Category: Advice on moving

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Renting a storage unit can be a convenient solution when you need extra space for your belongings. However, there are some traps that renters often fall into when choosing and using a storage facility. Being aware of these pitfalls can help you avoid hassles and unexpected costs. Here are some common storage unit traps to watch out for:

Trap #1: Not Understanding the Contract Terms
Before signing a rental agreement, carefully read through all the terms and conditions. Look out for things like administration fees, insurance requirements, late payment penalties, and restrictions on what you can store. Clarify anything you don’t understand to avoid surprises down the line.

Trap #2: Not Doing the Math
Before contracting for a storage unit(s), look at what you plan to store. If you will be moving, will you want the things you plan to store? Cull out unneeded items and save money on the size of the unit you choose. That could mean several hundreds or even thousands of dollars in the long run.

Trap#3: Underestimating or Overestimating Space Needs
Cramming a unit too full will make it hard to access your belongings. This can lead to damage and waste. Overestimating will lead to overpaying for unused space. Discuss with the storage company your space and items that you plan to store.

Trap #4: Poor Unit Condition
When viewing units, inspect them thoroughly for any signs of moisture, pests, or structural issues that could damage your goods. Check that locks, lighting, ventilation, and security provisions are adequate. Don’t settle for a substandard unit.

Trap #5: Overlooking Climate Control
If you’re storing valuables, paperwork, furniture, or anything that could get ruined by extreme temperatures and humidity, opting for a climate-controlled unit can prevent damage. Weigh the extra cost against potential losses.

Trap #6: Cheap but Inaccessible
Sometimes the most affordable units are in inconvenient locations or have very limited access hours. Consider the hassle of getting to your stuff when needed. For frequently accessed storage, closer and more accessible may be worth paying a bit more.

Trap #7: Lack of Proper Insurance
Most storage companies require you to have your own insurance to cover anything stored in their units. From the outset, look into getting the right coverage amount and type of policy to adequately protect your belongings.

By doing your homework and being aware of these common traps, you can steer clear of headaches and make sure your storage unit experience is a smooth, secure, and cost-effective one.

Are you planning to sell your house and thinking of renting a storage unit to offload excess belongings? Before putting in more work and expense than might be needed, contact Properties on the Potomac at 703-624-8333 now to discuss your staging needs.

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by Krasi Henkel

Before
After

Hardwood floors are timeless. Case in point: this room with the same flooring, 57 years apart!

As a small child, I lived in a European city, in an apartment with parquet floors covered by Persian carpets. You can imagine my surprise when I first saw the dirt floors in my great-grandparents’ farmhouse. I thought that it was primitive that a house would have earthen floors, although they were perfectly even and spotless!

Floors always catch my attention. Over my lengthy real estate career, I have witnessed flooring fads appear and become obsolete. One style seems to persist: hardwood floors. 

In the 1980s, hardwoods emerged for formal living spaces, with tile in foyers, kitchens, and baths. The late 1990s and 2000s brought a laminate vogue, but laminates sounded hollow and were water-prone. Today, we have luxury vinyl planks (LVP) resembling wood grain minus the hollow feel of the laminates.

Most of my clients seem to prefer hardwood floors. Why? Hardwood floors provide adaptability. They are a neutral canvas that invites rugs, furnishings, and varied décor. Even if refinished every 10-15 years, quality hardwoods can last 50+ years.

In contrast, carpets don’t stand the test of time. After 20 years, I replaced wall-to-wall carpeting in my last bedroom. I found the padding had deteriorated to dust. On the surface, the carpet looked perfect. Padding deterioration is one reason that carpets are blamed for allergens and irritants.

Hardwood floors offer flexibility and diversity. Nicks and scrapes can be repaired and colors can be altered. Planks can be replaced or inserted for remodeling and with proper refinishing, will look untouched. Historic residences display pine or oak floors after centuries. Unlike trends that become outdated, hardwood endures.

A herringbone parquet pattern is always in style

Considered the “little black dress” of flooring, classic hardwood floors are the base elevating your unique style. As evening gowns over proper foundations, your walls, furniture, and accents will draw the gaze — not your “basics.” 

In selecting floors for a new build, remember that typically only two to three feet of floors remain visible after furniture and rugs. You can save thousands by making smart selections in favor of a classic floor and guard against the impulse for exotic woods, patterns, or unique plank widths. What about scuffs, heels, and pets? Those show that people live and enjoy there. Patina.

One question often arises: whether finished-in-place or pre-finished floors are preferable. That depends. Today’s pre-finished floors offer extensive protective coating making them very durable with pets and children. The smooth elegance of finished-in-place floors is hard to pass up, but again, only small sections are visible. That is a personal choice with minimal cost difference.

