ReportWire

Tag: moving

  • The tax implications of moving to Québec – MoneySense

    [ad_1]

    Two tax systems

    Unlike other parts of Canada, you file two tax returns when you live in Québec: a federal tax return with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and a provincial tax return with Revenu Québec. 

    In addition to a federal T1 tax return, you file a provincial TP1 tax return. This alone can add complexity and, in many cases, higher accounting costs—especially if you have a business, significant investment income, or multiple sources of income.

    Québec tax rates

    The tax rates in Québec are relatively high compared to other provinces. This is noticeable particularly at lower- and middle-income levels. The gap tends to narrow at higher incomes, but taxpayers can expect to pay more in Québec than the rates payable in Ontario or western provinces. 

    For example, at $75,000 of taxable income, a Québec resident would pay about $17,000 of tax, ignoring tax deductions or credits. In Ontario, that same taxpayer would pay about $13,600 of tax. In Alberta, it would be roughly $14,100. 

    Tax credits and social programs for families

    Like other parts of Canada, there are province-specific credits and programs that apply. Two appealing ones for families are the Québec Parental Insurance Plan (QPIP) and subsidized daycare program.

    The QPIP replaces federal employment insurance (EI) parent benefits by providing income to parents after the birth or adoption of a child. It is more generous and flexible, and administered through payroll. 

    Income Tax Guide for Canadians

    Deadlines, tax tips and more

    Licensed daycare centres offer heavily subsidized care with a flat fee of about $10 per day. 

    Child benefits—the Allocation familiale (Québec Family Allowance)—is integrated with the Canada Child Benefit (CCB). Québec residents receive a lower CCB in recognition of the provincial benefits provided in that province. The combined total is comparable to what a parent would receive in other provinces. 

    Article Continues Below Advertisement


    Québec Pension Plan for retirees

    The Québec Pension Plan (QPP) complements the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) for retiree pension benefits. Just like an employee or self-employed person in other parts of Canada pays CPP premiums, a Québec worker pays QPP premiums. The two programs coordinate benefits, including retirement pensions. 

    If you worked in both Québec and elsewhere in Canada, and apply for your pension while living outside Québec, you apply to the CPP. If you always worked in Québec but live outside of Québec in retirement, you apply to the QPP with Retraite Québec. 

    Expatriates who retire outside of Canada apply to the Retraite Québec if the last province they lived in was Québec; otherwise, they apply for CPP with Service Canada. 

    Sales tax

    Québec sales tax includes both the federal Goods and Services Tax (GST) and the Québec Sales Tax (QST), as opposed to the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) that applies in some other provinces. 

    QST may apply to some goods and services that are exempt from GST, so there can be some differences versus other provinces. 

    Companies providing services or selling goods in the province of Québec may need to register for and charge QST, despite living and generally operating outside of Québec. 

    Language requirements

    The provincial government and Revenu Québec operate primarily in French, though some English options may be available. This can result in another layer of administration for some taxpayers who are not bilingual. 

    Timing rule

    Like other provinces, your province of residency is determined by where you live on December 31 of the tax year. So, even if you move to or from Québec on December 30, the final day of the calendar year is what determines your tax filing requirements. There is no proration for the year. 

    [ad_2]

    Jason Heath, CFP

    Source link

  • Cat realizes she’s moving home, her reaction breaks owner’s heart

    [ad_1]

    A cat owner from Arizona went viral after sharing her kitty’s reaction to moving home, and internet users can’t cope with the emotional footage. 

    The TikTok clip shared in December by @donutsforbreakfast, shows the cat, Sauvignon Blanc, also known as Sauvi, wandering around her new home, crying, as if feeling out of place and overwhelmed by the move. 

    “My heart,” reads layover text in the clip. “We just moved and she won’t stop wandering the house and crying. She’s been doing this the last 24 hours.” The caption adds: “She’s thinks we are both lost.” 

    The poster, Justine Ramos, told Newsweek that Sauvi had a really hard time with their recent move, but she has now finally adjusted to her new home.  

    “The first day we set her up in a bedroom, and she hid. Then the next day she wanted to explore, and that’s when I took this video,” she said. 

    “She kept wandering around the garage and house and crying (I think we had a lot of her items still boxed up, so maybe the smell was triggering for her). But she did cry like that for about four days, and now she is settled and very VERY happy!” 

    Ramos explained that Sauvi is a very sensitive cat, so they already knew the move would be really tough for her.  

    “I was shocked that this video went viral, and I was grateful for all the supportive comments. Many people shared their moving tips, and I hope that it helps someone else who has a sensitive cat going through a move!” she said.

    Moving home with a cat can be overwhelming for them at first, but there are ways to make the move easier on our furbabies. 

    If they’re an outdoor cat it’s important that you keep them inside for about three to four weeks at the start to avoid confusion or running away.  

    Once this time has passed you can let them out just before their meal time, to ensure they come back motivated by hunger.  

    Go outside first and show them that it’s safe. Do not force them if they hesitate. Leave the door open, even if they’ve always used a cat flap. Start with small periods and build up.  

    The video quickly went viral on social media and it has so far received over 523,200 views and 50,200 likes on the platform. 

    One user, Cardboard_Cult, commented: “My cat was doing the same after we got our house. it just means they are stressed.” 

    Mismysaniti said: “Imagine your old apartment was her whole planet. She is now an earthling on Krypton.” 

    Malij_777 wrote: “This might sound silly but did you explain to her what’s happening?” 

    Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup. 

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • 8 Simple Tips For Unpacking After a Move

    [ad_1]

    Moving into a new home is exciting, but that feeling can quickly be replaced with dread when you’re faced with a sea of moving boxes. Whether you’ve relocated across town or across the country, having a clear plan for unpacking will help you settle in faster. Here’s a practical step-by-step guide to make unpacking after a move as stress-free as possible.

    1. Clean your space before unpacking

    Before you start opening boxes, take time to clean your new home from top to bottom. Even if the previous owners or builders cleaned before you arrived, dust and debris can easily collect during open houses or construction. Wipe down shelves, cabinets, and counters, and vacuum or mop all the floors. It’s also a good idea to sanitize bathrooms and the kitchen before putting items away. A freshly cleaned space gives you a blank slate, and an empty house is easier to clean than one that has already been fully furnished.

    2. Set your furniture up first

    When deciding how to unpack after moving, start by setting up your furniture. Large pieces like beds, sofas, and dining tables define the layout of each room and make it easier to visualize where smaller items will go. Once the big pieces are in place, you can rearrange them to make the most of your space. Getting furniture set up early also helps you feel more settled and establishes a sense of normalcy.

    3. Locate your essentials

    Packing an essentials box is one of the most useful moving hacks any homebuyer can utilize, and this is where that comes into play. Before diving into the main unpacking process, find your essentials box or bag. This contains the items you’ll need immediately, including items from toiletries and medications to chargers and important documents. Having these essentials within reach makes the first day or two in your new home much more comfortable and allows you to focus on unpacking without having to search for key items.

    4. Place boxes in their respective rooms

    As you move your boxes into the house, make sure each one ends up in the correct room. If you labeled your boxes while packing, this step will be straightforward. Putting everything in its designated space from the start keeps your home organized and saves time later since you won’t need to move boxes repeatedly. This also helps anyone assisting you, such as friends or movers, know where things belong without having to ask.

    5. Unpack one room at a time

    A smart approach to unpacking after a move is to focus on one room at a time. It’s easy to get distracted and start opening boxes all over the house, but that often leads to confusion and clutter. Start with one area, finish unpacking it completely, and then move on to the next. This strategy keeps you from becoming overwhelmed and makes it easy to track progress.

    6. Focus on the most important rooms first

    Prioritize the rooms that matter most to your daily comfort. Most people start with the bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen. Setting up your bathroom, kitchen, and bedrooms first will make your home feel livable right away. Once these areas are settled, you can take your time with the rest of the house.

    7. Break down boxes as you unpack

    Anything you can do to reduce clutter during the moving process will make your life so much easier. As you empty boxes, break them down and stack them neatly out of the way. You can recycle them, save a few for storage, or offer them to someone else who’s moving soon and wants some free boxes. Keeping clutter under control as you go makes unpacking feel more manageable and less stressful.

    8. Don’t feel pressured to do everything at once

    Remember that there’s no need to rush a move. It’s perfectly fine to take your time and unpack at a pace that feels comfortable. Tackle a few boxes each day, take breaks, and enjoy the process of arranging your new home. Moving is a huge life change, and unpacking is part of settling into that change. By pacing yourself, you’ll create a space that feels thoughtfully organized rather than hastily thrown together.

    [ad_2]

    Chibuzo Ezeokeke

    Source link

  • Relocating? How to budget for a whole new life – MoneySense

    [ad_1]

    Your first concern is wrapping up your obligations in your current city or town. “I think a lot of people get surprised when it comes to terminating their mortgage,” said Hexter. “They are two years or three years [into a mortgage term] and didn’t realize that, and sometimes it could be a $10,000 to $15,000 penalty. If you’re starting from ground zero, it’s looking at what is it going to cost for you to exit your current arrangements. Are you mid-lease? Are you mid-mortgage? And what are the implications with that?”

    Plan for hidden moving costs and timing gaps

    In terms of the move, if your move-out and move-in days don’t line up very well, Hexter noted that unexpected costs can include temporary storage for your possessions, and hotel or Airbnb costs if you need to stay somewhere. Ask your Realtor for recommended moving companies, he added—their referral might even come with a discount. 

    Otherwise, be wary of the cheapest moving quote; it could be a scam. Check with the Canadian Association of Movers, which has compiled resources and cases of common moving scams, which often start with very low quotes. 

    When moving across a significant distance, not all your furniture might be worth bringing, said Brandon Wiebe, a fee-only financial planner with Money Helps, based in Saskatoon. An upfront cost to consider would be buying new furnishings when you land. There’s also the expense of the travel to get there, whether a plane ticket or the cost of gas if you’re driving.

    Test the lifestyle before committing to a home

    Another landing cost that’s hard to track on a spreadsheet—your support system.

    “One of the bigger things you want to consider is how your support system might change if your friends and family aren’t accessible,” Wiebe said. “That could mean you don’t actually have anyone to help you move. Maybe you were thinking of renovating something that a certain family member could help you with, but you’re not able to do on your own. Or, really, a big one is if you have children and maybe parents were helping out with childcare.”

    You’re 2 minutes away from getting the best mortgage rates.

    Answer a few quick questions to get a personalized quote, whether you’re buying, renewing or refinancing.

    If you are lucky enough to have the option, Wiebe recommends a more cautious, “try it before you buy it” approach to relocating. Rent in the city first, don’t buy right away. If the lifestyle isn’t a good match, reselling a property within a couple years is costly in terms of recouping Realtor and closing fees, he said.

    Wiebe had clients who spent time house-sitting in Montreal to get a feel for the city. “They ended up purchasing and were quite happy,” he said.

    Article Continues Below Advertisement


    Bigger city doesn’t always mean higher costs

    Your projected budget in a new, bigger city shouldn’t always assume it will be more expensive in every aspect. 

    Rural properties, for instance, have their own unique costs, Hexter pointed out—everything from septic tanks to snow-clearing a very long driveway. Property maintenance can be pricey. Property tax rates can also vary widely across the country.

    Some cities can let you live car-free, if they are walkable and have a strong transit system.

    “I think people in Saskatoon may assume that everything is just going to be more expensive [in another city],” Wiebe said. “You know, there may be areas like transit or even the cost of heating your home in the winter where you actually can save money in another city.” 

    Budget smarter with research and expert advice

    As for the local cost of living, everything from groceries to gas, you can research online to understand how expensive your lifestyle may be in a new location.

    Hexter recommends ChatGPT for summarizing reliable sources and cost calculations. You can drop a credit card statement into an AI tool and ask it to project the cost of your lifestyle in another city. Or you can do it yourself—look at your expenses, and research those costs where you plan to land.

    You can also consult with your real estate agent, especially if they have experience with relocating clients. “Lean on your professionals,” Hexter said. “If you’re working with a Realtor, talk to them about moving costs. Real estate agents that have experience in relocation will have the professional partners that can help, and have you ask the right questions, and also maybe uncover any blind spots.”

    Get free MoneySense financial tips, news & advice in your inbox.

    Read more about real estate:



    About The Canadian Press


    About The Canadian Press

    The Canadian Press is Canada’s trusted news source and leader in providing real-time stories. We give Canadians an authentic, unbiased source, driven by truth, accuracy and timeliness.

    [ad_2]

    The Canadian Press

    Source link

  • Moving With Kids: A Guide to Buying and Adjusting to a New Home

    [ad_1]

    Buying a home is one of the most meaningful and complex decisions a family can make. Beyond square footage and price, the right home supports your lifestyle, nurtures your family’s routines, and grows with you over time. From choosing a kid-friendly neighborhood to staging your current home for sale and easing the transition for little ones, every step matters.

    With insight from Nina Spears, CEO and founder of Baby Chick, this guide walks families through the process of finding, moving into, and settling into a home that fits both their current needs and their long-term goals.

    1. Choose the right home for your family’s needs

    When it comes to buying a home for your family, it’s about more than just the number of bedrooms or the price tag. Nina Spears shares how to approach house hunting with kids in mind, from choosing the right neighborhood to finding a home that fits your family. “When you’re house hunting for your family, it’s not just about finding a great house; it’s about finding a home where your family can truly thrive.

