7361 Teasdale Comparative Market Report

7361 Teasdale Comparative Market Report

COMPARATIVE MARKET ANALYSIS

7361 Teasdale Ave, Saint Louis, Missouri 63130

PREPARED FOR Evan and Karen Kharasch DECEMBER 21, 2017

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

CONTACT ME

INTRO

Sabrina Robb Robb Partners

E-mail

[email protected]

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Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

MAP OF ALL LISTINGS

INTRO

MLS # Subject

Status

Address

Price

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

7361 Teasdale Ave, Saint Louis, Missouri 63130

16072300 16083794 17013065 17021217 17023418 17025437 17053996 17068295 17082133

S S S S S S S S A

7255 Creveling

$600,000 $450,000 $800,000 $525,000 $399,999 $465,000 $580,000 $565,000 $627,000

515 Purdue Avenue 7250 Creveling Drive 560 Stratford Avenue 7387 Stratford Avenue 7399 Stratford Avenue 7316 Kingsbury Boulevard

556 Purdue Avenue 523 Midvale Avenue

Status: S = Sold, A = Active

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

SUMMARY OF COMPARABLE PROPERTIES

INTRO

Sold Listings

Address

Beds Baths YrBlt

SqFt

Lot Size

Price

Sold Date

7255 Creveling

4 3 4 5 3 4 4 4

4.00 1957 3,109 3.00 1929 1,989 3.00 1988 3,476 4.00 1936 2,414 3.00 1927 2,352 3.00 1935 2,138 4.00 1927 2,598 3.00 1927 2,664

15,856 $600,000 6,621 $450,000 12,458 $800,000 7,100 $525,000 6,621 $399,999 7,231 $465,000 10,062 $580,000 8,146 $565,000 9,261 $548,125

3/3/17

515 Purdue Avenue 7250 Creveling Drive 560 Stratford Avenue 7387 Stratford Avenue 7399 Stratford Avenue 7316 Kingsbury Boulevard

3/24/17

6/5/17

5/18/17 9/11/17 5/24/17

9/5/17

556 Purdue Avenue

10/27/17

Averages

2,592

Active Listings Address 523 Midvale Avenue

Beds Baths YrBlt

SqFt

Lot Size

Price

Sold Date

3

3.00 1927 2,466

7,144 7,144

$627,000 $627,000

Averages

2,466

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

PROPERTY DETAILS

MLS #16072300

7255 Creveling, St Louis

$600,000

S

Listing information MLS#: 16072300

Beds: 4

Sq Ft: 3,109

Sold Date: 3/3/17

Status: Sold

Baths: 4.00

Year Built: 1957

DOM: 283

Features Cooling : Central-Electric Heating : Forced Air Sewer : Public Water : Public Architecture : Traditional Construction : Brick/Stone Msn Pred Virtual Tour : Link Lotsize : 15856 Acres : 0.3640 Remarks PRICED TO SELL: Plus $10,000 decorating credit! Sought after University Hills gem - This 4 bedroom/4 bath home is perfect for family living and entertaining. Large entry foyer leads to oversized living room, dining room & family rooms. Updated eat-in kitchen has plenty of space for the cook in the family, abundant cabinets and storage. Center island, granite countertops, & all stainless appliances included. You'll live in the sun room & oversized back deck which overlooks a large level lot. Bedrooms are all located upstairs. Master Suite with updated bath plus 3 good sized bedrooms & a second full bath completes the second level. Your basement is home to the laundry room (washer & dryer included), rec room, bath room and built-in storage and cubbies. 2 car tuck under garage, stamped concrete driveway and zoned HVAC are just some of the upgrades found in this exceptional home. ...

Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Source: MARIS

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

PROPERTY DETAILS

MLS #16083794

515 Purdue Avenue, St Louis

$450,000

S

Listing information MLS#: 16083794

Beds: 3

Sq Ft: 1,989

Sold Date: 3/24/17

Status: Sold

Baths: 3.00

Year Built: 1929

DOM: 32

Features Cooling : Ceiling Fan, Central-Electric Heating : Forced Air Sewer : Public Water : Public Architecture : English, Tudor Construction : Stucco Lotsize : 6621 Acres : 0.1520 Remarks Welcome to this lovely Tudor-style University Hills home boasting updates and charm throughout. Wood floors greet you at the entry and open to a living room with fireplace. The living room adjoins to a bright and airy family space. Follow the French doors out to the back patio and private back yard. The dining flows effortlessly into the gourmet kitchen with perks everyone wants; stainless appliances, custom cabinetry some with glass fronts, pantry, and a tile backsplash just to name a few. Three well-appointed bedrooms are found on the upper level including a master bedroom suite with plentiful closet space and private bath featuring double sinks and shower. Another updated bath with jetted-tub completes the upper living space. More living space can be found in the lower level with two rec areas allowing for flexible living. Additional features include a two car garage, archw...

Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Source: MARIS

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

PROPERTY DETAILS

MLS #17013065

7250 Creveling Drive, University City

$800,000

S

Listing information MLS#: 17013065

Beds: 4

Sq Ft: 3,476

Sold Date: 6/5/17

Status: Sold

Baths: 3.00

Year Built: 1988

DOM: 26

Features Amenities : Private Indoor Pool Cooling : Central-Electric, Zoned Heating : Forced Air Sewer : Public Water : Public Architecture : Other Construction : Stucco Lotsize : 12458 Acres : 0.2860 Remarks Stunning architectural home in highly desirable University Hills has iron arched entry gate The home was custom designed with sky lights,an abundance of windows, 2 story entry,and an open floor plan. The kitchen, recently updated, has new stainless appliances, crisp white cabinetry and sleek granite countertops. The massive great room steps down from the dining room & entry with French doors at opposite ends. Stained glass details, art niches,striking round windowq & white washed walls appear throughout this understated yet elegant home. An additional bedroom/office w/ full bath & laundry are on the main floor. The upper level has a spectacular open family room space overlooking the foyer & backyard. A generous master suite w/sitting area & fireplace, walk thru closet, & master bath w/fast fill tub, plus 2 additional bedrooms complete the upstairs. A glass enclosed heated/jetted lap p...

Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Source: MARIS

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

PROPERTY DETAILS

MLS #17021217

560 Stratford Avenue, St Louis

$525,000

S

Listing information MLS#: 17021217

Beds: 5

Sq Ft: 2,414

Sold Date: 5/18/17

Status: Sold

Baths: 4.00

Year Built: 1936

DOM: 2

Features Cooling : Ceiling Fan, Central-Electric Heating : Forced Air Sewer : Public Water : Public Architecture : Colonial, Historic Construction : Brick/Stone Msn Pred Lotsize : 7100 Acres : 0.1630 Remarks Welcome home to this University Hills showcase with nearly 2900 sq ft finished. Enter into the center foyer with living spaces flanking it with archways, refinished hardwoods, crown molding, WB fireplace and tons of light. Adjoining the living room is a sitting room basked in natural sunlight. The kitchen has been updated with painted glass front cabinets, miles of granite counters, newer SS appliances, refinished hardwoods and recessed lights. The adjacent breakfast room includes a convenient butler's pantry and two pantries. Main floor bedroom with more hardwoods and a full bath complete this floor. Second floor with 3 guest bedrooms with a guest bathroom and a huge master suite with WICs. The finished lower level contains a family room with gas fireplace, crown molding and nice built-ins. Laundry room, half bath, storage area and a 2 car garage complete the basement. The backyard i...

Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Source: MARIS

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

PROPERTY DETAILS

MLS #17023418

7387 Stratford Avenue, University City

$399,999

S

Listing information MLS#: 17023418

Beds: 3

Sq Ft: 2,352

Sold Date: 9/11/17

Status: Sold

Baths: 3.00

Year Built: 1927

DOM: 124

Features Cooling : Ceiling Fan, Central-Electric Heating : Radiator(s) Sewer : Public Water : Public Architecture : Traditional Construction : Brick/Stone Msn Pred Lotsize : 6621 Acres : 0.1520 Remarks GREAT NEW PRICE, GREAT NEW LOOK! Open Sunday, 6/18 1-3pm! Handsome home in coveted University Hills neighborhood. Upon entering, you are welcomed by charming wood floors, special millwork, a gorgeous stained glass window, gracious glass door knobs, and much more...An expansive living room offers a wood burning fireplace, and pretty french doors, as seen from the street. Also on the main floor you will find a dining room, family room, and kitchen. The dining room and family room are remarkably interchangeable, which allows you to truly make this home your own. The kitchen has granite countertops, a large pantry and is off of the rear entry-which has a small mud room. Upstairs you will find the master, which has an entry way with closets and a built in vanity; there are also closets inside the bedroom, and a full bath. The other 2 bedrooms have great space and share a hall bath. Final...

Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Source: MARIS

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

PROPERTY DETAILS

MLS #17025437

7399 Stratford Avenue, St Louis

$465,000

S

Listing information MLS#: 17025437

Beds: 4

Sq Ft: 2,138

Sold Date: 5/24/17

Status: Sold

Baths: 3.00

Year Built: 1935

DOM: 15

Features Amenities : Hot Tub, Workshop/Hobby Area Cooling : Central-Electric Heating : Forced Air Sewer : Public Water : Public Architecture : Traditional Construction : Brk/Stn Veneer Frnt Lotsize : 7231 Acres : 0.1660 Remarks A Price on Priceless Unmatched Quality. Curb Appeal matched only by the Inside Appeal. Enter to a Beautiful Wood Foyer, Custom Base Boards, Solid Wood Doors, One of a Kind Second Story Staircase, Flanked to the Left by the Cozy Living Room with Wood Floors, Gas Fireplace, Shutter Cover Windows, Crown Molding and Ceiling Fan for Comfort. To the Right the is Dining Room with Magnificent Wood Floors, Unique Chandelier, Corner Built in China Closet and Shuttered Windows. Down the Entry Way Hall Approaches the Updated Kitchen with Ceramic Counters, Custom Cabinets, Dishwasher, Garbage Disposal, and Double Sink Looking out into the Picture Perfect Back Yard. Off the Kitchen is the Wood Floored Breakfast Room with a Full Wall of Glass Door Custom Built China Cabinets. Upstairs is the Huge Master Bedroom with Custom Wood Work Two Additional Bedrooms and an Updated Full Bath. The Lower Level ...

Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Source: MARIS

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

PROPERTY DETAILS

MLS #17053996

7316 Kingsbury Boulevard, University City

$580,000

S

Listing information MLS#: 17053996

Beds: 4

Sq Ft: 2,598

Sold Date: 9/5/17

Status: Sold

Baths: 4.00

Year Built: 1927

DOM: 6

Features Cooling : Ceiling Fan, Central-Electric Heating : Hot Water/Steam, Radiator(s) Sewer : Public Water : Public Architecture : Traditional, Tudor Construction : Brick Veneer Predom, Stucco Lotsize : 10062 Acres : 0.2310 Remarks Welcome to 7316 Kingsbury Blvd in sought after University Hills. This 3+ Bedroom 3.5 bath meticulously maintained home has been updated for today's lifestyle while maintaining the 1920's Architectural Integrity. A vestibule opens to an entry foyer and living room. Natural light streams through the front triple window and art glass windows on either side of the gas fireplace. Adjacent to the living room is a dining room which leads to the updated kitchen and 20 X 16 1st floor family room. There is also a 1/2 bath and sun room on the main level. Upstairs are two spacious bedrooms an updated hall bath & luxurious master suite with sitting room as well as a recently completed master bath with double vanity, soaking tub and shower. The walk out finished lower level offers additional entertaining space, a sleeping area, full bath and lots of storage. Just off the family room is multi level ...

Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Source: MARIS

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

PROPERTY DETAILS

MLS #17068295

556 Purdue Avenue, University City

$565,000

S

Listing information MLS#: 17068295

Beds: 4

Sq Ft: 2,664

Sold Date: 10/27/17

Status: Sold

Baths: 3.00

Year Built: 1927

DOM: 6

Features Cooling : Ceiling Fan, Central-Electric Heating : Baseboard, Hot Water/Steam, Radiator(s) Sewer : Public Water : Public Architecture : Historic, Traditional Construction : Brick/Stone Msn Pred Lotsize : 8146 Acres : 0.1870 Remarks Handsome brick home w/4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths in sought-after University Hills. Built in 1927, marvel at the integrity of historic & modern-day qualities. Striking craftsmanship is showcased thru-out. Nestled in an idyllic setting w/outstanding curb appeal & surrounded by lush landscaping. A classic entry captures your attention. Architectural details such as leaded-glass windows, vintage fixtures, unique arches, hardwood floors and 9ft ceilings are distinctive. The timeless living room w/terrazzo floors, built-ins & wood burning fireplace leads directly to the front terrace. A graceful dining room connects to the kitchen. Cooking is a delight in the renovated kitchen w/shaker-style maple cabinets, granite counters, Jenn-Air appliances, center island & adjoining breakfast room. A relaxing sun room reminiscent of yesteryear leads to a quaint brick patio & yard that is a gardeners dream c...

Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Source: MARIS

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

PROPERTY DETAILS

MLS #17082133

523 Midvale Avenue, St Louis

$627,000

A

Listing information MLS#: 17082133

Beds: 3

Sq Ft: 2,466

List Date: 10/24/17

Status: Active

Baths: 3.00

Year Built: 1927

DOM: 58

Features Amenities : Workshop/Hobby Area Cooling : Central-Electric Heating : Forced Air, Zoned Sewer : Public Water : Public Architecture : Historic, Tudor Construction : Brick/Stone Msn Pred Virtual Tour : Link Lotsize : 7144 Acres : 0.1640 Remarks Dont miss out on this incredible home at a fantastic new price! Beautiful updated home in desirable University Hills. All the charm & character found in a well-built older home w/ all the modern updates you look for in a newer home. All brick w/ newer slate roof & newer oversized 2 car garage. Kitchen updated w/ high-end stainless appliances, soft gray Shaker cabinets, quartz countertops, & marble backsplash. This home has a real master suite: room for your king bed & dressers, a bathroom w/ 2 sinks, separate shower & large jetted tub... & 3 closets, including a huge walk-in w/ custom organizers. Brand new powder room sparkles w/ marble floor, Kohler fixtures, & chandelier. Home has plaster walls & unique plaster moldings all newly painted, coffered & beamed ceilings, & wood floors throughout. Living room w/ formal dining space has a gorgeous marble fireplace. Over $60,000 has gone i...

Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Source: MARIS

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

COMPARABLE PROPERTY STATISTICS

ANALYSIS

Sold Listings Number of listings 8 Lowest price $399,999 Average price $548,125 Highest price $800,000 Avg price per sqft $211 Avg DOM 61 1 Lowest price $627,000 Average price $627,000 Highest price $627,000 Avg price per sqft $254 Avg DOM 58 Active Listings Number of listings

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

ONLINE VALUATION ANALYSIS

ANALYSIS

Sold Listings Address 7255 Creveling

Sold Date 3/3/17 3/24/17 6/5/17 5/18/17 9/11/17 5/24/17 9/5/17 10/27/17

Sold Price

Zestimate

Difference

$600,000 $450,000 $800,000 $525,000 $399,999 $465,000 $580,000 $565,000

$616,619 $460,694 $758,673 $520,678 $484,939 $474,913 $496,647 $545,858

2.8% 2.4% -5.2% -0.8% 21.2%

515 Purdue Avenue 7250 Creveling Drive 560 Stratford Avenue 7387 Stratford Avenue 7399 Stratford Avenue 7316 Kingsbury Boulevard

2.1%

-14.4%

556 Purdue Avenue

-3.4%

Active Listings Address 523 Midvale Avenue

Price

Zestimate

Difference

$627,000

$532,136

-15.1%

Source: MARIS

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

SOLD PROPERTY ANALYSIS

ANALYSIS

Address

List Price

Sold Price

% of List Price

DOM $ per Sqft

7255 Creveling

$624,000 $469,900 $869,000 $525,000 $399,999 $489,900 $599,000 $575,000 $568,975

$600,000 $450,000 $800,000 $525,000 $399,999 $465,000 $580,000 $565,000 $548,125

96.2% 283 95.8% 32 92.1% 26 100.0% 2 100.0% 124 94.9% 15 96.8% 6 98.3% 6 96.3% 61