The bottom line: staying with classic hardwood flooring will save money and prevent future refuse (in the form of old, out-of-style carpet.) With a look toward the future, keeping your hardwood floors while modernizing the decor above them will save you thousands.

In the market for a home with classic hardwood flooring? Give Properties on the Potomac a call at 703-624-8333 to help you find your perfect flooring canvas!

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Properties on the Potomac has had MANY successful (and happy!) clients

Properties on the Potomac has helped countless clients buy and sell homes. Over the years, we’ve noticed some common traits and habits that the most successful homebuyers and sellers exhibit. If you want to set yourself up for real estate success, here are 6 traits our clients share:

  1. They know their numbers. Successful buyer clients understand their finances. They know their credit scores, debt-to-income ratios, and how much they can comfortably afford. Successful selling clients understand the market and follow our pricing advice.
  2. They are realistic about timing. Our successful clients realize that buying or selling a home takes time. They start the process well in advance of when they need to move.
  3. They know what they want. Successful clients have clear “must haves” and “would like to haves” prioritized for their home search. Our selling clients have clear goals for their sale.
  4. They declutter and clean. For sellers, our most successful clients thoroughly declutter and clean their home before listing. They follow our recommendations for “facelifts” to optimize their returns. This helps showcase the property and helps buyers envision living there.
  5. They trust their agent. Successful clients lean on their agent’s expertise. They understand we’re looking out for their best interests through every step.
  6. They stay calm through challenges. Even if issues arise, successful clients take problems in stride. They stay focused on their goals.

If you cultivate these habits and mindsets, you’ll be well on your way to real estate success. Give Properties on the Potomac a call at 703-624-8333 to help make your real estate dreams a reality. With over 100 years of combined experience in the DC area, we bring our clients nothing but the best!

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By Krasi Henkel

As opinions have currency in real estate, the cultured credibility offered by a home library can sway buyers and add significant value to a house. Though e-readers and digital books are common, there remains strong appeal to the tangible permanence and character of print books lining built-in shelves.

More than a storage place for novels and non-fiction, the home library represents intellectualism and refined tastes which many affluent buyers seek in a residence. Beyond superficial decor, an elegant library signals the substance of both current and past owners. It communicates that interesting dinner conversations, music, and art have filled those rooms.

Built-in bookcases hold special weight over stand-alone shelving. They demonstrate forethought in the home’s original design and construction and cannot be easily moved or changed on impulse like furniture. As integral house features, custom built-in bookcases can add 10-15% of their initial cost to listing prices. Their fixed nature also means volumes collected over years remain on display.

The permanence, personalization, and intellectual substance embodied in a home library comprises a unique asset. For buyers seeking both image and lifestyle, rooms of books can add eight to fifteen percent in perceived worth…or perhaps prove literally priceless among competing listings.

In showcasing owners’ sophistication, libraries reveal character that cannot be fabricated. Where furniture and paint colors change on trends, libraries accumulate over lifetimes. They bestow cultured credibility more reliable than passing fashions. For buyers sharing such values, a house with a library makes tangible the intellectual and cultural traditions they wish to perpetuate.

 

If you’re in search of a home with a library, or perhaps a home with the perfect space to build the library of your dreams, we’re here to help! Call Properties on the Potomac at 703-624-8333 today.

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With a new year here, many of us are making plans to move or upgrade residences. 2024 is likely to see a lot of pent-up demand for housing changes. When planning a move, there are some key things to consider — one major consideration is moving your belongings from one property to another. It’s easy to underestimate how much you have accumulated until you have to pack it up! Proper planning and preparation are essential for a smooth move.

Interview and Vet Potential Movers Thoroughly
If you’re going to hire movers, spend time interviewing several companies. Ask detailed questions about how many people they will send, what packing materials they use, their techniques for safely packing and transporting special items like pianos or delicate cabinets; their process for labeling boxes;  and their overall track record. Check online reviews. Understand exactly what they will and will not pack. You want to avoid surprises or having your items packed haphazardly, and worse, damage

Key Questions to Ask Prospective Moving Companies

Here are 5 must-ask questions (aside from pricing) when interviewing potential movers:

  1. How many people will you send for packing/loading/unloading?
  2. What packing materials and techniques will you use for both general items and fragile items?
  3. How will you label boxes so I know what room they should go in?
  4. What is your track record and reviews for packing/moving services?
  5. What exactly will you pack vs. not pack (e.g. open food, plants, etc.)?