    If you have little ones, it’s always a good idea to look for homes that are close to parks and playgrounds. Being near quality schools and childcare not only makes daily life smoother and helps create consistency for your child, which is so important for their sense of security, but it also allows your family to stay rooted as you grow within a great community and school system,” Spears emphasizes.

    “For the home itself, thoughtful layouts make a world of difference. Open floor plans let you cook meals while keeping an eye on your toddler, and the good bones of a house help you transform it into the home your family needs. As you tour properties, pay attention to safety and functionality,” she continues, “features like fenced yards, first-floor bedrooms, and durable flooring can make everyday life easier and safer for young kids. You’ll also want to consider long-term livability, from flexible spaces that can evolve into homework zones or playrooms, to the potential for future renovations that accommodate your family’s changing needs.”

    Real estate considerations when buying a home for your family

    • Proximity to quality schools: Research school districts, zoning boundaries, and future construction plans because these often have a major impact on home values and long-term resale potential.
    • Neighborhood safety and amenities: Look for low-traffic streets, sidewalks, and nearby parks or community spaces that make it easier for kids to play and families to connect.
    • Commute and accessibility: Evaluate drive times to work, schools, childcare, and major highways to ensure convenience within your routine.
    • Future growth and resale value: Ask your agent about neighborhood trends, local development plans, and buyer demand in the area.
    • Layout and flexibility: Choose homes with adaptable floor plans like extra bedrooms, bonus rooms, or finished basements that can evolve as your family’s needs change.
    • Storage and functionality: Prioritize homes with ample storage, such as mudrooms, pantries, and garages, to make family life more organized and manageable.
    • Community and lifestyle fit: Explore the neighborhood for family-friendly amenities like pools, playgrounds, and local events.

    2. Time your move strategically

    Timing your move strategically is one of the smartest steps you can take in the home-buying process. Start by reviewing your escrow and closing timelines, which typically range from 30 to 60 days, to determine when you’ll take possession of the property. Coordinating with your real estate agent is crucial to understanding any contingencies, like appraisal, inspection, or loan approval, that could shift your schedule. If you’re selling and buying simultaneously, consider negotiating flexible closing dates to avoid overlapping housing costs. By aligning every step of your move with your closing process, you’ll ensure a smoother, more predictable transition into your new home.

    Spears emphasizes the importance of timelines during a move, especially when considering your kids. “When you have kids, timing your move can make a big difference in how smoothly everyone adjusts. We all know that babies and toddlers do best with consistency, so if possible, try to plan your moving days around nap times and meals to avoid too much overwhelm. For families with school-age kids, it’s also helpful to think about the school calendar year.

    Moving during a break or summer vacation gives children time to say their goodbyes, process the change, and start fresh in their new environment more smoothly. Of course, sometimes life doesn’t align perfectly, and that’s okay. The most important thing you can do is talk to your kids about it. Home doesn’t always mean a place; it’s the people who make the house a home. The more seen and supported your kids feel, the easier it is for them to adapt. And when they see you excited, that energy helps them feel more confident and hopeful, too. Kids are incredibly resilient when they feel safe, heard, and included in the process.”

    3. Prep your current home for sale with kids in the picture

    When preparing your home for sale, strategic staging makes a major difference in how quickly it attracts buyers, and at what price. Focus on showcasing each room’s purpose while minimizing visual clutter and other personal items that can distract from the home’s features. Storage solutions like baskets, ottomans, or built-ins keep essentials tucked away while maintaining a lived-in feel. In addition to storage solutions, utilizing neutral tones and clean surfaces helps buyers visualize themselves in the space, and well-staged photos can make rooms appear larger and more functional. 

    “I know that selling a home with little ones can feel like a full-time job on top of everything else, but with a little planning and teamwork, you can make it much more manageable for yourself and the whole family,” Spears explains. “I always suggest trying to involve your kids in the process if possible. Even small roles can help them feel included and less anxious about the big changes ahead. Turn decluttering into a game by setting a timer for “clean-up races” or letting your toddler choose which toys to pack first. You can also give them a small box labeled “special toys” that stays out until the very end to keep them comforted and entertained during showings and on the big moving day.”

    Another tip Spears shares is the idea of a “go bag.” “Before potential buyers come by, have a ‘go bag’ ready with snacks, wipes, a blanket, and a few activities so you can step out for a walk or visit the park while your home is being shown. And don’t worry about your home looking perfect. Buyers understand that houses with kids look lived in. The goal is to highlight your home’s layout, flow, and potential, not your daily routine, so buyers can immediately picture it as their own.”

    4. Pack and prioritize the essentials

    When it’s time to move, organization is key to keeping stress low and ensuring nothing important gets lost in the shuffle. Start by packing room by room and clearly labeling each box with both its contents and destination in your new home. Keep essential items, like chargers, toiletries, medications, pet supplies, and a few days’ worth of clothes, in a clearly marked “first-night” box or overnight bag. Store critical documents such as IDs, passports, closing papers, and moving contracts in a separate folder or zippered pouch that stays with you at all times.

    Spears adds that, especially with kids, there are a few extra organizational steps to take to ensure low chaos. “Packing for a move with kids takes a little extra strategy and a lot of snacks. I always recommend creating a dedicated “essentials bag” or “comfort box” for each child that stays with you (not on the moving truck). Fill it with their favorite toys, books, pajamas, a change of clothes, a stuffed animal, and anything that brings them comfort or keeps them entertained. It’s also helpful to pack a small box labeled “Open First – Kids” with bedtime essentials like sheets, their nightlight, and any must-haves (like babyproofing or safety items) for that first day and night in the new home. Finally, keep your own “family go bag” handy with snacks, a first-aid kit, and any medications so you’re not rummaging through boxes when everyone’s tired and hungry. These small preparations go a long way in making your move feel less chaotic and a lot more comforting for everyone.”

    5. Settle into the new home quickly

    Once the moving trucks pull away, settling into your new home quickly helps you start enjoying your investment and makes the transition feel seamless. Begin by unpacking essentials first, like kitchen items, bedding, and bathroom supplies, so daily routines can resume right away. Take time to walk through the property, test appliances, note any needed repairs, and familiarize yourself with key systems such as the HVAC and circuit breaker. Updating your address for mail, utilities, and homeowner’s insurance ensures everything runs smoothly from day one.

    “One of the best ways to help your family adjust is to reestablish familiar routines as quickly as possible,” Spears shares. “Start by setting up your child’s sleep space first with their same bedding, nightlight, and comfort items. This helps them feel safe and signals that even though the surroundings are new, their routines stay the same. Keep mealtimes, naps, and bedtime rituals consistent. Those predictable rhythms bring comfort and stability during times of change.” 

    “I also recommend trying to balance the unpacking with moments of connection with the family,” Spears adds. “Sit down together for meals, take a family walk around your new neighborhood, or let your kids help choose where their toys or books go in their room. These little moments together create familiarity and joy amid all the change and (sometimes) chaos. And don’t worry about getting everything unpacked right away. Your home doesn’t have to be all put away to feel welcoming. What matters most is that your children feel safe, loved, and grounded as you all begin this new, exciting chapter together.”

    6. Plan for the long term

    When choosing a home that will grow with your family, it’s important to think beyond your immediate needs and consider how the space will serve you in the years ahead, as well as how it will appeal to future buyers. Location is key: Proximity to quality schools, parks, and walkable neighborhoods can enhance both your lifestyle and your home’s long-term value. A property that balances comfort, practicality, and investment potential ensures your family and your finances are set up for the future.

    “As your family settles in, start thinking about how your new home can grow and evolve right alongside you. Look for ways to make your spaces flexible, a nursery that can later become a playroom or homework nook, or a guest room that can eventually transform into a cozy teen hangout,” Spears adds. “If you have outdoor space, imagine how it can support different seasons of family life, from baby blanket picnics to backyard soccer games to a garden your kids help care for. These small choices make your home feel like a living part of your family’s journey.”

    Spears emphasizes the importance of building connections beyond your home walls. “I can’t stress this enough. Get to know your neighbors, explore local parks, and find community groups or activities that make everyone feel like this truly is home. Those friendships become your support system, your village, the people who show up with a cup of coffee, a playdate, or an extra hand when you need it most. When your home supports your family’s needs and your community nurtures your spirit, you’ve created something truly special: a place that holds your memories, milestones, and the beautiful, ever-changing story of your family.”

    FAQs about moving with kids

    1. How do you make moving with kids less stressful?

    The key to a smooth move is preparation and communication. Talk to your kids early about what’s happening and involve them in simple tasks like packing or labeling boxes. Keeping routines as consistent as possible, especially meals, naps, and bedtime, helps kids feel secure during the transition.

    2. What’s the best way to plan a move?

    Start planning several weeks in advance and create a clear moving timeline. Work with your real estate agent to confirm closing and move-in dates, then schedule movers, school transfers, and utility setups accordingly. 

    3. How can parents help kids adjust to a new home?

    Once you’ve moved in, reestablish familiar routines right away. Set up your child’s room first with their usual bedding, nightlight, and toys to make the new space feel comfortable. Spend time exploring your neighborhood together and introduce your kids to nearby parks, schools, and neighbors to help them feel at home faster.

    4. When is the best time to move with kids?

    If possible, plan your move around your family’s natural breaks — such as summer vacation or between school semesters — to minimize disruption. Early mornings or weekdays often work best for younger children, giving you more daylight to unpack and settle in before bedtime.

    5. What are some real estate considerations when moving with kids?

    When house hunting, look for homes near quality schools, parks, and safe, walkable neighborhoods. Ask your Redfin real estate agent about local zoning, school ratings, and commute times. A home that fits your family’s daily needs will make the adjustment smoother for everyone after the move.

    [ad_2]

    Wesley Masters

    Source link

  • moveBuddha Moving Abroad Survey: More Americans Are Trading Moving Trucks for Passports

    [ad_1]


    ATHENS, Ga., October 22, 2025 (Newswire.com)
    –
    More Americans are starting to ask questions about what life could look like somewhere else.

    A new survey from moveBuddha finds that nearly 1 in 10 Americans is actively researching a move abroad, with nearly 60% reporting they’ve considered leaving the country at some point. This is a clear sign that international relocation is no longer just a passing daydream, but something people are seriously exploring.

    To understand what’s behind this rising interest, moveBuddha surveyed more than 1,000 U.S. residents in September 2025. The results point to a quiet shift in how Americans think about where and how they want to live.

    The responses point toward a practical motivation; many are looking for a place where life feels stable, affordable, and easier to manage day to day.

    Key Takeaways

    • Nearly 60% of Americans have considered moving abroad.

    • 1 in 10 respondents is actively researching an international move.

    • Cost of living (34%) is the top factor Americans consider when choosing a country to move to, followed by financial security (11%) and political stability (9%).

    • Europe (38%) is the top region for moves abroad, while Canada (24%) tops the list of individual countries, except among Gen Z, who favor Japan.

    • America’s high living costs (64%), healthcare access (63%), and crime/safety (59%) are the primary reasons respondents might consider moving abroad. Lifestyle or cultural factors matter much less.

    More people are taking the idea of moving abroad seriously – and not for adventure, career moves, or retirement.

    They’re running the numbers. Reading expat blogs. Comparing countries. Asking if life might be simpler elsewhere. While few are actively relocating, many are exploring international options.

    “We’ve helped thousands of people move across the country for all kinds of reasons – to chase a job, start a family, or just get closer to the beach. But, what we’re seeing now is very different,” says Ryan Carrigan of moveBuddha. “With rising costs, job uncertainty, and concerns about healthcare and safety, more people are looking for somewhere that just feels livable.”

    The survey aligns with moveBuddha’s report on Which States Google Moving Abroad Most, examining state-level Google searches about where Americans are most curious about moving abroad, and reveals the motivations and specific countries Americans would choose if they could move abroad right now.

    Top Country Destinations:

    Country

    %Respondents

    Canada

    24.4%

    England

    12.2%

    Japan

    11.2%

    Ireland

    9.0%

    Switzerland

    8.2%

    France

    6.5%

    Costa Rica

    6.4%

    Mexico

    6.1%

    New Zealand

    6.1%

    Thailand

    4.1%

    Germany

    3.4%

    Portugal

    2.4%

    Why This Matters Now

    From unaffordable rents to healthcare hurdles, Americans are increasingly evaluating their options through a global lens. In some cases, a new passport is starting to feel like a better path to peace of mind than a new zip code.

    With cost pressures, climate events, and political anxieties continuing to impact Americans’ sense of safety and opportunity, international relocation may start to look less like an escape and more like a rational next step.

    Source: moveBuddha LLC

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • The Surprising Secret of Success, from Nobel Laureates: Move Around More

    [ad_1]

    Have you ever wondered where most Nobel Laureates are from? If so, the Nobel organization website helpfully provides both their birthplaces and academic affiliations at the time of their awards. If you start browsing, you may notice a pattern. The world’s most revered scientists are an incredibly mobile bunch. 

    Most of us have heard the story of Polish born Marie Curie’s move to France or Einstein fleeing Europe for the United States. But they are only the most famous of the many, many Nobel laureates who moved from country to country and institution to institution. One analysis of 21st-century Nobel winners showed a full 40 percent of laureates who did their prizewinning work in the U.S. were born abroad. 

