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Moving with Children

Children can help by setting aside the toys and books they want to take with them and packing the rest in boxes. Colorful stickers on the outside of boxes allow children to identify their things when the moving van is unloaded.

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Long Distance Moving

Long distance moving comes even more stress, as may people worry for the safety of their possessions during long drives. Smooth Move USA will be with you each step of the way to make you feel secure and in control of your move.

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Fragile Items During Your Move

Label each and every carton. Use a broad, felt-tipped marker, clearly marking room and contents. Indicate “FRAGILE” on delicate items and “THIS END UP” where appropriate

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Packing is difficult and time-consuming. Let us handle it!

When you choose Smooth Move to help with your packing, you won’t have to lift a finger after hiring us. We offer a range of packing options for you to choose from based on your specific needs and budget.

Partial Packing

Have you already completed a portion of your packing or do you simply want help with one or two rooms? We offer partial packing plans to either pick up where you left off or to pack a room that you feel will be more difficult. From the kitchen to a room full of collectibles, we can assist you with one, two, or more rooms, making the process easier for you in the long run.

Full-Service Packing

If you don’t want to touch a single thing in your home and want us to do it all, our full-service packing option is perfect for you. We’ll pack up your home from top to bottom including everything from the silverware to boxing up your collection of antiques. Every room will be boxed up and ready to for the upcoming transition.

And once we deliver your belongings to the new location, we will also unpack everything. We’ll open each box and place each item in its new spot, instantly helping you feel right at home.

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We can help you unpack!

When you arrive in your new home we can partially or completely unpack your belongings. This includes organizing, putting everything in its new place and the removal of all packing debris and boxes. With us unpacking you can simply put your feet up on the couch, relax and begin to enjoy your new home!

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We have your storage solutions!

Whether you’re downsizing, using temporary housing during your home search, or need storage for any other reason, Smooth Move USA provides secure storage you can trust.

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The Right Staff is Important

We hire only the best, most courteous staff members, and keep an eye on your belongings around the clock. We treat your precious possessions like our own, so you never have to worry about them.

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Stay Organized While Moving

Staying organized can make the difference between a hair-pulling nervous breakdown and a calm, efficient move by the books. Here are four tips to help you stay centered and focused amidst the whirlwind of tasks required during the moving process. 

Go Digital

Given the world we live in, what would an activity be without a new app to help you out?! Of course there is the Moved app which we highly recommend :). Along with that, Evernote and Wunderlist are two of the most popular planning apps in the world, and work great as a digital to-do lists. Both Sortly and Snap N Pack are designed for moving and allow you to easily print scan-able QR codes to put on boxes, which sync with photos you’ve taken of the box’ contents. Never again will you wonder what’s in all those boxes you labelled “Misc”!

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How to Move Back in with Your Parents This Summer

You finally left the nest, you experienced freedom - but that nine months went by quickly. Having to move back home after your first year of college can sometimes feel like an out of body experience. You were used to having free reign and now what? You have to ask permission to leave the house again. 

Here are some tips to make this transition easier for both parties:

Curfew - Yes, this may feel strange. But one of the things that helps with this is open communication. If your parents tell you that you have a curfew, take a deep breath and think about what this means. If you abide by the regular time on most days, your parents may be more willing to give you slack when you politely ask for it.

Chores - Yes, pick up after yourself. Do not let the dishes pile up, this isn't your dorm room. The best thing to do is have a conversation as soon as you come home about what your parents expect from you. If you think your room should be off-limits to cleaning checks, let them know that.

Inviting Friends Over - Most people pretty much expect to have friends over at least once a week in their dorm or apartment during college. When you go back home, you may freak out your parents if you suddenly invite your whole crew up to your room and shut the door. When you get home, talk to your parents and let them know how often you expect to have friends over, how late they’ll be staying, and what you guys are doing.

Too Many Questions - You parents will most likely have a million questions ready for you as soon as you get home. Now, you might feel really annoyed at this. Just remember that you're their child and they've missed you. Your parents are excited to have you back. Keep the line of communication open.

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Keep Cohabitation Fun

While moving in together is a serious affair that requires deep thought, it’s not all about contracts and planning. It’s about taking the next, fun step with your significant other–and you shouldn’t let your frustrations about the little things squander that. “It should be a learning experience,” LPC Rich Oswaldadvises, “Not a debate on whose way is better.” Keep up going on dates, find new things to do together, and enjoy having time together–after all, that’s what being in a relationship is all about.

