Are you a newcomer to NYC? And looking for NYC neighborhoods for newcomers? Congratulations! You’ve seized the opportunity to live and work in the City That Never Sleeps and now you’re living your dream. But when the dream becomes reality, you are faced with some real problems you need to deal with. For example – where to settle in? What kind of transportation should I use? Will I have the means to live in this neighborhood? Settling in New York for the first time can make you feel you bit off more than you can chew. And the housing market doesn’t make it any easier. Continue reading “Best NYC Neighborhoods for Newcomers”
Month: May 2022
Tips for choosing the best moving company in Brooklyn
Most of us find moving extremely stressful, time-consuming, and expensive. Companies that offer moving and storage Brooklyn are supposed to make the process smoother, easier, and less stressful. But when we make the wrong choices, things can go south very quickly. This can be a real nightmare when done wrong; especially if we make bad decisions in the hope of saving money or get the wrong advice. Here are five things to consider when choosing the best moving company in Brooklyn for your next move. Continue reading “Tips for choosing the best moving company in Brooklyn”
How to Move a Dresser
Some items are easier to move than others simply because of their size and dimensions. While you can always find a way to load, move, and unload these hefty objects, in some cases, it`s not very safe to do it by yourself. In addition, for outdated, bulky objects, it might be a good idea to throw them away and purchase new ones. We`re not saying you should throw away anything you find difficult to move, but this is an option if you consider buying new things. One of those objects is a dresser, and because most dressers contain mirrors, the situation can get even more dangerous. So, it’s not easy to move a dresser. Besides breaking your dresser, you can even hurt yourself during the process.
Usually, dressers are both large and heavy, which is a pretty disadvantageous situation, especially if you want to perform the entire move by yourself. Still, moving the dresser by yourself is indeed possible if you know the right tricks and conduct the process with extra caution. So, if you want to read about how to move a dresser, check out the following text below.
Decide
Although we already mentioned this earlier, it might be a good idea to rethink the decision whether it would be worth it to move the dresser to your new place. There are a couple of reasons why moving the dresser to your new home might be a bad idea:
- a dresser is too old, worn out, or damaged to be worth moving to another part of the state or country.
- it has no sentimental value and just represents a piece of furniture that will very likely cost you more to move than it would buy a new one.
- a dresser isn`t practical to be worth the hassle and the money related to moving it.
- it will not match the decor of your new place or fit the layout either due to its mismatching design, big size, or an outdated color.
Either way, before we lean into it, you need to decide whether it pays off to actually move your dresser.
Preparation
If you have made up your mind and decided that you truly want to move your dresser to the new home, the next step is to prepare. Make sure to obtain all needed packing materials, so your furniture piece gets the best possible protection to get to your new place in one piece.
Unfortunately, there are numerous risks before you can even load the dresser into the moving van, including carrying it out of your bedroom, down the hall, taking it out of your home, loading it, and finally securing it. Before we start talking about the packing materials, it is very important to clear the way of any possible obstacles that might get in front of you. One of the most important things you need to pay full attention to if you have kids are toys. So, before you start carrying the dresser, clear out the way and keep your kids occupied.
Also, if you have pets, make sure to keep them out of your sight for as long as you need to carry and load the dresser into the moving van (truck). Furthermore, when you arrive at your new home and unload the truck, the same process needs to be done, just in reverse order. Again, and we can`t stress this enough, keep the path clear of any possible obstacles.
Packing Materials and Equipment
Next, you`ll need packing supplies to fully protect the dresser from any possible influence, especially if you have sentimental value and want to make sure your dresser doesn`t get scratched or damaged in any way. Visit some of the best places to find packing supplies in Brooklyn and acquire the packing supplies you need. Packing materials you`ll need include:
- stretch wrap (plastic wrap)
- furniture blankets
- cardboard
- bubble wrap
- packing tape
- masking tape
Besides packing materials, you`ll also need the right kind of moving equipment like:
- furniture dolly, which represents a flat platform made of steel or wood that usually has four wheels under its base. Although its design looks very simple and it might doesn`t seem very helpful, it can make a big difference, help you move easier, and protect floors when moving a dresser.
- furniture sliders are a must. They`re called furniture sliders because they`re specifically made to help you slide the dresser through the house without scratching the floor. Usually, they are made out of rubber or durable plastic and are placed underneath the piece of furniture you need to move.
Get Help
Another important tip that can ease the whole move is to get help in any form you can find. Getting an extra pair is very important, especially if you have no prior experience on the subject, since moving the dresser can result in damage to the dresser itself and injuries usually related to your back (mostly spine). Again, this is no joke since one small mistake, for instance, a slippery floor can cause big problems, where the move will be the least of your concerns. So, how to prevent damage and injuries and lower this risk? By getting an extra pair of hands. Ask your family, friends, and colleagues for help, especially those that have already moved big and bulky pieces of furniture.