    Does this just reflect that the best and the brightest can work where they please? Or do the mobile lives of Nobel laureates have anything to teach the rest of us about how to be more creative and successful? 

    A new study into these questions and came to a fascinating conclusion: if you want to come up with more and better ideas, you should probably move more.  

    More moves leads to quicker success 

    Ohio State University labor economist Bruce Weinberg has spent much of his career studying innovation. Where do important ideas come from? How do they spread? And how can we encourage more of them? If these are your questions, Nobel laureates are an excellent group to study. 

    And not just because they’re the source of some of the most impactful ideas. They’re also famous. Which means it’s possible to dig up detailed information on their lives. 

    Which is just what Weinberg and his colleagues, John Ham, a professor of economics at New York University in Abu Dhabi, and Brian Quistorff of the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis did for a recent study published in the journal International Economic Review.

    Reconstructing the biographies of Nobel laureates in chemistry, medicine and physics from 1901 to 2003 yielded an interesting pattern. The more these scientists moved from place to place, the earlier they came up with the groundbreaking ideas that won them the Nobel.  

    If, for instance, a scientist changed location every two years, they started their Nobel-worthy work an average of two years earlier. Time and place were irrelevant. The pattern held whether they were a chemist in 1916 or a medical doctor in 2001. 

    “For someone who might have taken ten years to begin their prizewinning research if they stayed in one place, moving every two years could reduce that time by nearly a quarter. That is substantially accelerating their innovations,” Weinberg commented. 

    Why new places lead to new ideas

    As anyone who has ever changed jobs can tell you, settling into a new role in a new place is difficult and time-consuming. At first your productivity suffers. So why did moving around make Nobel laureates more successful, more quickly? 

    The researchers believe switching locations does have costs. But it also comes with a huge compensatory benefit. In each new location scientists are exposed to new people and new ideas that can advance and inspire their work. 

    “Really interesting work happens when people combine ideas in novel ways,” Weinberg explained on the Curious by Nature podcast. If a young scientist moves from Boston to New York or London, say, “they’re going to be exposed to a different set of ideas than the ones they already have.” 

    That means they “can mix them up in a novel way relative to other people who hadn’t just made that transition.” 

    Does this work for nongeniuses too? 

    Which is fascinating, but what does it have to do with us nongeniuses who aren’t regularly being invited to CERN for research collaborations? Is it likely these findings apply beyond the rarified world of Nobel Laureates? 

    Weinberg and his collaborators believe they do (more on exactly how later). Plus, theirs is not the only research suggesting that physically moving can have a much bigger effect on our life trajectories than we think. 

    National Geographic journalist Dan Buettner studied the world’s happiest places for 15 years for his book The Blue Zones of Happiness. His conclusion: “There’s no other intervention anybody can tell me about that has that dependable and lasting impact on happiness than your geography.” 

    Similarly, where a child grows up has a surprisingly large impact on how their life turns out. When data scientist and author Seth Stephens-Davidowitz analyzed research on the biggest factors influencing kids’ life outcomes, he found, “the best cities can increase a child’s future income by about 12 percent.” 

    That’s not just because parents in some neighborhoods have more resources than in others. The same family tends to have substantially different outcomes in different places. “I have estimated that some 25 percent–and possibly more–of the overall effects of a parent are driven by where that parent raises their child,” he reports in the Atlantic. 

    Can’t move? Nobel laureates can still teach you a lesson.

    Where you live matters an incredible amount for how your life turns out no matter who you are. 

    But that being said, Weinberg acknowledges, “most people just aren’t going to move, uproot their family and [say] ‘honey, pack up the boxes and pack up the kids and let’s go somewhere completely new.’”

    But you can still use his study of Nobel laureates to nudge you towards new ideas and greater success. Moving around accelerates innovation because it exposes people to fresh ideas and contacts. “Exposing yourself to novel combinations of ideas, novel sets of ideas, ideas that other people aren’t getting exposed to is really the key,” Weinberg underlines. 

    Moving is one way to do that. But there are alternative ways to bring fresh inspiration into your life: 

    “Reading something that you wouldn’t ordinarily read, talking to a different set of people than you would ordinarily talk to, going to see a lecture or a movie or a piece of art that you wouldn’t necessarily expose yourself to is a way of seeing things and learning things that you wouldn’t naturally have come across.” 

    Be like Nobel laureates: seek novelty

    University of Chicago economist Stephen Levitt once set up an unusual experiment. He solicited people on the internet who were struggling with a decision to let him decide with a random coin toss. 

    Surprisingly, 20,000 people agreed to leave a big life decision to chance. When Levitt followed up to see how things turned out, he discovered people were much happier when the coin flip had told them to do something new — to quit that job, start that venture, or get that tattoo. 

    “I believe that people are too cautious when it comes to making a change,” Levitt concluded. 

    Which is the practical takeaway of this new study of Nobel laureates too. If your life is such that a new adventure in a new place is just a U-haul drive away. Then by all means, start packing. The lives of celebrated scientists suggest you will be more creative and successful if you move more. 

    But if you have kids in school, a mortgage to pay, or a business to think of and can’t go to a new place, you can still up your chances of having breakthrough ideas. Just add more new people and new ideas to your life. That will almost certainly increase your odds of success no matter who you are or what you’re aiming for. 

    The opinions expressed here by Inc.com columnists are their own, not those of Inc.com.

    [ad_2]

    Jessica Stillman

    Source link

  • Couple flees gun violence in US—now they’re thriving n Europe

    [ad_1]

    After experiencing a drive-by shooting in Kansas City, 37-year-old Sam Correll decided he was “just done” with the U.S. It was the summer of 2024, and 60 days later, he and his partner, 29-year-old Spencer Claiborne, had sold their home in Missouri and moved to Europe.

    They are among more than 1,000 Americans who have expatriated over the past year—a phenomenon that has been on the rise since the beginning of the year. Roughly 1,285 U.S. citizens left the country in the first quarter of 2025, according to a report from CS Global Partners, which analyzed statistics from the U.S. Federal Register. That is about 102 percent more than in the last quarter of 2024. 

    Should Americans continue to leave the U.S. at that pace, 2025 could mark a record in the number of U.S. citizens relocating abroad—an exodus that could put the country’s economy in trouble.

    Leaving the Midwest for a Small Country in Europe 

    Correll and Spencer had considered leaving the U.S. for a while before the event that prompted them to decide the time had come for their big move. 

    “I was actually at a cheesecake factory picking up a piece of cheesecake to take to a friend in the hospital, and there was a drive-by shooting during prom season,” Correll said. “I got knocked over from the stampede of kids running away from the shooter outside. And I was just there, like, ‘What are we doing? It’s time for a change,’” he said. 

    Correll and Spencer swapped Kansas City—the city of the Chiefs and Taylor Swifts, as their European friends know it—for Albania, a country that was not on their radar when they started their search for a new home away from home.

    “We went to Portugal, Malta, Italy, Spain, the U.K., and had a great time, but we didn’t really click with a specific city or anything,” Correll said.

    Then they learned that Albania offers Americans 12-month visa-free travel on arrival. “It’s a really, really easy destination to leave and then figure it out as you go, as opposed to someplace like Portugal or Italy.”

    That made the difference for Correll and Claiborne, who were able to depart their previous life behind quickly—leaving their first home, which they had bought in Kansas City in 2019.

    “It was a historic stone cottage that, during the COVID-19 pandemic, we really poured a lot of heart and soul into,” Claiborne told Newsweek. “I like to say it was like a child. We had finally gotten it all finished and it was exactly what we wanted—and that was the point in which we were selling,” he said. 

    Claiborne was a little hesitant at first to let it all go, “Like, man, we just spent all this time and effort and energy to make our house perfect,” he said. “But I wasn’t going to let that hold us back.”

    Now Claiborne, who is talking to Newsweek from their sun-kissed terrace in Albania with views of the sea, “can’t imagine a better place to live.

    Striking Out on Their Own—by Helping Others Do the Same

    Both Correll and Claiborne left good jobs behind—one was a tech consultant working with global companies, the other sold accounting software and helped large companies implement enterprise systems.

    But one of the things they love about living in Albania is that the work culture there is not nearly as demanding as in the U.S. 

    “The U.S. is just so work-oriented. You wake up before the sun rises, you get in your car, you commute to work, you work, and then you go home after the sun sets, and maybe you have a couple hours of television,” Claiborne said. 

    “And I think as I got more into the kind of rut and routine of a corporate career, I realized that’s not something that was going to make my soul feel happy for another 30, 40 years,” he added. 

    The lower cost of living in Albania, as well, has helped to make up for some of that lost income.

    While Claiborne and Correll worried about taking a pay cut and striking out on their own, they found something they love doing in Albania: helping others who might want to leave the U.S. through their company, Smile Abroad.

    They started with an idea to open a dental tourism business there, but that quickly morphed after they realized, through Facebook and Reddit, “the sheer number of people that were feeling similar to the way that we were feeling, especially as this year progressed and as the new administration came into power,” Correll said.

    The couple has been receiving five to 10 calls a day for months from people seeking urgent assistance in “getting out” of the U.S. A Reddit post discussing their experience moving to Albania has garnered nearly 500,000 views as of now.

    Through the business route opened up by their new initiative, they were able to apply for residency. “It’s very straightforward for Americans. The requirements are very minimal, to be frank. It’s a very easy path,” Correll said. “This is up to the immigration office, but oftentimes Americans are issued five-year residency permits upon their first application.”

    Thriving in a Different Culture

    Correll and Claiborne have been pleasantly surprised by Albania, a place where the first question someone asks you upon meeting you is not, “What do you do?” they said. They have found the peace of mind they were seeking in disconnecting from the U.S., which now feels a world away.

    “I think I was having a conversation the other day with an Albanian friend of mine trying to explain the concept of food deserts, which is something that we have a lot in America, where there’s no grocery store, no access to fresh food within walking or driving distance of a lot of homes,” Claiborne said. “That’s just not a concept here in Albania. There’s fresh fruits, fresh veggies.”

    The couple have found a thriving community of digital nomads and expats, and they have been trying to mingle with the locals. 

    “It’s also been wonderful to disconnect from the noise and the chaos that’s going on in the United States,” Claiborne said. “One of the things I like to tell people when they have a consultation call with us is that, after you get out, a lot of people do what we did—which is you kind of sleep, you kind of hibernate for like a month,” he explained. 

    “And then you come out of the fog and you’re free from the noise. You can hear fireworks in the distance without ducking, thinking it’s gunshots. And you can kind of relax and enjoy life. And so that’s definitely been what I think we’ve gained from this.”

    Surprisingly, both think they have been made more patriotic by living in Albania. “Hearing our language teacher talk about how, during communism, it was the voice of American news, the Radio Free Europe, that alerted them to the fall of Yugoslavia. You know, it’s really opened my eyes to the good that America and Americans do and have done across the globe,” Claiborne said.

    But neither is thinking about going back to the U.S. anytime soon. “I think prices are too high. Of course, never say never, but I’m very happy being in Albania now,” Claiborne said. 

    “I very much appreciate and love the country that I was born in, but it’s in a dark spot right now. And for my mental health, at least, it’s not a place that I want to be,” Correll said.

    Read the full interview with Sam Correll and Spencer Claiborne:

    What is your name, and what do you do?

    Claiborne: My name is Spencer Claiborne. I am 29 years old and I am now a relocation consultant helping people move to Albania. Before this, when I lived in the United States, I sold accounting software and helped large companies implement enterprise systems. So quite the career change.

    Correll: I’m Sam Carell. I am 37 years old. I was a tech consultant in the U.S. working with global companies, building their websites and the back end of that sort of thing. And since moving to Albania, I still do a little bit of that, but we are largely helping people relocate to Albania.

    When did you decide to leave the U.S.?

    Correll: We had thought about this for a few years. We’d talked off and on, we wanted to look for something new. In late 2023, early 2024, we took a three-month scouting trip throughout Europe. We dove into YouTube and decided, these are potential countries we might find a home in. We went to Portugal, Malta, Italy, Spain, the U.K., and had a great time, but we didn’t really click with a specific city or anything.

    “It solidified, at least for me, that we definitely wanted to leave the Midwest, but we didn’t have the right spot yet. So we went home. After being there a couple of months, I was actually at a cheesecake factory picking up a piece of cheesecake to take to a friend in the hospital. And there was a drive-by shooting during prom season. I got knocked over from the stampede of kids running away from the shooter outside. And I was just there, like, ‘What are we doing? It’s time for a change.’ And I think that really was a springboard for us to, like… Take action, list our house, and leave. And 60 days later, we were in Albania.

    Did you have any reservations about leaving the U.S.?

    Claiborne: No, not really. My family was very supportive. But we had a home in Kansas City which we had bought in 2019, and it was our first home. It was a historic stone cottage that during the COVID-19 pandemic, we really poured a lot of heart and soul into. I like to say it was like a child. And so, we had finally gotten it all finished and to be very, very nice and just exactly what we wanted. And that was the point in which we were selling.

    “I think I was a little hesitant, like, man, we just spent all this time and effort and energy to make our house perfect. But I wasn’t going to let that hold us back. I think that was basically it, honestly, is the house. But I’m much happier here. I can’t imagine a better place to live, being able to wake up and look at the sea.”

    Now you’ve set up a business to help other Americans move to Albania. When did you realize there was a market for this?