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Instructions: How to Pack Earrings for Moving

Grab a clean paper plate from your kitchen (be sure to use one that will fit in a resealable gallon-sized bag).

Remove the back from an earring. Carefully poke the earring through the paper plate.

On the backside of the paper plate, re-clasp the earring back onto the back of the earring.

Repeat the process for the rest of your earrings.

Place the paper plate in a gallon-sized resealable bag (just in case the earring backs get lost!). Be careful not to press down on the back and accidentally poke through the plastic with the sharp earring backs.

Put your bag of earrings in a box, ideally between soft items.

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Before Moving in Together, Sign a Household Prenup

Putting yourself in your partner’s financial hands can spell trouble if things don’t work out, which is why some therapists recommend signing an official agreement prior to move-in.

“Couples should consider writing an agreement, similar to a prenuptial agreement, about what would happen if they split up,” suggests marriage and family therapist Lauren Consul. “It’s important to have conversations about who would own what stuff if [you’re] ever to split up. This can be a difficult conversation, but necessary if one partner is getting rid of certain items and the couple is using the other partner’s items instead.”

A pre-move-in prenup might also protect you legally, according to family law attorney Meredith Lehmann. “Without a cohabitation agreement, the court treats an unmarried couple as strangers. Things that a cohabitation agreement can control is rent or mortgage payments, large purchases, debt accumulated during a relationship (and who is responsible for which debt), insurance, shared bank accounts, etc. A cohabitation agreement is kind of like an insurance policy–it’s better to have it than to bet most of your savings on your relationship lasting forever, or your significant other not being a jerk in the event you do break up.”

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Build Your Cohabitation Budget

Once you’re set on why you’re moving in together, it’s time to get down to the minutia, including the topic that’s the second highest cause of divorce in the US: money.

“[Before moving in together], have an honest conversation about finances,” coaches Dr. Alisha Powell. “Will you split the bills 50-50 or cover some exclusively? Does your partner believe in waiting until the last minute before paying, or do they pay head of time? Talk about how much you both will allot towards household expenses, and consider putting something aside for incidentals or emergencies.”

With the air cleared on money, you’ll have a better understanding of your situation, and you’ll be able to focus on the more fun parts of getting a place to live together.

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7 Signs It’s Time to Upgrade From an Apartment to a House

#1: You’re a Big Fish

Eventually, your pond may feel a bit too small. If you have ambitions that a cramped apartment doesn’t allow for, you’re stunting your growth. You might want your own breakfast nook or even the simple luxury of a lawn, but you won’t have these things in the typical one-bedroom.

This feeling is usually an early sign that it’s time to start searching for more comfortable accommodations. A studio can be awesome when you’re just starting out, but if your household is growing, your interests are expanding, or you just really want a reasonably-sized kitchen, it may be time to move into a house.

When this happens, start doing some preliminary research to figure out how much space and which features you need in a home. You don’t always have to buy, either. Look at renting a house versus an apartment for a little financial wiggle room.

#2: Your Area is in Decline

If you’ve rented the same apartment for several years, you might’ve noticed that the community you once enjoyed isn’t the same as it once was. Maybe the crime rate has increased or your favorite local businesses started shutting down. Maybe the novelty of living near the coolest bars just doesn’t matter that much to you anymore.

Of course, moving to a different apartment complex is always a solid option. But many suburban neighborhoods are less public and have more houses to offer, so they’re worth looking into if you’re interested in a starter house in a less hectic neighborhood.

#3: You Actually Make the Necessary Income

Year by year, the older you get, the more money you tend to earn. While this isn’t universally applicable, consider whether your once-broke self has climbed the ladder high enough to afford a down payment. If this is the case, you can start to calculate what mortgage payments and expenses you can afford.

It may come as a pleasant surprise that buying is cheaper than renting in 42 states. If you’re able to overcome the price of the down payment, you may find that you’re spending less money than you expected to in the long run. That’s a check for homeownership in the “apartments vs. house” battle.

#4: Your Family is Growing – and Outgrowing Your Apartment

It might start with your significant other moving in, filling the closet with their clothes and cluttering your living room with their extra furniture. And while an apartment is often spacious enough for two people, it’s not always the best place to raise children. In fact, some landlords actively discriminate against tenants with young children.

