A Helpful Guide to Moving

If you plan to move, planning ahead can save you time and money. Things like packing and finding a reliable moving company are just some of the ways you can avoid problems. And, depending on your situation, you may be able to deduct moving expenses from your federal tax return.

When you're ready to move, make sure to keep these tips in mind:

Packing

• Instead of packing what you don't use anymore, sell anything you don't need. You can also donate clothes or household items that are in good condition to charity.
• Use recycled packing boxes. Look for unused boxes at local stores or supermarkets. Save the boxes if you have a moving date ahead.
• Write on the box what it contains, for example: kitchen utensils, bathroom towels, tools, cosmetics, etc. This will make it easier to unpack in your new home.
• Use newspaper to wrap any fragile or delicate items.

Choosing a moving company

• Request written quotes from various moving companies so that you can compare rates and services.
• Make sure to pick a moving company that has a number with the U.S. Department of Transportation, known as U.S. DOT #, and check if the mover is properly registered.
• Make sure the company offers damage insurance.
• Check to see if the moving company has a history of complaints by calling your state or city's consumer protection office.
• Thoroughly read over all the terms in your contract, as well as any other documents related to your move, before signing. 

When filing your taxes

• If your move this summer is work-related, you may be able to deduct moving expenses on your next federal income tax return if you meet certain requirements.
• You move close to the date you begin your new job.
• Your new workplace is at least 50 miles farther away from your previous home than your old job location was from that home.
• You work full-time for a specified amount of time after moving.

Call Colleen Santos-Realtor, Equity Real Estate- for more home & moving advice.  801-319-8915

Preparing your home for the summer months

Here are a few home improvement tips you will find useful this year:

1. Change air filters. Some manufacturers say you should change them out monthly. Although we don't know anyone who actually does this, it's worth noting that they do actually work more efficiently when changed out regularly, and that can save money - even though you're spending more on the filters.
2. Change the refrigerator filter. Presumably, you'll be drinking more water when it's hot outside, so change the filter now and improve the taste of your water before you really need it.
3. Buy some decent outdoor furniture. Or fix yours up with outdoor paint. It's easy to do, whether you're dealing with wood, metal, or plastic.
4. Plant something pretty. Wait until it's scorching and you run the risk of floppy flowers. Get info about what to plant when for your climate online.
5. Ditch ruddy throws and blankets. It's time to bring in something light and soft. Even if you're not one who does a big seasonal swap with your furnishings, this easy change out will make your home feel fresh and summery.
6. Change out your backsplash. If it's dark, drab or dated, a new backsplash can give the kitchen a lift without knocking anything major down or adding anything super expensive. Choose something reflective to bounce light around the room if it is a dark space.
7. Clean the carpets. Were you aware that E. coli, salmonella, staphylococcus and other bacteria can live in the carpet? Gross, right? "Research indicates that your carpet probably contains about 200,000 bacteria per square inch, making it 4,000 times dirtier than your toilet seat," said Men's Health. "The average person sheds about 1.5 million skin cells every hour; these skin cells hit the rug and serve as food for germs. Add in food particles, pollen, and pet dander and you have a gratis buffet." A vacuum cleaner might not be able to reach deep down to grab all of those germs, but a professional carpet cleaner will.
8. Plant a vegetable garden. Summer is the perfect time to start eating better. Give yourself an edge with an at-home vegetable garden. Veggies that can be planted in early spring include spinach, kale, radishes, broccoli and peas. "Summer favorites like okra, squash and tomatoes require long, hot days to grow," said P. Allen Smith Garden Home. Get a complete how-to for planting your first garden online.
9. Clean your windows. They're probably gross, and they're also blocking the light.
10. Slap on some solar screens. If you're in a high-heat area and you want to block the sun, solar screens may be the answer. "Solar screens are the most effective window treatments that you can apply to your home for lowering energy bills by stopping the heat transfer through your windows and doors while still maintaining your view," said Lone Star Solar Screens.
11. Take on a project and make it a family affair. Summer fun doesn't have to be relegated to vacations. Want to lay new tile in the kitchen? Take the family to the local big box store for a workshop and then get started. It might just be fun. And even if you have to overcome some occasional (or more than occasional) whining along the way, you'll always have the pride of knowing you did it yourselves once you're done.
12. Build a firepit. You could always buy one, but why should you when you can build one.