    Claiborne: Our intention wasn’t to build a business to help Americans move abroad. We actually started a business to help people with dental tourism in Albania, and we still do that. Hence the name [of our website] Smile Abroad, it was going to be about dental tourism. But it really morphed into something more than that when we realized, especially through Facebook and Reddit, all the sheer number of people that were feeling similar to the way that we were feeling, especially as this year progressed and as the new administration came into power. That they really wanted to get out.

    “And what makes Albania uniquely attractive, especially for Americans, is that they can get 12 months visa-free travel on arrival. So it’s a really, really easy destination to leave and then figure it out as you go, as opposed to someplace like a Portugal or Italy, where you have to do a lot of work in the States, a lot of coordination before you even land. For a lot people, this has been an urgent concern. And Sam has been taking five, 10 calls a day for months now from people that really need urgent assistance in getting out.

    What have you gained from this move?

    Correll: I can tell you what I’ve lost, and that’s about 70 pounds. Definitely peace of mind, happiness. Look, I was having a conversation the other day with an Albanian friend of mine trying to explain the concept of food deserts, which is something that we have a lot in America, where there’s no grocery store, no access to fresh food within walking or driving distance of a lot of homes. That’s just not a concept here in Albania. There’s fresh fruits, fresh veggies.

    “I think we’ve also found a community of a lot of other nomads and expats and local friends. And also just, it’s been wonderful to disconnect from the noise and the chaos that’s going on in the United States. One of the things I like to tell people when they have a consultation call with us is after you get out, a lot of people do what I did, which is you kind of sleep, you kind hibernate for like a month. And then you come out of the fog and you’re free from the noise. You can hear fireworks in the distance without ducking thinking it’s gunshots. And you can kind of relax and enjoy life. And so that’s definitely been what I think I’ve gained from this.

    Claiborne: The U.S. is just so work-oriented. You wake up before the sun rises, you get in your car, you commute to work, you work, and then you go home after the sun sets, and maybe you have a couple hours of television. And I think as I got more into the kind of rut and routine of a corporate career, I realized that’s not something that was going to make my soul feel happy for doing, you know, for another 30, 40 years.

    “And while I definitely worry sometimes about taking a pay cut and striking it out on our own and doing our own thing, I have been much more satisfied with both the ability to help people really transform their lives by moving abroad and by the wonderful work-life balance that’s offered here in the Mediterranean. And also the lower cost of living here in Albania helps make up for some of that lost income.

    Would you ever consider going back to the U.S.?

    Claiborne: I’m never gonna say never, we have a long life ahead of us. And I love America. I think moving to Albania has actually made me more patriotic and more appreciative of America and what it stands for across the world. You know, hearing our language teacher talk about how during communism, it was the voice of American news, Radio Free Europe, that alerted them to the fall of Yugoslavia. It’s really opened my eyes to the good that America and Americans do and have done across the globe. That being said, in the near term, I don’t see returning. I think prices are too high. Of course, you know, never say never, but I’m very happy being in Albania now.

    Correll: I very much agree with that. I’m not gonna write it off. Like, I very appreciate and love the country that I was born in, but it’s in a dark spot right now. And for my mental health, at least, it’s not a place that I want to be.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • Video of dog vs cat reacting to moving apartment has internet in stitches

    [ad_1]

    Moving to a new home can be stressful, and when you add pets into the mix, it can feel overwhelming trying to help them adjust, but, as one owner experienced, each pet reacts differently.

    Abi, who is known on TikTok as @abi.and.their.thoughts, recently moved to a new apartment with their Jack Russell Chihuahua and cats. In the midst of the empty home and boxes, the owner quickly noticed their two pets reacting differently.

    The August 30 TikTok video shows the small dog running around the apartment with a giant smile on her face. Her tail wagged with excitement at the new territory. The owner, however, couldn’t keep up with her, asking the dog to please stop for a moment.

    Then, the camera panned to the side of the room as the owner checked in on the cat. Unlike her happy doggy sibling, this cat wanted nothing to do with the move. She stayed glued to the back of the cat carrier, refusing to come out.

    Newsweek reached out to @abi.and.their.thoughts via TikTok for additional information and comment.

    The owner shared in the comment section that while the dog looked beyond excited about the new space, she ended up puking in the only carpeted room of the house.

    What surprised this owner was the cat. Another comment revealed that the cat, Charlotte, does not normally have an issue with moving. This time was different. She hid in the carrier all day before exploring a bit at night. Then, she went back to hiding in the closet with the other cat, which again caught the owner off guard as these felines “hated each other” before the move.

    When it comes time to settle into the new home, it may be tempting for you to let your dog or cat loose and explore. However, an article from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) stated that the new and unfamiliar space can be overwhelming.

    Instead, start by letting them explore one room at a time. Be sure to keep their favorite toys, treats, water and food bowls in the room or “home base” area. As they become comfortable, gradually introduce them to other rooms while keeping other doors shut.

    For cats, you’ll want to relocate the litter box to a more permanent location by slowly moving it over time. The article suggested moving it one foot each day. Slow and steady wins the race to get them feeling like themselves in their new home.

    Viewer Reactions

    With over 1.6 million views on TikTok as of Wednesday, the internet was left in stitches over the cat and dog’s reactions to the move, calling it “extroverts vs introverts.”

    “The dog is like, ‘There’s so much more room for activities! You should’ve got rid of everything sooner!’” joked a viewer.

    Another added: “The dog was like on a loop.”

    Meanwhile, someone else pointed out: “Kitty needs 5-10 business days.”

    Screenshots from an August 30 TikTok video of an owner experiencing two different reactions from a cat and dog during their move to a new apartment.

    @abi.and.their.thoughts/TikTok

    Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend, and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • Moving exposes your personal data to scammers

    [ad_1]

    NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

    Downsizing should feel like a fresh start. A smaller home, less upkeep, maybe even a retirement community with new friends. In fact, more than 3 million elderly Americans move every year. Are you considering downsizing as well?

    One woman told the internet about moving her mother into an assisted living home. Before the boxes were even packed, her mother fell for two back-to-back scams. It wasn’t bad luck; scammers had picked up on her address and pounced.

    This isn’t rare. Researchers have found that over 70% of cybercrimes trace back to exposed personal data. And moving creates one of the biggest exposures of all. Real estate listings, moving companies and address changes get scooped up by data brokers and published online, the perfect setup for criminals to strike.

    Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
    Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide – free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter.

    REMOVE YOUR DATA TO PROTECT YOUR RETIREMENT FROM SCAMMERS

    PODS moving truck and employee outside residential home, Queens, New York. (Lindsey Nicholson/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Image)

    How moving puts your personal data at risk

    When you buy, sell, or even just change your address, your information spreads across multiple systems:

    • Real estate records (public by default)
    • Utility company logs
    • Postal forwarding data
    • Transaction history and home value.

    Data brokers scoop all this up. Then they bundle it, resell it and suddenly your new life stage is an open secret. That’s exactly what scammers look for.

    10 SIGNS YOUR PERSONAL DATA IS BEING SOLD ONLINE

    Front Door with Delivery Boxes

    Cybercriminals look into multiple databases to gain information about a move. (iStock)

    Common scams that target you when downsizing

    Here’s why moving makes seniors a hot target:

    • Identity theft: Pair your new address with your date of birth (easy to find online), and thieves can open accounts in your name.
    • Cash-rich scams: Selling a house can make you look like you’re sitting on cash. Fraudsters know this.
    • Phishing tricks: Fake “utility setup” calls asking for your Social Security number.
    • Harassment: A new address published online can attract unwanted attention.

    Think of it this way: while you’re busy unpacking boxes, criminals are unpacking your data.

    HOW TO HAND OFF DATA PRIVACY RESPONSIBILITIES FOR OLDER ADULTS TO A TRUSTED LOVED ONE

    How to avoid becoming a moving scam victim

    Removing your data can protect you from cyber scams. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    How to protect your personal data when you move

    While moving creates new opportunities, it also creates new risks. These simple steps will help you lock down your personal data before scammers can exploit it.

    1) Remove your info from data broker sites

    Data brokers automatically update your file when you move. That means your new address, phone number and even property transaction details can end up on people-search websites almost overnight. Once your profile is out there, scammers can buy or scrape it with ease.

    The good news: you don’t have to chase down every broker yourself. A personal data removal service does the legwork for you, contacting data brokers, demanding removal and following up to make sure your new details don’t creep back in. Think of it as hiring a moving company for your personal data.

    While no service can guarantee the complete removal of your data from the internet, a data removal service is really a smart choice.  They aren’t cheap, and neither is your privacy.  These services do all the work for you by actively monitoring and systematically erasing your personal information from hundreds of websites.  It’s what gives me peace of mind and has proven to be the most effective way to erase your personal data from the internet.  By limiting the information available, you reduce the risk of scammers cross-referencing data from breaches with information they might find on the dark web, making it harder for them to target you.

    Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com.

    Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com.

    2) Use the official USPS form only

    When you change your address, always use the official USPS website or your local post office. Some third-party sites look like they’re offering a convenient service, but they often collect extra data about you and sometimes even resell it. Going straight to the source means your sensitive details don’t take unnecessary detours.

    3) Watch real estate disclosures

    When you sell your home, more than just the price gets published. Your name, past addresses and even photos of your home can become part of the public record. Ask your realtor what’s automatically disclosed and whether anything can be limited or redacted. It’s worth being picky here: the less of your personal footprint that’s tied to your property, the better.

    4) Shred old paperwork

    Moving is the perfect excuse to purge. But don’t just throw out old bills, medical statements, or financial records; shred them. Dumpster-diving for personal data may sound outdated, but it’s still a method scammers use. A good shredder ensures your sensitive history doesn’t end up in the wrong hands.

    5) Share moving news privately

    It’s tempting to post a “Goodbye, old house!” photo online, but resist the urge. Publicly announcing a move tells scammers exactly when your home is empty and what your new address might be. Instead, share the news directly with family and close friends. A little less buzz online means a lot more safety offline.

    6) Freeze your credit before and after moving

    One powerful way to stay ahead of scammers is to freeze your credit. A freeze blocks new credit accounts from being opened in your name, even if criminals have your address or other details. The good news is that you can do this for free with all three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.

    It only takes a few minutes online or by phone, and you can lift the freeze anytime if you need to apply for a loan or credit card. By freezing your credit before and after your move, you create a strong barrier that keeps thieves from turning stolen data into financial damage.

    CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

    Kurt’s key takeaways

    Moving should feel like a new beginning, not an invitation for scammers to strike. With a few smart steps, you can stay ahead of data brokers and fraudsters. From shredding documents to freezing your credit, every action adds a layer of protection. By protecting your information before and after your move, you gain peace of mind and start your next chapter on solid ground. The effort is small compared to the security it brings.

    Should more be done to stop companies from exposing and selling our personal data? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

    Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
    Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide – free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter.

    Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com.  All rights reserved.

    Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • Let’s Get Moving Makes a Move to The Woodlands

    [ad_1]

    The following content is sponsored by Let’s Get Moving. A master-planned community first established in 1974, The Woodlands takes its name from the 28,000 forested acres where it was developed…

    [ad_2]

    Cynthia Barnes

    Source link

  • How to Decide Where to Live: 9 Key Factors to Consider

    [ad_1]

    Deciding where to live is one of life’s biggest decisions. The right location influences your career, finances, daily routine, and long-term happiness. Whether you’re moving across the country to a home in Washington, DC or just across town in Topeka, KS, knowing what to look for can make the process much easier.

    This guide covers the most important factors to consider from affordability and job opportunities to walkability and nearby amenities, so you can feel confident about your move.

    How to decide where to live

    Before you start comparing cities, think about what you really want from your next move. Consider your goals, career plans, and the kind of community that fits your lifestyle.

    Your stage of life matters, too—whether you’re looking for a lively city to meet new people or a quiet place to retire.

    Personality and preferences should guide your choice. If you thrive on nightlife, a small town may feel too quiet. If you dread humidity, Florida probably isn’t for you. Factoring in lifestyle pace and climate may seem obvious, but prioritizing these personal needs first will help narrow your search.

    9 factors to consider when choosing a location

    1. Cost of living

    Affordability should be at the top of your list. The cost of living in each city or neighborhood can vary widely and includes housing, groceries, healthcare, and utilities. A higher salary may not go as far in an expensive city. Use a cost of living calculator to compare areas side by side like Memphis vs Nashville and see which location best fits your budget.

    2. Budget

    Whether you’re buying or renting, start by figuring out how much house you can comfortably afford. Run a few quick budget calculations to see what’s realistic, and remember to leave room for the lifestyle that keeps you happy and healthy.

    3. Job market and career opportunities

    The strength of the local job market can impact both your income and your lifestyle. Research employment rates, major industries, and opportunities in your field. If remote work is an option, you’ll have more flexibility, but you may still want to factor in time zones or access to co-working spaces if you thrive on collaboration. To get a sense of what’s happening locally, explore city neighborhood guides.

    4. Climate and weather

    Weather affects your daily comfort and activities. Some people love four distinct seasons while others prefer a mild, consistent climate. Consider whether you enjoy outdoor recreation year-round or prefer cozy winters and sunny summers. Your tolerance for humidity, rain, or extreme temperatures should guide your decision.

    Read>> The 10 Cities With the Best Weather in the U.S. Ranked

    5. Safety and environment

    Feeling safe in your community is essential. Look into crime rates, local safety programs, and environmental conditions such as air and water quality. Many neighborhood profiles provide this information, along with insights from residents, so you can feel more confident about your choice.