And there is no need to rush, meaning that you should take a couple of breaks on the way and have water or juice somewhere nearby. You can repay them by getting pizza for everyone or having a beer after the move is over. However, if your friends don`t have enough time, it is always better to hire professional movers than to deal with everything by yourself.
Hire Professionals
So, if you decide to hire professional moving services Brooklyn, note that antique furniture movers NYC are ideal for moving your expensive furniture, including dressers. But, make sure to explore all available options and compare moving quotes before making the final decision. There are numerous firms to choose from, but remember to only hire companies that accentuate the clients` needs and happily answer any question you might have. Also, check for discounts and avoid moving during the season since this is the time when there are a lot of traffic jams, the weather is extremely hot, and movers are very stressed out, meaning that, in some cases, they will conduct the move in the fastest ( not safest) possible manner.
The Most Common Moving Day Mistakes To Avoid
There’s no doubt that moving is a big change in your life. All the things that should and must be done can easily overwhelm a person, and it’s completely understandable. It’s easy to miss or forget something, and those moving mistakes can delay the move and ruin the whole day. Find out what are the most common moving day mistakes that people make and how to avoid them.
Hiring a random moving company
No matter how much time you have before the move, you shouldn’t skip doing some research before hiring a moving company. Finding reliable moving professionals is like a half job done. The last thing you want is to end up with some extra fees, or even worse, damaged belongings. A good moving company can make your moving day effective and easygoing as any other day.
So, where to start looking?
If you’re wondering how to pick the right mover, we have a few guidelines for you. The best way to evaluate local moving companies is to ask your family members, relatives, or friends if they already had a good experience with some movers. In case they didn’t, you’ll have to look on your own. Search the Internet and compare different deals and packages. Check relevant accreditations and qualifications, and pay attention to ratings and eventual complaints. Any of the quality moving services Brooklyn will offer free moving quotes Brooklyn before making a final deal. If your Brooklyn movers offer full-service packing, then you don’t have to worry about how to pack appliances for relocation. Plus, you’ll get insurance for your stuff.
Failing to take care of utilities
When you move, don’t forget to schedule turning off your utilities on the day that you leave the old place and inform relevant people about changing your address. If you need to transfer your utilities, don’t wait until the last minute. Also, you need to turn on electricity and gas in your new home before you arrive. The last thing that anyone wants after a long day of moving is to run a cold shower or spend some time with a candle.
Delay packing until the last day
Moving requires some time and won’t just happen overnight. If you don’t want to hire packing experts, start with packing as early as you can. If you wait until the last day, you’ll end up surrounded by a pile of incorrectly packed boxes and an all-around mess.
It is important to make a good plan to avoid moving day mistakes. First, you have to decide what things you’ll bring with you. There is a bunch of unwanted or old items in every home. Keep the things that you use, or the things that have sentimental value, and get rid of the items you haven’t used for at least a year. You don’t have to throw them all away, you can also donate or sell them. Fewer items you move mean less money spent on extra boxes, packing material, or a bigger trunk.
When you finish purging, start packing the things you don’t use so often, like books, blankets, season clothes, sets of dishes, etc. As the moving day approaches, pack the rest of your home and wait for the movers ready. Labeling boxes properly is also a must, especially the boxes with fragile items.
Cleaning home on a moving day
Cleaning the old house is important as any other moving-out step. When you move out, you should leave the apt in the same condition as you found it. If you don’t, money can be deducted from your security deposit for a cleaning service. So, be sure that you organize cleaning or painting if it’s necessary without delay.
As you pack things that you don’t use often, clean the empty areas after that. You’ll need less time later when you begin detailed cleaning. Make sure you clean the appliances, floors, ceiling fans, and the bathroom. Start with rooms you don’t use so often, just like with packing. Do not leave cleaning the apartment or scheduling the cleaning service for the last day!
Forgetting to pack an “essentials” bag
Another of the moving day mistakes that people often make is forgetting to pack a moving-day essentials box, for the first day or night in a new home. When you arrive in a new apartment, the last thing you want to do is to open the boxes right away looking for some necessities, like a toothbrush, or sleepwear. An essentials bag should contain some toiletries (like soap, toothpaste, toilet paper, etc.), medications, important documents, clothes for the day after, a phone charger, snacks and water, and everything else that you might need in the first 24 hours in your new home.
Forgetting to prepare appliances
You’ll be surprised how many people forget to unload the dishwasher or washing machine when the moving day comes. You may need to call an electrician or plumber to properly disconnect your appliances. When they are disconnected, clean them thoroughly. Defrost the refrigerator and freezer a couple of days before the move, so that you can dry them out completely. Any moisture left will promote mold, so make sure that every part is dry and clean. A few containers of baking soda can help you with neutralizing any eventual odors.
Skipping a final tour
After a long day of packing and taking care of everything, many people are just too tired or focused on the steps in front, so they easily forget about things left behind. Even if you thoroughly followed every planned step, there’s always a chance that something was overlooked and missed. You don’t want an unpleasant surprise after a few days in a new home when you discover that something is missing, so try your best and take one more step around the old house, before you lock it up for the last time. Check every corner, cupboard, or cabinet, just in case. Better safe than sorry!