Sort, Purge and Organize Your Belongings
Go through all of your closets, storage spaces, the basement; anywhere items have accumulated over the years. Sort seasonal items and pack away off-season things you will not need right away. This is the perfect opportunity to purge and donate anything you no longer want or need. Donate unopened boxes from previous moves – don’t bother opening them since you have not needed those items – let those go. Make a placement plan of what rooms items will go and how you will use them, so that boxes will be placed in the right rooms. If you cannot place an item or find a use for it in your new home, let it go.

Planning Will Save You Stress
Moving is extremely stressful. However, with detailed planning, purging/organizing ahead of time, and vetting your movers thoroughly, it can go much more smoothly.

For advice on prepping your property for sale or finding your next home, contact Properties on the Potomac at 703-624-8333 — we’re happy to help and discuss options. Wishing you all the best with your 2024 move!

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When putting your house on the market, making it appealing to potential buyers must be top priority. An often overlooked but incredibly effective strategy: decluttering. Removing excess items throughout your home not only makes it look cleaner but can also help streamline the moving process.

Why Declutter?

Decluttering does far more than just tidy up – it creates an environment optimized for selling. Here are some of the biggest benefits:

  • Enhanced Curb Appeal: First impressions make or break the deal. Remove clutter from the yard and exterior areas to impress buyers from the moment they drive up.
  • Spacious Interior: Removing excess furniture and other items makes rooms appear more spacious. Buyers can better envision their own belongings in clear spaces.
  • Highlight Home Features: Decluttering directs focus toward your home’s best selling points like ceilings, floors, and fixtures. Remove distracting items to spotlight unique architectural elements.
  • Easier Packing: Decluttering before listing means having less to pack and move. This streamlines your moving process and reduces stress.
  • Audience Appeal: Decluttering creates a neutral canvas that appeals to the widest range of potential buyers.

The Downsizing Process

Decluttering an entire home can feel overwhelming. You may want to consider getting help from a professional organizer and downsizing expert. Their specialized services include:

  • Customized Plans: Every home and situation is unique. Professionals tailor the decluttering approach to match your needs and timeline.
  • Objective Guidance: They provide unbiased input to help determine what items to keep, sell, donate, or discard. Their perspective helps clients make clear choices.
  • Space Optimization: Experts have creative solutions to maximize storage and efficiency in every area from closets to the family room to pantries.
  • Packing/Unpacking Aid: Professionals assist with properly packing belongings for the move, then help unpack and arrange your new home.
  • Stress Relief: Having an experienced specialist handle decluttering reduces the anxiety surrounding your moving process.

By investing in downsizing assistance before listing your home, you not only make the property shine, but also gain peace of mind. A decluttered home opens the door to new possibilities.

Are you planning a move or maybe you’re simply tired of the clutter? Contact Properties on the Potomac at 703-624-8333 to get a referral to one of our trusted experts.

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Are you planning to sell your home? Getting your home ready to sell can be an exciting and stressful time. You may be thinking about making updates or whether it’s worth it to stage your home. But one thing you should always consider before inviting potential buyers into your space is the safety of your home, valuables, and personal information. Below are valuable tips on how to keep your home and valuables safe while it’s listed for sale.

1) Secure Your Valuables & Medications: Before listing your home, take an inventory of your valuable items and consider moving them to a secure location. This might include important documents, jewelry, electronics, and heirlooms. If possible, use a safe or rent a safety deposit box at your local bank. Secure any prescription medications in a locked cabinet or drawer. This is both for your safety and to prevent potential theft. Put away any breakables as well.

2) Remove Personal Information: Remove any personal information from your home, including bills, mail, and identification. Identity theft is a real concern, and it’s best to safeguard your personal data.

3) Install Proper Lighting: A well-lit property is less attractive to potential burglars. This is especially important if you have already moved and no one will be living in your home while it’s on the market. Consider installing motion-activated lights around your property, especially in entryways and dark corners.

4) Update Your Locks: Ensure that all locks on doors and windows are in good working condition. Consider upgrading to smart locks that allow you to monitor and control access remotely.

5) Maintain Landscaping: Trim bushes and trees near windows and entryways to eliminate potential hiding spots for burglars. A well-maintained landscape also gives the impression that the property is actively cared for. Again, this is especially important if your home is empty before selling.

6) Be Cautious with Showings: When scheduling showings, work with your real estate agent to establish strict protocols. Ensure that all potential buyers are accompanied by a licensed realtor. Properties on the Potomac realtors always use tamper proof, electronic lockboxes–that way we can see a log of everyone who has accessed the box and when.

7) Consider Security Cameras: Installing security cameras can provide an added layer of protection. Nowadays, there are affordable options that allow you to monitor your property remotely through a smartphone app.