    6. Quality of education

    If you have a family or plan to in the future, schools will play a major role in your choice. Research school district rankings, test scores, and extracurricular offerings. Strong schools often boost property values and make a neighborhood more desirable. On Redfin listings, you can see school ratings and boundary information to help guide your decision.

    7. Proximity to family and friends

    Being close to loved ones can provide a strong support system and improve your quality of life. Proximity to family and friends may mean easier childcare, shared holidays, and more opportunities for social connection. While some people are comfortable starting fresh in a new city, others find that staying near their personal network makes a big difference in feeling at home.

    8. Commute and walkability 

    Your daily commute has a huge impact on your lifestyle. Think about how close you’ll be to work, schools, grocery stores, and other essentials. Walkable neighborhoods and cities with strong public transportation systems can save time and money, while suburban or rural areas may require longer drives. Look at the Walk Score of your potential neighborhood to understand how convenient it is to get around without a car.

    Read>> The 10 Most Walkable Cities in the U.S., Ranked

    9. Amenities and lifestyle perks 

    What makes you feel at home? Some people prioritize coffee shops, gyms, or restaurants, while others value parks, trails, and cultural venues. Make a list of your must-have amenities and compare them across different areas. Redfin’s neighborhood guides highlight local amenities, dining scenes, and recreation so you can choose a place that fits your lifestyle.

    How a real estate agent can guide your search

    Knowing you want to live in a certain city is a great first step, but narrowing it down to the right neighborhood can be tricky. A real estate agent with strong local expertise can provide insight into market trends, highlight differences between areas, and share details you might not find online. By understanding your priorities, they can recommend neighborhoods and homes that best meet your needs.

    FAQs: How to decide where to live

    1. What is the most important factor when deciding where to live?

    The most important factor depends on your lifestyle and priorities. For many, affordability is the top concern, while others may prioritize safety, schools, or proximity to work. Balancing the cost of living with personal needs is often the best approach.

    2. How do I choose between two cities?

    Start by comparing cost of living, job opportunities, and commute times. Then think about lifestyle factors such as climate, walkability, and amenities. Visiting both cities in person can also help you decide which feels like a better fit.

    3. How does cost of living affect where you live?

    Cost of living determines how far your income will stretch in a specific location. Even with a higher salary, living in an expensive city may leave you with less disposable income than living in a more affordable area.

    [ad_2]

    Kierra Todd

    Source link

  • Moving Out of Your Apartment? Here’s How to Write a 60 or 30-Day Notice to Vacate Letter

    Moving Out of Your Apartment? Here’s How to Write a 60 or 30-Day Notice to Vacate Letter

    [ad_1]

    There comes a time in every rental agreement when you want to move out. Whether you’re moving across the country, buying your first home, or simply looking for more space, you’ll need to follow a few steps before your lease ends. And sending your written notice to vacate letter is one of those steps.

    Outlined below are all the essential details you need to know about writing your notice to vacate letter, including why it’s important and what it needs to include. From protecting your security deposit to keeping a good relationship with your landlord, we’ve got tips and tricks to keep your move-out easy. Plus, we’ve provided a simple template to make things even easier for you to check this off your to-do list.

    What is a notice to vacate letter?

    A notice to vacate letter (aka lease termination letter) is a formal letter a tenant writes to their landlord or property manager to end their lease agreement. It’s an important legal document that protects the tenant and serves as proof they sent their notice within the required time frame. It also gives the landlord ample notice and enough time to find a new tenant or make other plans for their rental property. 

    The tenant should include their contact information, intent to end the lease, and the date they wish to vacate. In most cases, a landlord or property managers require a notice to vacate letter from their departing tenants. But even when not needed, it’s a good idea to send one anyways.

    Is a notice to vacate letter the same as an eviction notice?

    Confusingly, an eviction notice is sometimes called a “notice to vacate.” But generally, a notice to vacate letter is sent from a tenant to a landlord, whereas a landlord can send an eviction notice to a tenant if they violate the terms of the lease agreement. 

    Landlords can also send a “no-cause notice to vacate letter” to a tenant. This is not a credit-destroying eviction notice, though it can also be called a “no-cause eviction notice.” Instead, a no-cause notice is a notice of non-renewal. In other words, your landlord can decide not to offer you a new lease agreement. This is usually the case when a landlord plans to sell or renovate the property. 

    Do you need to give a 60 or 30-day notice to vacate?

    In most cases, you need to provide some sort of notice that you intend to end your lease. Some landlords require you to provide written notice. Some are less formal and ask for an email or phone call. Whatever the case, always get a receipt or confirmation when your landlord gets the notice. Failure to provide proper notice can result in fines owed to your landlord.

    The notice period you’re required to give depends on your municipal and state laws. In most cases, 30 days’ notice to vacate is required for long-term leases. But 60 days is also common, though less popular. On the other hand, some cities don’t require such advanced notice. In Seattle, WA, tenants only need to give two weeks notice and only seven days are required in Raleigh, NC..Always double-check your lease agreement as well as state and local laws to ensure you know and follow the rules. Following what your landlord prefers usually makes things easier for you.

    How much notice do you need to give for a short-term lease?

    A short-term lease, sometimes called a tenancy-at-will agreement or a rental agreement, follows similar rules. A rule of thumb here is that a tenant should provide notice of at least one billable period before they wish to vacate. So in a month-to-month lease, you would need to provide one month’s or 30 days’ notice. In a week-to-week lease, seven days notice is usually enough.

    person writing a notice to vacate letter template

    Notice to vacate letter template (tenant to landlord)

    You can use the template below as a guideline when writing your formal notice to vacate. Keep in mind that the “reason for leaving” section is optional. If your reason for leaving has nothing to do with your landlord, it’s nice for them to know. For example, if you currently live in an apartment in Seattle, WA, and are moving out-of-state, you can consider saying, “I’m not renewing my lease, because I’m moving to Boston, MA, for my new job.”

    If there was an issue with the apartment, this isn’t the best place to bring it up for the first time. You can include information about an ongoing problem if you want to, but it’s not required.

    Below is a sample letter template for a 30 or 60 notice to vacate:

    [Your Name]

    [Street Number, Apartment Number]

    [City, State, Zip]

    [Your Phone Number]

    [Your Email Address]

    [Today’s Date] 

    [Landlord or Property Manager Name]

    [Landlord or Property Address]

    [City, State, Zip]

    Dear [Landlord or Property Manager’s Name],

    In accordance with my lease, I am writing this letter to provide a [number of days] notice that I will move out of my apartment [rental property address and unit number] on [move-out date].

    (Optional) I am not renewing my lease because [reason for leaving].

    Please contact me via [preferred contact method] to schedule the final inspection. Please send my security deposit of $[amount] to my new address: 

    [New address or forwarding address]

    If you believe the security deposit should be deducted for any reason in accordance with our lease agreement, please send me an itemized list of costs. 

    You’re welcome to [call or email] me with any questions. 

    Sincerely,

    [Your name]

    [Signature]

    How to send your written notice to vacate letter

    Email is the most convenient way to send your notice to vacate letter, but you can also hand over a physical copy of your notice to vacate letter or mail it to their preferred address. If you want to be extra diligent when handing in your letter, you can ask your landlord to sign a receipt of notice. It’s a great idea to send a  follow-up email to your landlord a week or two after sending your lease termination letter, especially if you haven’t heard from them regarding the inspection.

    tenant typing a lease termination letter to give to their landlord

    6 tips to consider when writing your intent to vacate letter

    1. Read your lease agreement again

    There’s likely a paragraph or two about the proper way to notify your landlord about moving out. Sometimes an email is acceptable, or your landlord has a preferred template. You’ll also want to note your security deposit amount and any special terms in the agreement.

    2. Include the date

    Whether you use this template or a template provided by your landlord, the date is very important. That’s what proves you met the requirements for adequate notice — the 30 or 60 days required by your lease. 

    3. Be kind and straightforward

    Consider your letter a professional courtesy and a future investment. If you continue to rent, you may need a landlord recommendation or two in the future. This is an opportunity to continue to stand out as an excellent renter. 

    4. Make your new address and contact information prominent

    You want to make things as easy as possible for your landlord to return your security deposit. Be sure to make your new address legible and prominent for your landlord in your letter.

    5. Make scheduling the walkthrough easy

    If there’s an issue with the condition of your apartment, your landlord or property manager will point it out during the final move-out walkthrough. And you want to be present to make sure you know what your landlord is noting.

    6. Know the rules for breaking your lease early

    If you’re breaking your lease, you’ll likely have to pay an additional fee. Sometimes you have the right to terminate early, like for medical reasons or military deployment. Follow the rules, document everything, and work with your local tenant’s rights office for guidance.

    moving boxes for moving out of a rental unit

    What if I change my mind about moving?

    If you change your mind, you can reach back out to your landlord or property manager to see if you can still renew your lease. Just know that you don’t have the right to renew your lease after you’ve sent your letter (unless local laws allow it).

    But that’s no reason not to ask your landlord or property manager if your current apartment is still available to rent again. Most of the time, it’s easier and cheaper to keep a renter in place rather than find a new one. And many landlords are happy to keep a renter they have a good relationship with.

    What are the next steps after sending the notice to your landlord?

    After sending a proper notice to vacate to your landlord and establishing your move-out date, there are a few additional things you can expect.

    The unit may be shown to prospective tenants

    Your landlord may ask for the right to show your apartment where a prospective tenant does a walkthrough. Your landlord is supposed to arrange showing times in advance, usually at least 24 hours. In some cases, you have the right to refuse a showing. Try to work with your landlord to create a showing schedule. For example, you can give them the most manageable days and times for you. This will maintain a good landlord-tenant relationship.

    Schedule your move-out inspection

    Your inspection should take place after you’ve moved out all or most of your stuff. If you have cleaning responsibilities, it’s best to have the walkthrough after you’ve cleaned. During the inspection, your landlord will check the apartment’s condition and point out anything they think is outside normal wear and tear. This is also an opportunity to discuss any repairs beforehand and gives you a chance to address them. Always ask for an itemized list of repairs to prevent any disputes with the security deposit. 

    Move into your next place

    Now it’s time to unpack those boxes. You’ll also want to update your mailing address with your bank, student loan company, and other important entities. It’s also a great idea to set up a mail forwarding address, which you can do easily online through the USPS website. And don’t forget to update your voter registration. 

    Receive your security deposit back

    As long as you leave your apartment in good condition, your landlord must return the security deposit within a specified time period according to the rules in your state. Generally, it’s between 15 and 60 days, but it’s a good idea to review local laws. Be sure your landlord knows where to send it and how to get in touch with you if they have any questions.

    [ad_2]

    Chibuzo Ezeokeke

    Source link

  • What are Administration Fees When Renting an Apartment and What Do They Cover?

    What are Administration Fees When Renting an Apartment and What Do They Cover?

    [ad_1]

    The process of renting an apartment comes with a laundry list of tasks and fees. From the application fee to the move-in fee and security deposit, it can seem like a never ending list of expenses before you even finish moving in. Most of these charges are straightforward, but administration fees are a bit more vague. It’s worth it to take time to get familiar with standard administration fees and what they cover, along with local landlord-tenant laws, so you understand what your landlord can and cannot legally charge you as a tenant.

    What are administration fees? What do they cover? How do they differ from other fees? This Redfin article answers all those questions and more. It’s important to understand these fees whether you’re renting a two-bedroom apartment in Louisville, KY or a studio in Seattle, so let’s get straight to it.

    What is an administration fee for an apartment?

    Landlords charge tenants an administration fee to help mitigate the risk they take when pulling the unit off the market in case the prospective tenant doesn’t work out. The intent is to cover the landlord’s time to process the application, and is often considered a deposit to secure the apartment.

    If your application is approved, the fee is non-refundable. If your application is denied, you should receive a refund for the application fee, minus any charges for the credit and background check.

    How is the administration fee different from a move-in fee or a security deposit?

    It’s easy to confuse the administration fee, security deposit, and move-in fee, as all of them are paid prior to moving in. We’ll walk through what’s involved with each one so you can approach any apartment application process with the correct information and budget expectations.

    Administration fee

    The administration fee pays for the landlord or property manager’s time and effort to process your application and hold the apartment for you. This fee typically ranges between $50–$350; some states regulate the amount landlords can charge to prevent unscrupulous behavior or rental scams.

    Check your local landlord/tenant laws for specific information about fees that apply in your state. Though the administration fee is typically non-refundable, some landlords may credit the administration fee towards your first month’s rent.

    Move-in fee

    The landlord charges a move-in fee to cover costs for any light maintenance and touch-ups they make before a new tenant moves in. These may include repainting, carpet cleaning, or changing the locks. This fee is usually between $150–$350, which may be negotiable and is usually non-refundable. This fee is separate from the administration fee and is different from any fees charged when you move out.

    Landlords do not always charge a move-in fee. Some use the previous tenant’s move-out fee to pay for any repairs and other work needed to get the apartment rent-ready for the next tenant. The move-out fee, assessed at the end of your tenancy, pays for any damage above normal wear-and-tear of daily life in the apartment and usually comes out of your security deposit. For example, if a pet chews up the carpet, you may be charged for its replacement.