When you begin to feel cramped in your current living space and need more room, a house is your best solution. More than that, if you and your partner are combining incomes, it will make affording a property a far less daunting proposition. It’s an important step and a significant commitment, but not one to fear.

Get on-demand help moving to your new home with Dolly.

#5: It’s Time for Some New Beginnings

Following your regular routine can get old, and you might be ready for a change. As you get older, living the same lifestyle you did in your early 20s can make you feel stuck. While you shouldn’t make an important decision just because you feel pressured, you might be emotionally ready to make the next step.

If you want to enter a new chapter of your life, homeownership provides an exciting challenge. Full of new opportunities and possibilities, you may find that a change in location and the chance to decorate a new, larger space was exactly what you needed. As long as it’s financially responsible, you should take the leap.

#6: Limited Storage

Are your closets overflowing with shirts, sweaters, coats, shoes and a whole array of miscellaneous items that aren’t essential — but you just can’t throw away? For those who rent apartments versus a house, storage can prove a challenge as their belongings begin to accumulate.

While a storage unit is a potential solution to the problem, they’re not easily accessed if you’re on the go and need a specific item. One of the many advantages of homeownership or renting a house versus an apartment is increased storage space. If you feel like you’re outgrowing your apartment, it’s a benefit to consider.

#7: You’re Ready to Invest

There are a few ways to know if an investment in a home is a safe choice. If you’re no longer paying off student loan debt and have freed up that extra money, and you have enough saved for a sizable emergency fund on top of the initial down payment, you can trust that you’re secure in your purchase.

Buying a home is no small leap, and you shouldn’t approach the subject without the proper research. You’ll know that you’re ready to make the upgrade from your apartment to a larger property when you’re confident that you can account for any unexpected expenses or trouble.

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Renting a House vs. Apartment

No formula exists to account for every single variable, so consider all of the factors above to reach the best conclusion for you. Ultimately, the question of renting an apartment versus owning a house is something deeply personal, but the upgrade can be rewarding.

If you’ve done your research and are ready to upgrade from an apartment to a house, let Dolly take care of one big part of the equation: moving. Our Helpers can do the heavy lifting so you can get your stuff into your new home without breaking a sweat.

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4 Housewarming Gifts That Won’t End Up in a Closet

1. Liven Up Their New Place with Houseplants

Plants are traditional housewarming gifts for a good reason. They bring life and color to a new home, and they agree with almost any style. Regardless of your friend’s decor, your contribution won’t look out of place, and you have no shortage of options to choose from.

Consider these species when browsing your local greenhouse’s inventory:

Succulents

Cast iron plants

Spider plants

Lucky bamboo

Peace lilies

Any of these five plants are easy to care for, requiring minimal maintenance on the part of the new homeowner. That said, you should attach a note on sunlight and watering requirements so they don’t have to research the information themselves. It’s a small gesture that makes your welcome home gift even more thoughtful.

2. Give Them the Upgrade of Smart Home Tech

If your friend is a rather close buddy you don’t mind splurging a bit on, you can consider buying your friend a smart home device. If you’re not already aware of the benefits of smart thermostats, smart lighting and other smart tech designed to enhance a home, their impact might surprise you.

Take the smart thermostat, for example. Programmable technology allows homeowners to regulate their thermostats while they’re away, and even a decrease of 7-10 F for eight hours a day can save them as much as 10 percenta year on heating and cooling costs. Since the savings can add up so quickly over time, your smart thermostat is truly a gift that keeps on giving.

Other smart home tech ranges from smart speakers, security cameras, and all-in-one devices, and the prices range accordingly.Smart home tech is more of a practical housewarming gift, but your friend may appreciate it for that reason. They’ll have likely received more bottles of wine than they can handle and baskets full of food they’ll place in their pantry and forget about. A smart device has a real impact on their homeownership experience.

3. Lend a Helping Hand As a Housewarming Gift

Okay, unlike the other housewarming gift ideas here, this isn’t necessarily a material item. But moving is stressful, and most new homeowners have their hands full with moving companies, expenses and an endless unpacking process. What could be more beneficial than offering your friend a helping hand?

If the new homeowner has kids or pets to worry about, offer to take care of them for a day so they can focus on the house. Help them unpack their kitchen supplies or run to the store for any small items they overlooked. Volunteer your time, and your friends will probably be grateful for their welcome home gift.