$193 $226 $230 $217 $170 $217 $223 $212 $211

515 Purdue Avenue 7250 Creveling Drive 560 Stratford Avenue 7387 Stratford Avenue 7399 Stratford Avenue 7316 Kingsbury Boulevard

556 Purdue Avenue

Sold Averages

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

SUGGESTED LIST PRICE

ANALYSIS

Analysis of the comparable properties suggests a list price range of:

$598,000 - $615,000

Here are some other pricing factors to consider: Low Median Average High

Proj. value $/sqft

All listings

$399,999 $627,000 $399,999

$565,000 $627,000 $525,000

$556,889 $627,000 $548,125

$800,000 $627,000 $800,000

$577,805 $680,140 $565,013

Active listings Sold listings

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

SELLERS NET SHEET

ANALYSIS

Suggested list price

$598,000

Item

Cost

Fee for Service - 5.4% (2.5% to buyer's agent)

$31,590

Title Company Expenses Taxes - Jan. 1 - June 30 Total selling expenses

$300

$4,078 $35,968

Net to seller

$562,032

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

INTELLIGENT PRICING AND TIMING

INFO

Pricing a home for sale is as much art as science, but there are a few truisms that never change. • Fair market value attracts buyers, overpricing never does. • The first two weeks of marketing are crucial. • The market never lies, but it can change its mind.

Fair market value is what a willing buyer and a willing seller agree by contract is a fair price for the home. Values can be impacted by a wide range of reasons but the two largest are location and condition. Generally, fair market value can be determined by comparables - other similar homes that have sold or are currently for sale in the same area. Sellers often view their homes as special which tempts them to put a higher price on the home, believing they can always come down later, but that’s a serious mistake. Overpricing prevents the very buyers who are eligible to buy the home from ever seeing it. Most buyers shop by price range, and look for the best value in that range.

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

INTELLIGENT PRICING AND TIMING

INFO

Your best chance of selling your home is in the first two weeks of marketing. Your home is fresh and exciting to buyers and to their agents. With a sign in the yard, a description in the local Multiple Listing Service, distribution across the Internet, open houses, broker’s caravan, ads, and email blasts to your listing agent’s buyers, your home will get the greatest flurry of attention and interest in the first two weeks. If you don’t get many showings or offers, you’ve probably overpriced your home, and it’s not comparing well to the competition. Since you can’t change the location, you’ll have to improve the home’s condition or lower the price. Consult with your agent and ask for feedback. Perhaps you can do a little more to spruce up your home’s curb appeal, or perhaps stage the interior to better advantage. The market can always change its mind and give your home another chance, but by then you’ve lost precious time and perhaps allowed a stigma to cloud your home’s value. Intelligent pricing isn’t about getting the most for your home – it’s about getting your home sold quickly at fair market value.

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

CURB APPEAL, A FIRST IMPRESSION THAT LASTS

INFO

First Impressions Most buyers form their first impression of your home before they even get out of their cars. This is “curb appeal,” or the view from the curb that tells the buyer how attractive and well-maintained your home is compared to other homes. In a competitive market, it takes more than trimming the hedges and planting a few flowers to create curb appeal. The exterior of your home must be in pristine condition – freshly painted, cleared of clutter, with no visible repairs needed. A broken step, overgrown bush, or abandoned toys in the yard can spoil the appearance and your buyer’s first impression. Curb Appeal Curb appeal is important because it sets the tone for what the buyer is going to see inside. If the buyer likes the exterior, he or she will be predisposed to also like the interior and you’re that much closer to selling your home. To see what needs to be done to sell your home faster and for a higher price, go outside, stand on the curb and try to look at your home the way the buyer will. Walkways/driveways - Make sure walkways are clear of snow, weeds, or debris. Repair or replace cracked steps or pavers. Driveways should also be clear of vehicles, toys and debris. Park cars in the garage. Landscaping - Keep your lawn mowed, edged and watered. Prune dead branches and plants. Weed flower beds and replace leggy, thin landscaping with fresh plants and flowers. Exterior - Replace loose or damaged roof shingles, clean the gutters, and paint and caulk window trim and doors. Repaint the front door an eye-catching color that complements the rest of the exterior. Replace broken windows. Entry - Power wash siding, brick, windows, and porches. Paint or replace furniture such as rocking chairs or porch swings. Replace mailboxes, light fixtures, door knobs or any other fixture that looks less than fresh. Put out a welcoming new floormat. Some parts of your home may require more work than others, but it’s well worth it to get buyers eager to see what’s inside.