    Security deposit

    The security deposit is the amount you pay at the start of your tenancy to cover any damage beyond regular wear and tear. The landlord can also use it to cover the rent if you leave without paying the last month’s rent. The security deposit is assessed upfront, while a move-out fee is charged at the end of your tenancy and is considered a separate fee from the move-in fee or the administration fee.

    The security deposit is usually the same amount as your first month’s rent and helps protect the landlord from any damage you may cause to their rental property during your tenancy. The amount can vary but is regulated by landlord/tenant law in each state. For example, if you scratch the wall during the move, stain the carpet, hang a TV and damage the drywall, or cause damage to window screens or blinds, the cost of those repairs will be deducted from the security deposit. The balance remaining after any damage is assessed should be returned to you within a set time frame in accordance with local laws.

    A black-handled key in a key hole

    How much are administration fees?

    An administration fee is typically a one-time fee and ranges between $50–$350. Renters usually pay this fee after they are approved for the apartment and sign the lease. However, landlords can decide when to charge administration fees.

    When are they paid?

    Administration fees are paid at some point prior to the move in date. Some landlords may apply administration fees to the cost of running a background and credit check, which is paid at the time of application. Landlords could also add them to the first month’s rent. This would be paid when you get approved for the apartment.

    Are administration fees refundable?

    You could get it back if your application is denied. In most cases, you will not receive a refund for your administration fee. The landlord may consider the administration fee to be the same as the application fee, which would be non-refundable. Whether or not the landlord needs to refund the administration fee is determined by local landlord/tenant law. When considering your budget for an apartment, it’s best to include the administration fee as something you’ll pay and not get back.

    Can administration fees be negotiated?

    Landlords and property managers may not be inclined to negotiate the cost of the administration fee, but it doesn’t hurt to ask. A landlord may be willing to give up what they need to invest in qualifying a potential renter. They are legally required to screen each potential tenant 18 years of age and older, so the administration fee covers that process. They are not required to negotiate on the fee amount.

    Are administration fees legal?

    In most states, it’s legal to charge administrative fees. Some states limit the amount and how many different fees a landlord can charge prospective tenants, for example

    • In New York and Wisconsin, landlords and property managers can only charge a $20 application fee. In California, landlords can only charge an application fee, anything more can only be considered as part of the security deposit which is limited to two months’ rent.

    In Vermont and Massachusetts, landlords cannot charge an application fee.

    [ad_2]

    Chibuzo Ezeokeke

    Source link

  • How to Seamlessly Relocate Your Business to Another State | Entrepreneur

    How to Seamlessly Relocate Your Business to Another State | Entrepreneur

    [ad_1]

    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Starting and establishing a business is challenging, but the endeavor seems almost impossible when you decide to start over again in another state.

    I don’t mean opening an out-of-state location but moving your business from one state to another. My company has helped scores of business owners who want to relocate. The key is to tackle the process step-by-step.

    Whatever your reason for moving, starting over in a new state requires detailed planning, in-depth research and patience. Here’s what to consider if you’re thinking about moving your business.

    Related: 6 Critical Considerations Before Relocating Your Business to Another City

    Do your research

    Before making any move, it’s crucial to do your research. Consider any legal and regulatory concerns. Make sure you understand the new state’s steps for business formation, employment, licensing and tax requirements.

    Then, define the specific reasons you’re relocating. Are taxes an issue? While nine states (Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington and Wyoming) currently don’t levy an income tax, you need to find out about any local business, sales, property, and franchise taxes required by the state.

    Are you moving to a state with a lower cost of living (COL)? These expenses are defined as “the cost of maintaining a certain standard of living,” including housing, food, transportation, taxes, healthcare and more. The COL varies by state and fluctuates by city, so don’t eliminate a state based on the costs in one specific location.

    Accessing market trends and opportunities in the states you’re considering moving to is also critical. Consumer demographics, market competition and economic indicators can impact your success. Compare statistics on industries and business conditions across the U.S.

    Every state touts the availability of skilled labor, but the reality of your business’s ability to attract and keep the right talent will vary. What are the prevailing wages for your type of business? Some companies benefit from being located near a college, which provides a pipeline of potential employees. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce keeps tabs on where the labor shortage is hitting hardest.

    Also, consider your company’s infrastructure needs. Depending on your business, concerns such as transportation, access to suppliers and availability of distribution centers may impact operations. Contact state and local economic development agencies for information about infrastructure and resources.

    Many locales may meet your business criteria. However, they also need to fit your quality of life requirements. Does the state provide the healthcare, education and lifestyle options you need? Is the climate to your liking? Can you find the type of housing that suits your personal situation?

    Related: Relocating Your Company? Don’t Make These 10 Moving Mistakes.

    Business domestication

    We typically recommend that entrepreneurs who own LLCs and corporations domesticate (or redomesticate) their companies. This means your business ceases to exist in its state of formation and only exists in your new location.

    Only 31 states and Washington, D.C. allow domestication. Each state has its own rules and processes. Check with Secretary of State offices to see which states allow domestication and their requirements.

    Generally, the domestication process works in a specific order: You apply for domestication in a new state and then dissolve your company in your current home state. The process to domesticate entails getting the approval of all board members, applying for Articles of Domestication or Articles of Continuance and providing a Certificate of Good Standing and a copy of the application for Articles of Dissolution from your former state. Once approved, you’ll file Articles of Dissolution in your former state. You must pay any outstanding fees or taxes.

    Domestication has several benefits:

    • You don’t have to change your Federal Tax ID Number (Employee Identification Number/EIN).
    • There’s less paperwork and tax consequences.
    • Your business can keep its credit history.
    • You’ll save money since you won’t have to pay for annual reports and fees incurred by doing business in multiple states.

    If your corporation or LLC wants to keep your old state as your state of formation or conduct business in both states, you must file for a foreign qualification in the new state. While every state has its own process for foreign qualification, you can usually file online for a Certificate of Authority and pay a fee.

    Maintaining multiple locations means you must designate a registered agent in the state you are not headquartered in. This person must have a local address and the authority to accept legal documents and government notices on your behalf.

    Sole proprietorships and partnerships

    Moving your business is less complex if it’s a sole proprietorship or partnership. There’s still a process you must follow:

    • Cancel local business licenses and permits and apply for new ones in your new state.
    • Pay any outstanding fees and taxes.
    • Withdraw any assumed names (Doing Business As/DBAs) from your Secretary of State’s office and apply for the DBA in your new location.
    • If your business bank does not have branches in your new state, close your bank accounts.
    • Inform the IRS of your new business address.
    • If you move mid-year, you must pay taxes in your new and old states.

    Related: Patagonia Gave 90 Staff a Choice — Relocate Across the U.S. or Leave the Company. They Got 3 Days to Decide.

    HR considerations

    When you decide to relocate, it’s essential to tell your staff as soon as possible and that you be transparent, honest and empathetic. It’s best to hold an in-person meeting, allow time for questions and provide a timeline for the move.

    Do you plan to offer your team the opportunity to move with you? Most small businesses cannot afford to pay employee relocation expenses, which typically cost thousands of dollars. Will you offer them the opportunity to work remotely?

    If not, consider offering them severance and/or job transition assistance. If you know local companies looking for talent, offer to make introductions. And make sure you provide employees with letters of recommendation.

    Taking the required steps to ensure a seamless transition will help ensure a smooth start in your new location.

    [ad_2]

    Nellie Akalp

    Source link

  • How to Rent with an Eviction on Your Record

    How to Rent with an Eviction on Your Record

    [ad_1]

    Did you know that there are roughly 1.5 million eviction rulings in the United States each year? If you’re part of that 1.5 million, you may be wondering if it’s even possible to rent with an eviction on your record. How long do evictions stay on your record? And how can you find apartments with eviction forgiveness?

    This Redfin article will answer these questions and more. Whether you’re looking for an apartment in Madison, WI or looking to rent a house in Las Vegas, NV, we’ll provide 12 tips for finding your next rental home, regardless of your eviction history.

    What is an eviction?

    An eviction is when a landlord forces a tenant to leave a property. Tenants can be evicted for violating terms in their lease, such as failing to pay rent on time, staying in the building past the end date of their lease, or having a pet when the building doesn’t allow renting with pets. You might also be evicted because the building needs to undergo lead removal or another procedure which requires tenants to move out.

    How to find out if you have an eviction on your record

    Because evictions are legal proceedings, they’re included in your legal record. They also show up on your rental history report and your background check. To see if you have an eviction notice, you can request a copy of your rental history report from a reputable credit reporting agency. You can also run a background check on yourself for any signs of poor rental history.

    If you have a prior eviction on your record, don’t worry. There are still ways you can find your next rental home.

    How to rent with an eviction on your record

    1. Try to get the eviction removed from your record

    The first thing you should try if you have an eviction on your record is to have it removed from your record. This will make it much easier to rent future apartments or homes, regardless if you’re wanting to rent an apartment in Miami, FL, or a rental home in San Jose, CA. If your eviction was due to owed rent or other costs where you were delinquent in payment, you can offer to pay off past balances to have your eviction erased. You can also have your eviction removed from your record if the eviction was done illegally, such as not giving you enough notice.

    2. Talk to your previous landlord

    Chat with your previous landlord and offer to pay any outstanding balances. In some cases, property managers may be lenient and may even agree to erase the eviction from your record if past debts are resolved. They may even be willing to provide you with a positive reference for your new apartment.

    3. Improve your credit score

    Most landlords look for their tenants to have a credit score above 670 and higher. The higher your credit score, the more likely your landlord is to discuss your previous eviction to better understand the circumstances and get a complete picture of you as a renter. Plus, they’ll trust you more to pay rent in full and on time if you have a good financial track record.

    Some ways to get your credit score up quickly include paying off past debts, especially high-interest ones like credit card debt. If you have only one or two lines of credit, you may consider opening another line of credit too, as that can improve your score. Lastly, avoid using more than a third of your credit limit every month. For example, if your credit limit is $3,000, keep your credit spending to $1,000 per month, and make sure you pay it off in full to ensure that your score continues to climb.

    4. Offer to pay higher rent

    Paying more rent each month won’t just pad your property manager’s pockets, it will make you a more attractive renter. By saying you’re willing to pay higher rent each month, you’re telling your potential landlord that you are a financially responsible renter. That can go a long way, though they will probably want proof of your income or assets to prove you can afford paying higher rent.

    Tenant receiving eviction notice in the mail

    5. Obtain references

    Another great way to showcase yourself as an attractive renter is to list letters of reference in your apartment applications. You may want to consider asking an employer or even a previous landlord for a reference. They can vouch for your ability to pay rent in full every month, as well as your ability to be a respectful tenant.

    Your references can write letters for you, or you can list their emails or phone numbers alongside their names in your rental application. Make sure that they are prepared to make the case that your eviction was a one-time thing that won’t ever happen again. After all, property managers want to hear that you’ve corrected your past actions and that you’ll be a responsible tenant going forward.

    6. Create a renter’s resume or cover letter

    Creating a renter’s resume or cover letter is a great way to showcase your strengths as a renter. You should treat a renter’s resume like you would treat a resume for a job; make sure it is typed, organized, and that it makes the best case for you as a renter.

    Some things to include in a renter’s resume or cover letter are your name, contact information, monthly income, and employment history, just like you would include in an employment resume, and reasons why you would make a great renter. This should help strengthen your case.

    7. Be transparent and offer an explanation

    Your new potential landlord will definitely want to know about the eviction on your record. If you can, explain your eviction as honestly and clearly as possible on the phone, in person, or in a cover letter.

    After explaining your eviction, remember to make a case to your new landlord about why and how you’ll be a great tenant going forward. For example, if you were evicted because you had a problematic pet, offer to introduce your pet to the landlord. The bottom line is that the landlord wants to know exactly what happened and what you’re going to do to make sure it will not happen in their rental.

    8. Consider renting from a private landlord

    Private landlords are just people who manage their own rental properties, rather than having a property management company do it for them.

    Private landlords are often more understanding of past evictions, or they may even own apartments with eviction forgiveness. In general, renting from private landlords is a more personal experience than renting from a management company, which can work in your favor if you have an eviction on your record.

    You can find properties owned by private landlords on social media sites as well as public marketplaces. Just be careful to vet the property beforehand to make sure that it is not a rental scam.

    9. Get a guarantor, co-signer, or roommate

    Another way to strengthen your case is to get a guarantor, co-signer, or roommate who has excellent credit and doesn’t have an eviction. If a landlord knows that you have someone who is willing to back you up, they will be more likely to believe that you will be a reliable renter. Also, they will be reassured that you will pay rent in full and on time. 

    10. Offer to pay monthly rent in advance for a new apartment

    One way to make your case as a potential renter with an eviction is to offer to pay rent in advance for a new apartment. If you can offer your new property manager the first two or three months’ rent up front, they will be much more likely to trust that you are serious about the apartment and that you’ll be a reliable tenant.

    11. Offer to pay a higher deposit

    No matter the reason for your eviction, offering to pay a higher security deposit can really strengthen your case as a prospective tenant. In order to make the most attractive offer, you’ll want to pay a few months rent up front as a deposit. It may be expensive, but paying a higher deposit is one of the best ways to make your case.

    12. Find apartments that accept evicted tenants

    Since renting to evicted tenants presents obvious risks for landlords, it can be hard to find apartments that cater to people with an eviction on their record. However, it’s not impossible. Some landlords and private property managers are willing to overlook past evictions.