You can also help with the big stuff if you’re around for moving day. Book a Dolly to assist with donation boxes or to pick up a new Craigslist buy. It’s the perfect budget-friendly gift for frazzled new homeowners, and it will save everyone on time and labor.

4. Give Practically with Gift Cards

If you’ve scoured similar articles, considered all the conventional options, searched and browsed and still came up with nothing, alleviate the pressure with gift cards — the perfect catch-all idea. There’s no risk you’ll buy your friend something they won’t like because they get to decide for themselves.

You might think that gift cards are too impersonal, or that you’re in some way admitting to your friend you’re clueless over what to get them. This doesn’t have to be the case at all. In the right context, a gift card can show just how much you care.

If you purchase your friend a $50 gift card to their favorite restaurant, you could suggest getting your other friends together and going out for the evening. You can toast to your friend’s new milestone without causing them more financial stress. Similarly, if they have a favorite home furnishing store, a gift card there is a great gesture that shows you care about them and their new home.

Gift cards don’t just have to be for fun, either. For the ultimate flexibility, consider sending a Dolly gift card online. Whenever your friend faces an item they must move, pick up, or donate, they’ll have a helping hand already paid for. It’s a great housewarming gift idea for the friend who has everything.

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How to Choose the Right Realtor

Learn the Lingo and Check Experience

Many homebuyers aren’t aware of the differences between a Realtor and a real estate agent, which can lead to confusion. It’s easy to clarify, as it has less to do with individual responsibilities and more to do with credentials. The professional designation of “Realtor” is a trademarked title.

Realtors have a valid license and a clean record, screened by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) before they receive their title. They adhere to a strict code of ethics and are actively engaged in full-time real estate sales. Basically, the title comes with a certain guarantee of experience and protection for you as a buyer.

You might not want a rookie real estate agent advising you on finding your own home. The expertise of a NAR-certified Realtor with a long history of helping people like you can be invaluable. That being said, these tips on how to choose the right Realtor can help you pick a real estate agent, regardless of whether they’re a certified Realtor or a greener real estate agent.

Call the Realtor’s Clients

While a Realtor might boast six, eight, ten or more years in their industry, you’ll have a deeper understanding of their ability if you reach out to their past clients. A few phone calls could save you considerable frustration down the line.

Prompt any potential Realtors or agents to email you what they’ve recently listed and sold with relevant contact info. Set aside time to speak to their past clients, posing questions about asking price and sales price. New homeowners have recently been in the same boat as you, and are likely happy to offer their input on that particular agent’s experience.

Exercise Caution (No Matter the Experience Level)

Not every real estate agent–regardless of professional credentials or certifications– is looking out for your best interests. Some are only invested in themselves, putting forth the minimal amount of effort and cutting corners where they can. This negligent attitude toward the process often reflects in disciplinary actions and complaints, which are crucial to check for.

You can learn more about Realtor through your state’s regulatory body or a simple internet search. Look long enough, and you’ll sometimes find surprising facts about a professional you would’ve otherwise trusted. Realtors maintain a higher standard of accountability than a real estate agent, but it’s always important to be cautious and do your research when dealing with such a big investment.

Know the Red Flags

In your search for a Realtor, you’ll benefit from a brief checklist of some key considerations. You’ll identify any red flags with less trouble and navigate around potential problems before they escalate into serious issues. Here are several points you’ll need to address when vetting a Realtor:

Are they familiar with the real estate landscape in your neighborhood of interest?

Do they normally work with buyers in your price range, or buyers outside of it?

Do they usually handle the type of property you’re interested in, or something niche?

No two Realtors are alike. They have to meet your specific needs, with relevant experience which lends itself to your unique situation. To make a thorough assessment of their value, the next item on this list is indispensable, and likely something you’ve already thought of.

Hold Interviews with Potential Realtors

To trust your Realtor, you need to establish a dialogue. It’s the first step in the relationship, and getting off on the right foot is important. With this in mind, schedule interviews with three or four Realtors to decide which of them you’d like to work with, preparing your questions in advance.

These interviews are an excellent opportunity to attend to some of the items above. You can ask how long the Realtor has worked in the industry, their success with past clients, areas of focus and other details. Take careful notes and listen closely, using the info you gather for later comparisons.