8) Get to Know Your Neighbors: Your neighbors can be valuable allies in home security. Inform them about your plans to sell your home and ask them to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity.

Keeping your home and valuables safe while it’s listed for sale requires careful planning and precautions. By following these tips and working with a reputable real estate company like Properties on the Potomac, you can confidently navigate the selling process while safeguarding your home and belongings. Your security matters to us, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Planning to sell soon? Give Properties on the Potomac a call at 703-623-8333.

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Fall is a magical time of year: the air becomes crisp, the landscape is filled with vibrant hues, cozy sweaters reappear, and the calendar fills with fun outdoor activities. While you’re savoring apple cider donuts, navigating corn mazes, and getting spooked in haunted houses, there’s one more item you might consider adding to your fall checklist: buying a new home. Fall is an excellent time to embark on the exciting journey of finding your dream house. Here’s a look at the fantastic fall activities you can enjoy while on your house hunting adventure:

1. Apple Cider Donuts: Start your day with the sweet scent of freshly baked apple cider donuts. Many local orchards and farmers’ markets offer these delightful treats, making it the perfect way to kick off a day of house hunting. One of our favorite spots is The Apple House in Linden, VA but if you’re looking for something a little closer, check out any of the District Donut locations.

2. Corn Mazes: Navigating through a corn maze can be both thrilling and challenging. It’s an excellent way to spend quality time with family and friends while enjoying the fall weather. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to explore different neighborhoods and their unique charms. Butler’s Orchard in Maryland or Cox Farm in Virginia are great options.

3. Haunted Houses: Fall wouldn’t be complete without a visit to a haunted house. As you get your adrenaline pumping and your heart racing, take the opportunity to ask locals about the best places to live and what makes their neighborhoods special. One of the best haunted experiences in the area is Markoff’s Haunted Forest in Maryland!

4. Picking Apples: Apple picking is a quintessential fall activity. While you’re plucking ripe apples from the trees, take a moment to consider what you’d like in your future backyard. Maybe it’s a space for a small orchard of your own! Check out Great Country Farms in Bluemont, VA. Go pick some apples and then make a few stops at one of the great wineries or breweries in the area!

5. Nature Walks/Leaf Peeping: The fall foliage offers stunning views during nature walks. While admiring the beauty of the changing leaves, explore various neighborhoods and envision yourself living there. Take notes of the homes that catch your eye. Check out the foliage in Rock Creek Park in DC or head out west to see the Blue Ridge Mountains transform into a sea of color. A fun hike is just down the street from Great Country Farms up to Bear’s Den. Park in the parking lot off Route 7 and hike up for beautiful scenic vistas looking west.

6. Bonfires: Gather around a crackling bonfire in your solo stove or gas firepit with friends and family to toast marshmallows and tell ghost stories. It’s also an excellent time to discuss your home-buying plans and get advice from those who’ve been through the process.

7. Buy a House: Of course, the ultimate fall activity on your list could be buying a new home. Fall is an excellent time to purchase real estate. The market tends to be less competitive, and sellers are often motivated. With fewer buyers in the mix, you’ll have a better chance of finding the perfect home at a reasonable price.

Finding your dream home can be an exciting journey, and the charm of autumn can make it even more memorable. If you’re ready to turn your house hunting into a reality, contact us at Properties on the Potomac at 703-624-8333. We’ll help you navigate the real estate market and find the perfect home to create lasting memories this fall and for many seasons to come. Enjoy the beauty of autumn, and let it inspire your next adventure in homeownership. Happy house hunting!

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The aspiration of homeownership, often regarded as a key driver of wealth for many Americans, faces significant hurdles in the current real estate landscape. The housing market has evolved into a complex arena, particularly for first-time home buyers. This blog post delves into the challenges encountered by these buyers, exploring factors such as high interest rates and soaring property prices that are reshaping the journey toward owning a home.

First-Time Home Buyers at a Crossroads
As economic conditions shift, those looking to purchase their first homes have found themselves facing slow economic growth since entering the workforce. Coupled with student loan debt and childcare expenses, their path to homeownership has been far from smooth. Rising interest rates and elevated property prices have further compounded their challenges, influencing their purchasing power and timelines. As a result, the median age of first-time home buyers has risen to 36, marking a departure from historical trends.

The Struggle for First-Time Buyers
The housing market’s changing landscape is evident from the numbers. Federal Reserve data indicates a 26% increase in median home prices since early 2020, with average prices reaching $416,100 nationally. This surge is particularly noticeable in the Northeast and the West. Meanwhile, the average 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage is currently hovering around 7%, nearly triple the rate recorded in 2021!