    Tenant researching for apartments that accept evictions

    How to get an eviction off your record

    Whether you are renting in Minneapolis or Tampa, there are some ways you can go about getting an eviction removed from your record. You may need to call multiple people to have your eviction removed from all of your paperwork, such as your legal record and credit report.

    1. Pay or settle your rental debts

    First, as mentioned earlier, offer to pay or settle your past rental debts with your previous landlord. Then, they may be willing to remove the eviction from your records.

    2. Ask to have collections removed from your credit report

    Having collections removed from your credit report can help your credit score as well as potentially remove traces of your eviction and any other debts from your record. There are two ways you can have collections removed from your credit report. You can either ask for a goodwill deletion if you’ve paid off the outstanding debt, or you can dispute it if the collection on your report is an error.

    3. Ask to have the eviction removed from your tenant-screening reports

    Tenant screening reports are sometimes used by landlords to see if they want to rent to you. If you have paid off your debts with your previous landlord or reached another settlement, you can ask them to remove the eviction from your tenant screening reports. You may need to follow up with a collections agency too to confirm that your landlord sent any owed balance to collections.

    4. Dispute errors

    As we noted above, in the event that an error was made by your landlord, credit bureau, or collection agency, you can dispute the errors to have the eviction removed from your record.

    There are many ways an error can be made in the eviction process. For example, your landlord may not have given you proper notice of the eviction or filed the appropriate paperwork. Also, credit bureaus and collection agencies may report charges in an incorrect amount or possibly make another error.

    To have your eviction removed from your record, you can dispute any errors made with your landlord, credit bureau, collection agency, or other company. If you can get the eviction removed, getting a rental will be a lot easier.

    5. Take your eviction to court

    If you believe you were wrongfully evicted, you can take your eviction to court to have it removed from your record, such as if you were wrongfully evicted due to discrimination, which is in violation of the Fair Housing Act

    You can take your eviction to court if your landlord violated any rules regarding evictions. And if you win, your eviction should be removed from your record.

    FAQs about renting with an eviction on your record

    Does an eviction hurt your credit?

    An eviction won’t directly impact your credit score. However,  if you were evicted for past-due rent or other unpaid balances, that can hurt your credit. Additionally, if late payments have been sent to collections, that can really take a toll on your credit score.

    How long do evictions stay on your record?

    Once you are evicted from a property, that eviction stays on your record for at least seven years and up to ten years if any past-due balances were sent to collections. The records that show your eviction are typically included in your background check, tenant screening report, rental history report, and credit report. And because eviction rulings are made by local courts, the eviction goes on your legal record.

    What should I do if my credit report includes an inaccurate eviction?

    If an eviction is listed on your credit report by mistake, the best thing to do is to file a report with the credit reporting agency. You’ll need evidence that the eviction is listed on the report by mistake, along with proof of your payment history.

    The bottom line on renting with an eviction

    Although it isn’t easy to rent with an eviction, there are many ways to navigate how to rent with an eviction on your record. And, there are plenty of ways to have the eviction removed from your paperwork as well.

    [ad_2]

    Chibuzo Ezeokeke

    Source link

  • Earning, saving and spending money in Canada: A guide for new immigrants – MoneySense

    Earning, saving and spending money in Canada: A guide for new immigrants – MoneySense

    [ad_1]

    Getting started

    To get started, here’s an overview of what you need to know about moving to Canada, working in Canada and building a good credit history. 

    The more you know about Canadian money, savings and housing, the better prepared you’ll be. You can even do certain steps—such as opening a bank account—before you arrive. Learn about this and other personal finance topics, including key details about preparing to buy a home in anywhere in Canada.

    Finding a job and earning an income soon after arriving in Canada can contribute to your success. We explain who can legally work here, how to apply for a work permit, how to find credible job postings and what details to look for in a job offer. We also tell you about non-profit organizations that help immigrants find work, sign up for free English classes and more

    Moving to Canada or new to the country? These six major cities have many job opportunities in different fields—plus we look at the cost of living in each.

    From tech to health care, Canada offers plenty of jobs for newcomers—and many of them are included in national and provincial express entry immigration programs.

    Once you move to Canada, it’s important to start building a good credit history—it will have a big impact on your future here. If you plan to borrow money to buy a home or a car, for example, lenders will look at your credit report to decide if they’ll loan you money and how much interest to charge you. Employers, landlords and even cellphone companies may check your credit report. We explain how to build your credit history and how to improve your credit score.

    Some financial products in Canada are similar to what’s available in India, like fixed deposits and GICs. Check out our list.

    We’ve rounded up 15 more MoneySense articles that provide personal finance tips for different life stages—from your first steps in Canada to getting established to planning for retirement.

    [ad_2]

    MoneySense Editors

    Source link

  • A Scottish Pub Known For Premier Fish and Chips Is Moving After 35 Years

    A Scottish Pub Known For Premier Fish and Chips Is Moving After 35 Years

    [ad_1]

    The Duke of Perth, home of one of the city’s best plates of fish and chips and a rare Chicago pub that highlights Scottish cuisine, is moving from its original home where it has stood since 1989. Later this month, they’ll wrap up a 35-year stint at 2913 N. Clark Street. Work has already begun at their new home, 2827 N. Broadway, the former Renaldi’s Pizza. It’s about a five-minute walk southeast.

    Coincidentally, the Renaldi’s space has sentimental value for the Duke’s co-owner John Crombie. When he first emigrated to America from Dundee, Scotland, he met the woman who would become his wife. After a visit to Scotland, he flew back to Chicago where she picked him up from O’Hare International Airport and they drove directly to Renaldi’s: “It’s always been a soft spot for us,” Crombie says.

    That nostalgia didn’t fuel the move. Operating a restaurant is tough, and Crombie and his partners thought they were stuck in a rut at the original space. They weren’t making money and their lease was about to expire. Crombie feared if they renewed their lease, say for three years, they’d find themselves in the same predicament in three years. The choice was either to close or take a chance and move. Meanwhile, Renaldi’s was caught in limbo after 50 years. Though closed since September, cryptic signs left in the window left hope that a reopening was possible. That never happened and Crombie says he made an offer around Thanksgiving in November.

    The new location won’t have a lot of new bells and whistles or a new menu: “Good whisky, good beer — wonderful [all-you-can-eat] fish and chips,” Crombie reiterates. The Duke is a place for conversation and there are no TVs; that philosophy will carry over as they’re trying to recreate the Clark Street space on Broadway. Crombie says started the process of “heavy redecorating.” Out went Renadli’s old pizza oven. The Duke’s history dates back to the ‘80s when Crombie and company owned a store, International Antiques, at 2909 N. Clark Street, across from the Century Shopping Center. They purchased the building and decided to open a pub.

    Renaldi’s is closed as Duke of Perth is moving inside.
    Ashok Selvam/Eater Chicago

    But in the early years, they struggled and as the market for antiques sagged, they decided to sell the building. Crombie says two months after the sale, Chicago magazine published a story praising the Duke’s fish and chips. The positive press ignited business and the Duke was saved. The ownership also is behind another Lakeview icon, Le Creperie, having purchased the French restaurant in 2014. The original idea was to move the Duke into Le Creperie’s space, but after their landlord lowered the rent and hearing the community outcry to save Le Creperie, John and Jack Crombie changed directions.

    The plan is to close around May 25 on Clark Street, to give some of the musicians who frequently performed over the years a chance to say goodbye and to open on Broadway in early June. As Crombie and his partners, including Colin Cameron, get older, operating a bar continues to be a daunting task. Despite the temptations to close, Crombie was matter-of-fact in their reasoning to keep going.

    “Just because the Duke is the Duke and everybody likes it,” he says.

    Crombie is also amused as they purchased Renaldi’s old liquor license. The name of the license? “Shorty O’Toole’s.”

    “It’s a Scottish place buying an Italian place with an Irish name,” Crombie adds.

    [ad_2]

    Ashok Selvam

    Source link

  • The 10 Best Places to Live in Washington in 2024

    The 10 Best Places to Live in Washington in 2024

    [ad_1]

    If you’re planning on moving to Washington, add these cities to your list.

    Home to lush landscapes, diverse cities, and abundant recreation and employment opportunities, Washington has it all. The state is often split into two sections, divided by the Cascade Mountains: Western Washington and Eastern Washington. The Columbia River, the fourth-largest in the country, defines the state’s southern border. 

    Western Washington includes the Olympic Peninsula and Puget Sound, and is where a majority of the state’s population lives. Cities like Seattle, Bellingham, Port Angeles, and Olympia are located here. The Puget Sound, San Juan islands, and Olympic Mountains define the landscape, along with numerous rivers, lakes, and national parks and forests.

    East of the Cascades is Eastern Washington, which is drier and more agriculture-focused. Spokane, Wenatchee, and Walla Walla call this area home, with the Palouse hills, Lake Chelan, and Blue Mountains all popular landmarks. 

    But which cities in the Evergreen State are right for you? In this Redfin article, we’ve uncovered the best places to live in Washington, ranking them on qualities such as affordability, navigability, and number of amenities. You can find more information about our methodology here or at the bottom of the article.

    1. Seattle, WA

    Population:

    749,256

    		 Average Commute Time:

    27.7 minutes

    		 Per-Capita Income:

    $63,610
    Median Sale Price: $889,000 Median Rent Price: 

    $1,990

    		 Unemployment Rate:

    3.0%

    Seattle tops our list as the best place to live in Washington. Home to notoriously rainy weather, large universities, waterfront attractions, and a thriving tech culture, Seattle has it all. The city is built on the hills between the Puget Sound and Lake Washington. It’s also just a ferry ride from picturesque islands. 

    Originally known for its small-city weirdness, Seattle stepped into the national spotlight when it hosted the World’s Fair in 1962 and built the Space Needle as its centerpiece. Then, music became its calling card, with bands like Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana, Sir Mix-a-Lot, and Pink Floyd dominating the rock and music scene. Today, the Emerald City is more associated with technology (Amazon) and coffee (Starbucks), but can still find quirkiness throughout Seattle’s neighborhoods, especially in Fremont and Ballard.

    One of the most appealing parts of living in Seattle is the easy access to outdoor recreation. You’re only 45 minutes away from popular hikes in the Cascade Foothills and within an hour or so of more than a dozen state parks, like Dash Point State Park. Mount Rainier, Olympic, and North Cascades National Parks are also accessible for day trips. 

    Seattle has a marine climate and can see frequent rain from October to April. The city is at its best during the late spring and early fall, when temperatures are mild and rain is less likely. Summers can be gorgeous, but an increase in wildfires, smoke, and heat waves have made them harder to handle. 

    Seattle homes for sale | Seattle houses for rent | Seattle apartments for rent

    Downtown Spokane

    2. Spokane, WA

    Population:

    230,160

    		 Average Commute Time:

    20.8 minutes

    		 Per-Capita Income:

    $30,791
    Median Sale Price: $370,000 Median Rent Price: 

    $1,308

    		 Unemployment Rate:

    3.7%

    Spokane, the second-largest city in Washington, is second on our list of the best places to live in Washington. Sitting at 1,843 feet above sea level, Spokane is the hub of Eastern Washington and is known for its natural beauty, basketball, and history. 

    A fun fact about Spokane is that basketball is part of its DNA. The city is officially known as Hooptown USA due to the city hosting the annual Spokane Hoopfest, the largest 3on3 basketball tournament in the world. Gonzaga University also calls the city home, and usually makes deep runs into the March Madness basketball tournament. Lilac City is Spokane’s other common nickname, paying homage to the annual Spokane Lilac Festival.

    Spokane has a markedly different climate than Seattle. The city is located on the Columbia Plateau between the drier Columbia Basin to the west and forested Selkirk Mountains to the east. As such, it’s fairly dry, seeing 18.5 inches of annual precipitation, but experiences the full range of the four seasons. Winters are usually cold and snowy, while summers are sunny and can be hot. The best time to be in Spokane is from June to September, although this is shifting later as summers get warmer.

    Lastly, like many cities in Eastern Washington, wine and agriculture are a huge part of life. Apples are the state’s fourth-largest export, and Washington has become the second-largest wine producer in the country. Famous wineries in Spokane include Barrister Winery and Arbor Crest Wine Cellars.

    Spokane homes for sale | Spokane houses for rent | Spokane apartments for rent

    vancouver-wa

    3. Vancouver, WA

    Population:

    194,512

    		 Average Commute Time:

    25.3 minutes

    		 Per-Capita Income:

    $33,713
    Median Sale Price:

    $509,900

    		 Median Rent Price: 

    $1,884

    		 Unemployment Rate:

    3.2%

    Vancouver comes in as the third-best place to live in Washington. Commonly called The Couve, this suburban city is located along the Columbia River on the border between Washington and Oregon, just north of Portland.

    Vancouver has done a lot of work to revitalize its riverfront. What used to be a stretch of old industrial buildings has become a tourist attraction full of hotels, restaurants, and a large pier. Portlanders often make fun of their northern neighbor, but Vancouver’s waterfront rivals or even outclasses Portland’s McCall Waterfront.

    Vancouver’s weather is very similar to Portland and Seattle, seeing fairly frequent rain from October to April. However, temperatures tend to be a bit warmer than more northern cities. Late spring and early fall are the best times to be in Vancouver.

    Historically a small industrial town, Vancouver has grown rapidly as Portland has become more expensive. This is because many seeking Portland’s lifestyle without the high costs, move to Vancouver. As a result, it’s common for residents to commute over an hour to and from work in Portland daily, and Vancouver’s housing prices now rival or exceed those in Portland.

