it’ll add mood to your space and make your late-night baths so much cozier. 

Remodeling your bathroom is an exciting project because you get the opportunity to express your personality and creativity through your living space. Have in mind these five factors when you’re doing bathroom remodeling and you’re sure to create a modern oasis you (and potential buyers) will love, and probably add some value to your home in the process.

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Pro Tips: 5 Ways to Know You’ve Found the Right House

March 24, 2020
Chloe Taylor
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When looking for your dream house, you may want to approach the matter with caution and care. The last thing you want to do is haphazardly buy the first property you see just because it was convenient.

Purchasing a house is far more serious an investment than buying virtually anything else. That being said, here are some surefire ways you can easily determine whether you’ve found the house of your dreams or not. Check them out.

It has everything you need

The most important question you need to ask yourself when looking to buy a house is what you want to have in it. You need to determine exactly which features you want to have in your new home, as well as the ideal number of rooms, bathrooms and other similar things. Once you’ve determined exactly what you’re looking for, it will be far easier for you to choose.

The house is in the right neighborhood

Additionally, if both the house and the neighborhood it’s in fall under your preferred category, there really is not much to think about. The neighborhood you’ll be living in plays a very important role. Ideally, you want to choose a neighborhood in a good school district if you have or are planning on having kids. Moreover, it’s always a good idea to move into a neighborhood that has a low crime rate, as well as a good connection to public transport. Otherwise, no matter how good the property looks, chances are you won’t be too happy with your choice in the long run. Also, having a park nearby would be an added bonus, especially if you’re a dog owner.

The price is right

Let’s be real, no matter how perfect the property you are inspecting is and no matter how well the neighborhood it’s located in works for you, the fact is that you can kiss it goo-bye if it’s entirely out of your price range. So, to save yourself some heartache, make sure you make it very clear to your real estate agent what your budget is and that you absolutely can’t afford to look at houses outside of it. This way, you’ll be presented with a curated offer where everything will be within your budget. And, if you manage to score an ideal house that’s actually somewhat cheaper than you’ve originally planned on spending, you’ll be left with more money you can spend on sprucing the space up.

You can already see yourself living there

It may sound a bit funny at first, but if you can imagine yourself and your family living in the house you’re only looking at, chances are you’ve found your dream house. If the house you’re inspecting instantly gets your mind racing with the décor you’d implement in the space and how you’d use various rooms, you can rest assured you will be happy there for a long time to come. However, it’s important not to make any decisions with heart-shaped glasses on. If a certain property makes you feel like this, go home, discuss it with your family, sleep on it and leave the decision-making for the next day. This will allow you to reassess the property once more and make a clear-headed decision.

You want to move in straight away

On a similar note, if you had some time to clearly think about making your decision and you still can’t help but feel like you want to move into the house as soon as possible, you’ve already made your choice. This is where you need to act fast and let your agent know you’ve made your choice. But it’s also important to mention that if – for any reason – you simply can’t purchase the house any longer, don’t despair. There will be plenty of other houses you may end up liking even more than this one.

In the end, buying a house is a major financial move that shouldn’t be approached willy-nilly. The more you communicate with your real estate agent, the greater the chances that you’ll soon find something that’s right up your alley. So, take your time, decide exactly what you’re looking for and don’t settle for anything less than absolute perfection.

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Smooth Decorator is a website dedicated to our little sanctuaries from the hustle and bustle of the outside world – to our homes, sweet homes. We believe that the foundation of a quality life needs to be set right there, in the place where we first dream things up, and that only when we organized our homes can we hope to organize the rest of our everyday existence.

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