Remember that moving doesn’t have to be a terrifying experience, and you don’t have to go through it alone. With the right packing, cleaning, or moving professionals on your side, such as Dorothy Movers, and a proper organization, it can be easy as a pie. Good luck!
The 8 Best States For Retirement in 2022
It is natural that we all look forward to retirement and want to make the most out of it. Therefore, it is very important to choose the right place and the right state to move to. The main factors are safety, affordability, and healthcare. Some states are definitely better than others, especially when you take all three factors into consideration. It might be hard for you to decide which are the best states for retirement because of other factors like climate. Although there are pros and cons of moving to a cold state, most of us prefer sunny weather. Still, it is normal that others want to live in a state that has lots of snow throughout the year.
Besides, some states offer a tax deduction and are generally cheaper.
Another “problem” related to deciding where to retire is that the best states for retirement change every year, so it might be a good idea to check for updates frequently. So, if you want to learn about the best states for retirement in 2022, check out our following list.
1. Hawaii
This might not be a surprise, but Hawaii is probably the best state for you to move to, especially in terms of the general quality of life. With a population of 142000 residents, Hawaii is known for more than 700 miles of coastline full of miraculous volcanoes that can’t be seen everywhere.
Although it might be a bit complicated to move to Hawaii, it is absolutely worth it. Moving to Hawaii will offer you numerous rewards, including access to wonderful beaches, great weather all year round, numerous outdoor activities, and the unique aloha spirit. However, some might argue that Hawaii has probably the highest cost of living in the US. You’d be surprised that healthcare costs are even below the national average.
2. South Dakota
South Dakota frequently ranks as the best state to retire in the US. The average cost of living is more than 4 percent below the national average. With a population of around 880000 residents, South Dakota is a state in which you can enjoy all four seasons and a lot of sunny days. It is well-known for its high quality of life. It has one of the highest numbers when it comes to art, entertainment, and recreation. So, if you want to move to a smaller state, with the cost of living far below the national average, miraculous nature, and very friendly folks, consider moving to South Dakota.
3. Georgia
Georgia, with a population of about 3700000 million residents, is often referred to as the Peach State. It is the third-best state for retirement. The cost of living is 3 percent below the national average, meaning that it is very affordable. It was ranked as the very best state to retire in 2021. Georgia is famous for its subtropical climate and lots of agriculture. It’s also very safe. So if you value a great climate, safety, and affordability, consider moving to Georgia.
4. Tennessee
Tennessee has a population of 6770000 residents and is famous for its country music, southern food, and very beautiful landscape. Moving to Tennessee is great if you want to retire somewhere in the south, and the cost of housing is very affordable. Also, it is very safe, which is a big plus, especially when talking about retirement. Tennessee is among the best states for retirement. It is a very rural and peaceful state which is important for mental health and making sure that you spend your retirement in a quiet area. You can choose whether you want to live in bigger cities that offer many amenities or in rural areas. However, you can choose to live in a rural area close enough to one of the bigger cities, which means you’ll be able to get the most out of both worlds.
5. North Dakota
North Dakota has a population of no more than 700000 residents, making it one of the smaller states in the country. It is officially the fifth-best state to retire in. It is known for its miraculous nature, and the residents are fit and healthy, and relatively prosperous. Also, it has the lowest unemployment rate in the country. Besides being a great place to raise a family in, it’s also a great state to retire in. North Dakota is pretty safe and affordable, and healthcare facilities are highly rated. So, if you are having second thoughts, we can happily inform you that North Dakota is a great choice.
6. Virginia
Virginia has a population of 8509000 residents and has one of the best retirement systems in the country. The only reason it isn’t ranked higher on our list is the cost of living which is above the national average, which might be a dealbreaker for some. Also, it’s a very tax-friendly state for retirees and is also known for beautiful natural scenery. You can choose between bigger cities and more rural areas.
7. Utah
Utah, with a population of more than 3000000 residents, has a lot of advantages if you want to stay active in retirement. It is known for skiing and numerous outdoor activities you can indulge in. Utah has five national parks meaning that it will always be new places to discover. It has something to offer for everyone and is a brilliant choice for sports enthusiasts.
Also, it is a moderately tax-friendly state and is often considered pretty much affordable. The safety rate revolves around the national average.
8. Florida
Florida has a population of 2100000 residents, making it the biggest state on our list. It is among the most popular relocation options for retirees because of the magnificent weather and beautiful beaches. Also, it can save you a bunch of money in taxes since it has no state income tax. There is plenty of outdoor recreation, both urban and rural living, lots of nature, and very friendly folks. So, if you want to retire in the sunniest state, think about Florida.
Whichever state you choose to move to after you retire, make sure you contact reliable long distance movers Brooklyn to help you out. Here, at Dorothy Moving, we specialize in helping seniors move to another state. So, contact us and get free moving quotes Brooklyn on your interstate move.