Millennials, i.e. individuals between the ages of 18 and 29 years old, often grab life by the horns. However, when it comes to getting ready for a move, Millennials often encounter problems along the way.
Fortunately, we're here to help Millennials who recently bought or sold a house discover what it takes to complete a successful move.
Let's take a look at three moving tips that every Millennial needs to know.
1. Get a Head Start on Your Move
Let's face it – the stress associated with moving can be overwhelming. And in some cases, it may lead Millennials to wait until the last minute to start packing.
Procrastination is never a good idea, particularly when it comes to moving. If you get an early start on your move, you can enjoy a seamless transition from one address to the next.
2. Pick Up Plenty of Packing Supplies
If you own a wide range of books, clothing and DVDs, there is no need to worry. Pick up plenty of packing supplies prior to moving day, and you can safeguard your belongings during your move.
Moving boxes are essential and come in a variety of sizes. You can always purchase moving boxes; or, you may be able to pick up boxes for free from a local grocery store or retailer.
In addition, be sure to pick up packing tape, bubble wrap and other packing supplies. With the right packing supplies at your disposal, you'll have no trouble getting your belongings ready for moving day.
3. Hire a Professional Moving Company
When it comes to moving, there is no need to work alone. Luckily, many moving companies are available to help Millennials complete a successful relocation.
Reach out to a variety of moving companies in your area – you'll be glad you did. If you discuss your moving budget and requirements with several moving companies, you should be able to find a professional mover that meets or exceeds your expectations.
Of course, if you need assistance as you search for a moving company, you may want to discuss your options with a real estate agent as well.
A real estate agent can put a Millennial in touch with the best moving companies in any city or town. By doing so, this housing market professional will make it simple for you to get the help that you need for your move.
Lastly, any time you need to buy or sell a house, it pays to hire a real estate agent. This housing market professional will learn about your homebuying or home selling goals and ensure you can achieve your desired results. Plus, if you ever have homebuying or home selling questions, a real estate agent is happy to respond to them.
Ready to relocate to a new address? Use the aforementioned moving tips, and any Millennial can pack up his or her belongings and enjoy a quick, easy move.
Photo by Steve Buissinne via
Most are familiar with the key components of a mortgage: how much you're borrowing, what your interest rate is, how many years you'll be paying your mortgage back. There are many, however, who do not understand some of the finer details, including what prepayment penalties are and how they may affect you when you're buying or selling a home.
In the simplest terms, a prepayment penalty may apply if you pay off your mortgage early. Prepaying can mean either making additional payments that bring down your balance quicker, refinancing your mortgage, or selling the home and therefore paying off the balance of the loan. The reason banks apply these penalties is to recoup some of their lost revenue when years of interest are not collected due to an early payoff.
Not all mortgages come with penalties and those that do often specify when and how the penalties will apply. For example, many borrowers will not be penalized if the prepayment results from selling the home, but will apply from refinancing or from making additional payments. Others have a limit to how much can be paid early via additional payments during any given year. It's also common for prepayment penalties to only apply during the first several years.
For first-time mortgage applicants, it pays to take the time to find your lender before you choose a home. That way, you'll have plenty of time to read all the documentation, ask questions, and consult an attorney to ensure you're getting terms you can agree to in good faith. Keep in mind, however, that mortgage contracts are not final until you've selected a home and have documents drawn up specifically for that purchase. You may want to have an attorney present during the closing to make sure all the final paperwork matches your expectations.
For sellers, it's best to understand whether prepayment penalties will apply long before contemplating the sale of your home. However, if you missed the opportunity to do your due diligence when signing the mortgage documents, it's not too late. Start by talking with your lender to understand which, if any, penalties you may be subject to. If the penalties are steep enough, now may not be the best time to sell or you may want to keep these expenses in mind when pricing your home. Others may be able to port their mortgage to a new home, or transfer it to a new property to avoid penalties.
No matter which side of the deal you are on, a qualified real estate agent can help you navigate the process to make sure you're getting the most from the arrangement while also working around tricky situations. To learn more or to get started, feel free to send in your inquiries, so we can get started on your homebuying or home selling journey today.