    Vancouver homes for sale | Vancouver houses for rent | Vancouver apartments for rent

    bellingham waterfront in washington_getty

    4. Bellingham, WA

    Population:

    93,896

    		 Average Commute Time:

    19 minutes

    		 Per-Capita Income:

    $32,419
    Median Sale Price: 

    $639,750

    		 Median Rent Price: 

    $2,127

    		 Unemployment Rate:

    2.9%

    Next on our list, Bellingham is the fourth-best place to live in Washington. Just 20 miles south of the Canadian border in the far northwest of Washington, Bellingham is a charming coastal town with all the amenities you expect of a big city. And since it’s just 90 miles north Seattle, you can easily head down for a day trip by car or train with friends. 

    Popular activities in Bellingham include visiting the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, enjoying local art, or exploring Fairhaven Village in the center of town. Western Washington University also calls Bellingham home, offering a college-town feel (and lots of activities) perfect for full- and part-time students. 

    One of the biggest perks of Bellingham is its outdoor recreation. The city is surrounded by lush, evergreen mountains and fertile waters, offering hiking, kayaking, climbing, and endless other adventures. For mountain enthusiasts, Mount Baker and the North Cascades National Park are within two hours from downtown. Watersport lovers can head down to the Puget Sound or take a ferry to one of the many San Juan Islands. Deception Pass and Larrabee State Parks are some of the most popular spots. 

    Bellingham’s climate is similar to other cities in the PNW but tends to be among the coldest. For example, Bellingham is around 2.5°F cooler annually than Seattle but receives about five fewer inches of rain. This makes summers beautiful, which is ideal given the city’s abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. 

    Bellingham homes for sale | Bellingham houses for rent | Bellingham apartments for rent

    Aerial view of Tacoma and Mount Rainier

    5. Tacoma, WA

    Population:

    221,776

    		 Average Commute Time:

    30.5 minutes

    		 Per-Capita Income:

    $34,759
    Median Sale Price: 

    $473,500

    		 Median Rent Price: 

    $1,744

    		 Unemployment Rate:

    3.2%

    Tacoma comes in at number five on our list of the best places to live in Washington. Known for its museums, parks, universities, and industry, Tacoma has something for everyone. 

    Located on the shores of Puget Sound with views of Mount Rainier, Tacoma is a beautiful place to live, with well-developed waterfronts and numerous parks. Point Defiance Park, for example, is one of the country’s largest urban parks and features hiking, beaches, stunning gardens, and an acclaimed zoo and aquarium.

    The city is also home to an array of landmarks and attractions. You can explore displays at the Museum of Glass, or dive into regional history at the Washington State History Museum. The Tacoma Dome also brings big-name concerts right to your doorstep, while the Ruston Way waterfront offers a perfect spot for walking or dining with views of Puget Sound. 

    Tacoma has long been an attractive alternative to Seattle, particularly due to its more affordable housing and lower living costs. This economic advantage draws many to live in Tacoma while commuting to work in Seattle, offering a budget-friendly option without sacrificing access to the metropolitan area. That said, it’s important to know that traffic in and out of Seattle along Interstate 5 (I-5) can be very difficult, taking upwards of two hours both ways. 

    Tacoma homes for sale | Tacoma houses for rent | Tacoma apartments for rent

    edmonds-wa

    6. Edmonds, WA

    Population:

    42,593

    		 Average Commute Time:

    31.6 minutes

    		 Per-Capita Income:

    $56,443
    Median Sale Price: 

    $924,975

    		 Median Rent Price: 

    $1,882

    		 Unemployment Rate:

    2.4%

    If Seattle feels too big, Edmonds may be a great option. Just 30 minutes (without traffic) north of  downtown Seattle, Edmonds provides a nice mix of urban amenities and suburban, waterfront charm just a stone’s throw from the Olympic Peninsula and San Juan Islands. Its coastal and mountain views are some of its best features.

    Edmonds is known for its quiet coastal living and quaint, charming, walkable downtown. Art installations abound, and amphitheaters, seasonal decorations, and green spaces are everywhere you look. Many residents of Edmonds choose to live there for its charm, space, and greenery while working in Seattle. Commuting can take an hour or more each way due to traffic, but many find the trade-off worthwhile for the benefits of living in Edmonds.  

    Some of the most beloved parts of Edmonds are the Edmonds Marine Walkway, Edmonds Center For the Arts, and Yost Park. Touring the nearby wineries in Woodinville are also a popular weekend option for locals and tourists.

    Edmonds homes for sale | Edmonds houses for rent | Edmonds apartments for rent 

    olympia-wa

    7. Olympia, WA

    Population:

    55,669

    		 Average Commute Time:

    21.1 minutes

    		 Per-Capita Income:

    $35,914
    Median Sale Price: 

    $498,000

    		 Median Rent Price: 

    $1,740

    		 Unemployment Rate:

    4.3%

    Olympia is the seventh city on our list. Over 60 miles south of Seattle and just north of Tumwater, Olympia is somewhat removed from a major metropolitan area and thus is fairly quiet and secluded. It’s also relatively small, providing a small-town feel but with big-city amenities. Quaint shops like the Olympia Food Co-op and Olympia Coffee are beloved local staples, while Costco, Target, and other national brands provide an array of goods. 

    As the state capital, Olympia grows and shrinks with the legislative season; on even-numbered years, sessions are 60 days, while on odd-numbered years, they are 105 days. Washington legislators only work part-time, so when they aren’t in session, they often return to their home districts and full-time jobs.

    Like many cities in the region, natural beauty is everywhere you look – and people like to explore it. Tumwater Historical Park, Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls, and Watershed Park are popular options for play and relaxation. The city is home to a university as well, with the unique Evergreen State College located in the northwest of town.

    Olympia homes for sale | Olympia houses for rent | Olympia apartments for rent

    kirkland-wa

    8. Kirkland, WA

    Population:

    92,151

    		 Average Commute Time:

    27.4 minutes

    		 Per-Capita Income:

    $64,268
    Median Sale Price: 

    $1,331,000

    		 Median Rent Price: 

    $2,733

    		 Unemployment Rate:

    3.2%

    Across the 520 bridge from Seattle, Kirkland is the eighth city on our list of the best places to live in Washington. Kirkland is a quiet, upscale Seattle suburb with waterfront views of Lake Washington and plenty of amenities for people of all ages. Juanita Bay Park and Heritage Park are popular parks for waterfront relaxation and recreation, while the Kirkland Sailing Club & School and Kirkland Performance Center are great for weekend fun.

    There’s a lot to do in Kirkland’s downtown area, too. Central Way is the main throughway in the heart of the city, with boutique shops, upscale restaurants, and luxury apartments along the 10 blocks that make up downtown. Hearth, Cactus, and Feast are popular options. Central Way ends at Marina Park, which is where the city’s Farmers Market is held on Wednesdays from June through September.

    Being just 11 miles east of Seattle, Kirkland’s climate is nearly identical to other cities in the area.

    Kirkland homes for sale | Kirkland houses for rent | Kirkland apartments for rent

    renton-wa

    9. Renton, WA

    Population:

    104,047

    		 Average Commute Time:

    31.8 minutes

    		 Per-Capita Income:

    $40,594
    Median Sale Price: 

    $700,000

    		 Median Rent Price: 

    $2,234

    		 Unemployment Rate:

    2.5%

    Just southeast of Seattle, Renton is known for its relatively affordable living and suburban feel. Renton borders Lake Washington to the north and extends into the Cascade Foothills to the east, providing a variety of scenery and beauty. 

    The Cedar River Park Trail, Virginia Mason Athletic Center, and Boeing’s Renton campus are highlights of the area. Boeing is an iconic PNW company that also has a campus in Everett, which is connected to Renton via the busy I-405.

    For decades, Renton has served as an affordable option to homebuyers and renters priced out of Seattle, leading many to live in Renton and commute to Seattle. As a result, however, Renton has grown very quickly, especially  in the past 10 years, causing commute times, rent prices, and house prices to rise. With these changes, Renton has started shifting from an affordable commuter town to a fairly expensive city in its own right. House prices are still far below Seattle’s, though, and upcoming transportation improvements will make getting around easier than ever.

    Renton homes for sale | Renton houses for rent | Renton apartments for rent

    redmond-wa

    10. Redmond, WA

    Population:

    76,732

    		 Average Commute Time:

    25 minutes

    		 Per-Capita Income:

    $66,031
    Median Sale Price: 

    $1,230,000

    		 Median Rent Price: 

    $2,456

    		 Unemployment Rate:

    2.8%

    Redmond rounds out our list as the tenth best place to live in Washington. Just east of Kirkland on the northern shores of Lake Sammamish, Redmond is home to the headquarters of global technology companies such as Microsoft and Nintendo. The city and surrounding areas are primarily known for their technology, upscale suburban living, and high quality schools, with median house prices well above $1 million. 

    Less than 20 miles east of downtown Seattle, Redmond is a quiet suburb full of urban amenities. Marymoor Park plays host to large outdoor concerts during the warmer months, while also providing a huge off-leash dog park and lakeside activities. Further out, U-Pick farms, hikes, and campgrounds are all within an hour drive. Remlinger Farms, Chinook Bend, and Tolt-MacDonald Park are popular options.

    Redmond is also going to become much easier to access in the near future. The massive Link Light Rail extension will cross I-90 in 2025, connecting Downtown Redmond and the existing 2-Line to Seattle. The 520 trail is an option for Seattle cycling commuters.

    Redmond homes for sale | Redmond houses for rent | Redmond apartments for rent

    Methodology

    Redfin’s Best Places to Live rankings are meant to help home searchers make an informed decision when choosing where to live. To attempt to measure the overall quality of a metro area, each ranking takes into account several key factors, including access to healthcare, open outdoor space, navigability, housing trends, employment statistics, income, and travel time to work. Only metros with a population of 20,000 or greater were considered for our Washington list. More information about our methodology can be found here.

    Data valid April 2024. This article is for informational and educational purposes only.

    [ad_2]

    Jamie Forbes

    Source link

  • 10 Essentials for Your New Home, from Top Redfin Agents

    10 Essentials for Your New Home, from Top Redfin Agents

    [ad_1]

    Congratulations on closing on your new home. Whether you just bought a condo in Miami, FL or a single family home in Seattle, it’s natural for it to take some time for your new space to truly feel like home. To help ease the transition, we reached out to some of our seasoned Redfin agents for their top recommendations on must-have items for new homeowners. From practical tools to personal touches, here are the essentials they swear by. 

    1. Quality tool set

    A well-equipped tool set is necessary for handling any minor repairs or DIY projects that may arise. From assembling furniture to fixing a leaky faucet, having the right tools on hand can save you time and money in the long run.

    2. First aid kit

    Safety first. A fully stocked first aid kit is a crucial item for any household. Be prepared for minor accidents or injuries with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and other essentials.

    3. Cleaning supplies

    Keep your new home clean with essential cleaning tools such as a vacuum, broom, dustpan, mop, and a surface cleaner. Sometimes sellers won’t clean the home before you move in, so having supplies on hand will save you time. Plus, a tidy living space not only looks great but also contributes to a healthier home.

    4. Clothing hangers and storage bins

    Stay organized in your new home by stocking up on clothing hangers and storage bins. These tools are great for maintaining order throughout your home, whether you are organizing seasonal clothing or keeping miscellaneous items neatly tucked away.

    Closet with clothes hangers, an home essential for new homeowners.

    5. Window treatments

    Upon moving in, installing window treatments like curtains or blinds is key for privacy, particularly in closely spaced neighborhoods. These also help control natural light, making your new space more comfortable. It’s also wise to consider window orientation and local climate to optimize light exposure and indoor temperature for immediate comfort in your new home.

    6. Flashlight and batteries

    Don’t get caught in the dark during a power outage or while navigating a dimly lit basement. A reliable flashlight, along with spare batteries, ensures that you’ll always have light when you need it most.

    7. Fire safety gear

    Be prepared for emergencies with essential fire safety equipment such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and carbon monoxide alarms. The safety of your loved ones is paramount, so ensure these devices are installed and maintained properly.

    8. Kitchen staples

    Cookware such as pots, pans, plates, and cutlery are must-haves for your new kitchen. Be sure to stock up on basics like spices, baking supplies, condiments, and dry goods as well. Starting fresh in your new kitchen allows you to create delicious meals and make cherished memories. 

    Updated kitchen

    9. Houseplants

    Bring a touch of nature indoors with houseplants that help purify the air and add beauty to your home. Choose plants that suit your lifestyle and lighting conditions, and enjoy the benefits of a greener living space.

    10. Home comfort and decor

    When settling into a new home, creating a space that feels comfortable and reflects your personal style is essential. This process often involves selecting furniture and decor that serve functional purposes and make the space truly yours. Comfortable seating, cozy bedding, and personal touches like photographs or art can transform a house into a home. Redfin agents advise that you start with the rooms you’ll use most. This approach ensures your living spaces are not only stylish, but also inviting and functional from day one.

    Entryway for a home

    As you embark on this exciting chapter in your life, remember that it’s the little things that can make a big difference in turning your house into a home. By investing in these items, you’ll be well-equipped to create a space that you and your loved ones will enjoy for years to come. Happy homemaking.

    [ad_2]

    Julia Weaver

    Source link