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

SHOWINGS AND OPEN HOUSE CHECKLIST

INFO

Once your home goes on the market, real estate agents may call to show your home anytime, day or evening. Keeping your home "showtime" ready can be challenging, especially if you have children and pets. Showings & Open House checklist • Eliminate clutter: Not only is clutter unattractive, it’s time-consuming to sort through and expensive for you to move. If you have a lot of stuff, collections, and family mementoes, you would be better off renting a small storage unit for a few months. • Keep, donate, throw away: Go through your belongings and put them into one of these three baskets. You’ll receive more in tax benefits for your donations than pennies on the dollar at a garage sale. It’s faster, more efficient and you’ll help more people. • Remove temptations: Take valuable jewelry and collectibles to a safety deposit box, a safe, or store them in a secure location. • Remove breakables: Figurines, china, crystal and other breakables should be packed and put away in the garage or storage. • Be hospitable: You want your home to look like a home. Stage it to show the possibilities, perhaps set the table, or put a throw on the chair by the fireplace with a bookmarked book on the table. • Have a family plan of action: Sometimes showings aren’t convenient. You can always refuse a showing, but do you really want to? If you have a showing with little notice, get the family engaged. Everyone has a basket and picks up glasses, plates, newspapers, or anything left lying about. • Get in the habit: Wash dishes immediately after meals. Clean off countertops. Make beds in the morning. Keep pet toys and beds washed and smelling fresh. • Clean out the garage and attic: Buyers want to see what kind of storage there is. The Essential Five-minute Clean-up for Showings Everyone gets their baskets and cleans up clutter. Check for hazards, like toys left on the floor. Make sure all toys, including bicycles, are put away. • Put pets in daycare, sleep cages or take them with you: In the listing instructions, there should be a warning if there is a big dog on premises. Buyers with allergies also may appreciate knowing in advance if you have pets. • Turn on lights: Open the drapes, turn on lights so buyers can really see. • Give the buyer privacy: The buyer can not come to your home without being accompanied by an agent. The buyer can assess your home more honestly without your presence.

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

MOVING CHECKLIST

INFO

Moving to a new home can be an exciting journey. Whether you’re changing cities or neighborhoods, a move is not only a change in scenery, it’s the start of a new chapter in life. Yet, moving can also be very stressful, often seeming like one thing after another has to be done. By finding the right moving service and having a good, though flexible, moving plan, most of the common moving headaches can be easily avoided. Start planning your move Finding the best mover for your particular needs and at the right price involves a simple evaluation of your needs. Like many service-oriented industries, the moving companies of today have expanded to offer a wide range of services in order to be competitive. From planning your move, to storing your things, to packing and unpacking, to decorating and organizing your belongings in your new home, you can choose the extent of services you require and have them tailored to suit your moving budget. Deciding what to pack isn’t as simple as it sounds, particularly if you’re downsizing, but the amount of goods as well as the type of goods you’re moving can make a big difference in which mover you choose and how much you’ll spend. A good rule of thumb is to group items into no more than three categories - Keep, Donate, Throw Away. Label your things according to the rooms where they’ll be moved – bedroom #2, first floor powder bath by stairs, etc. Provide your movers with copies of the floorplan of your new home, so they can move more efficiently without having to stop and ask you where things go. Lastly, remember that the movers, though they are professionals, will get tired. On the Chicago-based Bernard Movers website, the movers advise keeping boxes under 50 pounds whenever possible. They also strongly recommend putting heavier items in smaller boxes to reduce bulkiness, and lighter items in larger boxes with proper labeling like "topload." Get referrals According to Mayflower.com, one of the nation’s most recognized movers, finding a good moving service begins with asking someone you know - a family member, coworker or a friend about their moving experiences, good or bad. Who do you know who works with people who frequently move? Your real estate professional can also be an excellent source of information. And if you’re being transferred, ask your relocation agent which moving companies their company recommends. Other employees of your company who have preceded your relocation may also be able to suggest a reputable mover. Large industry organizations such as American Moving and Storage Association have associate members listed on their Web sites. These associate moving company members must agree to abide by the terms of the organization's published tariffs and to participate in the Arbitration Program sponsored by the organization, which may be positive for consumers. Although the AMSA doesn't recommend movers, a list of members is posted on the site, along with helpful hints. The AMSA does suggest getting several estimates in order to compare cost and range of services. Consumer organizations such as the Better Business Bureau can give you additional insights. If the company is registered through BBB, then you can find all relevant information from their corporate address, BBB rating, if there are any complaints against the company, the names of any and all management, and any specific licensing that your state may require. Of course one of the many places to start looking for your mover is the Internet. Online you can find and compare many moving companies’ services on their websites. Comparing movers When you compare price and service estimates from several moving companies, you will find that estimates are based on the weight of your household items, the distance they will be moved, and the amount of packing and other services you will require. Be sure to show the estimator every single item that will be moved. Find out if your mover accepts credit cards, third- party payments from your company, or whether the mover operates by cash only. Negotiations with your mover should include a clear understanding of rates and charges that will apply, the mover's liability for your belongings, pick-up and delivery schedules, and claims protection. For example, if you decide to pack some of your own things, your mover will not be liable. If your estimate is binding, it will not cover non-itemized items. Non-binding estimates are not guaranteed rates, and only cover the weight of your shipment, and the cost of the moving services. An estimate still has to be performed before a mover will provide you with a binding contract.

