Each year, 39 million Americans will pack up and move their belongings, and more consumers are using the Internet to research many aspects of this life-changing event. In fact, some studies show that up to 91 percent of people who move have found helpful information on the Internet. Not surprisingly, the Internet provides a wealth of information on the topic of relocating, and it can be a valuable tool for planning a move, as long as you know where to look, what to watch out for and how to supplement your Internet research. Here are some “dos” for using the Internet to assist in your planning, as well as some “don'ts” to avoid when gathering information.
DO: Use the Internet to research professional Realtors.
- Because buying and selling a home are typically the most expensive and challenging aspects of moving, choosing a certified Realtor can be an enormous asset. The Internet can be helpful in researching real estate companies and allowing you to examine Realtors whose specific “niches” match your needs.
DON’T: Rely on the Internet to choose your Realtor.
- It’s important to meet with Realtors individually and determine which ones best suit your needs based on their success in the area, network of resources to help sell your home and requested commission.
DO: Use the Internet to research moving companies.
- First things first: Obtain some word-of-mouth recommendations from friends, family or your Realtor. Once you’ve made a list of prospective moving companies, contact them by phone to get the full company name and other names it might be known as, the number of years in business, the address and phone numbers, and DOT and MC license numbers. Go to the Web site for your Secretary of State’s office or call the office to ask for the moving company’s Articles of Incorporation. You can use the Articles of Incorporation to verify how long a moving company has been in business, as well as the company's address and owner's name. Schedule at least two in-home estimates, which should be provided free of charge.
DON’T: Rely on the Internet to choose your moving company.
- A moving company shouldn’t be chosen solely based on the attractiveness of its Web site, a fancy ad in the phone book or on cost with little regard to the company’s record or reputation. You also shouldn’t rely on a quote provided sight-unseen over the phone or Internet. When moving across state lines, your charge is based on the actual weight of your shipment and where you are moving. A face-to-face with the mover’s representative is imperative to ensure that you both understand what is involved.
DO: Learn a lot about your new destination via the Internet.
- The Internet gives you the opportunity to “virtually” visit your new hometown by providing access to information such as crime statistics, job opportunities, schools, real estate and parks and recreation. Using a search engine such as Google will provide you with a wealth of information about your new neighborhood.
DON’T: Assume everything you find on the Internet is up to date or accurate.
- Conducting Internet research is only the beginning. It’s necessary to conduct more thorough “in-person” inquiries by making phone calls to schools, walking your new neighborhood, interacting with your new neighbors and relying on your chosen Realtor to guide you on the intricacies of your new neighborhood.
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