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

If you are moving interstate, you should read and understand all of the information you will receive. In addition to brochures explaining their various services, moving companies should give you a copy of a consumer booklet entitled "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move" and information regarding the mover's participation in a Dispute Settlement Program. Distribution of the consumer booklet and the requirement that movers must offer shippers neutral arbitration as a means of settling disputes that may arise concerning loss or damage on household goods shipments are requirements of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Be prepared Even in the most well-planned moves, something can happen. Insurance is crucial. Check with your homeowner’s insurance carrier about coverage for your belongings while moving. Your mover will provide either released value insurance (about $0.60 per pound of goods lost or damaged, according to NAVL.com) or full replacement value, which you must sign for on your bill of lading. If you are not sure how to estimate the value of your belongings for insurance purposes, your insurance carrier may provide suggestions, such as $10,000 per room or half the value of the new home. Items of special value such as heirlooms, paintings, or collectibles can be insured under separate riders. In the event of damage to an item, file a claim immediately. Be sure to save the packing materials to show to the adjuster, should there be any problems.

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]

THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME

INFO

In a neighborhood of similar homes, why is one worth more than another? That’s the question that’s teased buyers and sellers for ages, but the answer is simple. Every home is different. When a home is sold, a willing seller and a willing buyer have just announced to the world the value of that home. From there, other similar homes are benchmarked, but other factors come into play. The most important are: Location - The closer a home is to jobs, parks, transportation, schools, and community services, the more desirable it is. Size - Square footage impacts home values because they’re built using more materials. Larger lot sizes mean more privacy. Number of bedrooms and baths - Over time, median homes have grown larger. Decades ago, household members shared bedrooms and baths without complaint, but today, families want more privacy. The median home purchased today is a three- bedroom, two-bath home. Features and finishes - Features such as outdoor kitchens and spa baths make a home more luxurious. A home finished with hardwood floors and granite countertops is going to cost more than a home with carpet and laminate countertops. Condition - The closer a home is to new construction, the more it will retain its value. It’s perceived as more modern, up to date, and perhaps safer. Homes that are not updated or in poor repair sell for less. It’s a good idea for homeowners to keep their homes updated and in top repair. Curb appeal - From the street, the home looks clean, fresh, and inviting. Fresh landscaping and flowers won’t change the size or location, but they certainly add charm. When two homes are identical in the same neighborhood, a higher price may come down to something as simple as views, or paint colors, or the overall taste of the homeowner. Valuing a home will never be an exact science, but if you buy wisely, keep your home updated and in good repair, you should recoup most if not all of your investment.

Sabrina Robb | Robb Partners | [email protected]