Navigating Uncertainty
First-time home buyers, regardless of their generational labels, find themselves at a crossroads due to the unpredictability of interest rates and property values. The adage “marry the house, date the rate” has gained popularity, suggesting that buyers secure a property and consider refinancing later when rates drop. However, experts caution that this approach comes with inherent risks and complexities. Refinancing entails costs that need to be balanced against potential savings from lower rates.

Planning for the Future
For those contemplating their first home purchase, the dilemma of whether to buy now or await changes in rates and prices is a significant consideration. Amidst the prevailing uncertainty, experts advise careful planning and preparation. Acknowledging the reality of high interest rates and planning for them is a prudent strategy. The historical pattern of fluctuating rates underscores the importance of making decisions aligned with long-term financial objectives, rather than attempting to time the market. If you wait until rates drop, we will see a surge of homebuyers flooding back into the market, raising prices further.

The evolving housing market presents a challenging landscape for first-time home buyers with dreams of owning their own homes. Despite the hurdles, first-time home buyers persist in their pursuit of a place to call their own, working to reshape the American dream for their generation.

At Properties on the Potomac, we understand the unique challenges that first-time home buyers face in today’s dynamic market. Our dedicated team of professionals has a proven track record of successfully guiding clients through these complexities to find the right property for them. With a deep understanding of market trends, interest rate fluctuations, and financial planning, we provide personalized solutions tailored to each client’s needs. Our commitment to empowering first-time home buyers sets us apart, as we strive to make the journey to homeownership a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Give us a call at 703-624-8333 today–with our expertise by your side, you can confidently navigate this intricate market and secure a place to call your own.

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Home is where the heart is, but it can also be a potential source of hidden dangers, one of which is radon gas. Many homeowners might not even be aware of the existence of this invisible threat lurking in their home. So…what is it? And, more importantly, why should I care if I have it in my home? Read on for the answers:

What is Radon?
Radon is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that occurs naturally in the environment. It is formed through the decay of uranium, thorium, and radium present in soil, rocks, and water. When radon is released into the air, it disperses and becomes diluted, posing little to no threat. However, it becomes hazardous when it accumulates in enclosed spaces, such as homes, reaching high concentrations that can lead to serious health issues.

What are the Health Risks of Radon Exposure?
Radon exposure is a serious health concern as it is the second leading cause of lung cancer, trailing only behind smoking. The radioactive particles released by decaying radon can be inhaled, and when they break down further, they can damage the lung tissue, potentially leading to lung cancer over time. Non-smokers can also be at risk, but the danger is significantly higher for smokers exposed to radon.

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), approximately 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the US can be attributed to radon exposure. The risk is especially high for those who have spent many years living in homes with elevated radon levels.

Why Should I Test for Radon?
1. Protect Your Health and Loved Ones

As mentioned earlier, radon is invisible, tasteless, and odorless, making it impossible to detect without specialized testing. By testing your home for radon, you can gain awareness of any potential hazards and take necessary actions to mitigate the risks. It’s about safeguarding the health of your loved ones, particularly children and the elderly, who might be more vulnerable to its effects.

2. Identify High Radon Levels in Your Home

Radon levels can vary significantly from one home to another, even if they are located in the same neighborhood. The only way to know the radon concentration in a particular home is through testing. By conducting a radon test, homeowners can determine if their property’s radon levels are within safe limits or if mitigation measures are necessary.

3. Peace of Mind

Testing for radon provides homeowners with peace of mind. Knowing that your living spaces are free from hazardous radon concentrations allows you to enjoy your home without the constant worry of potential health risks.

4. Easy and Affordable Testing

Radon testing is a simple and relatively inexpensive process. Homeowners can purchase DIY radon test kits or hire a professional radon testing service to assess the levels in their homes. In fact, some states and local governments offer free or discounted radon test kits to encourage testing.

How Do I Protect Against Radon?
If your radon test reveals elevated levels, there’s no need to panic. Several effective methods can be employed to reduce radon concentrations in your home. Radon mitigation systems, such as soil suction, sub-slab depressurization, and ventilation techniques, can significantly lower radon levels, ensuring a safer living environment for you and your family.

Radon is a silent threat that could be present in any home. While it remains invisible to our senses, the health risks associated with long-term exposure to elevated radon levels are very real. By taking the proactive step of testing for radon, homeowners can protect themselves and their loved ones from potential health hazards. Regular radon testing should be an essential part of maintaining a safe and healthy home environment. Don’t let this unseen danger compromise your well-being—get your home tested for radon today!

At Properties on the Potomac, we care deeply about your well-being and are committed to helping you navigate any radon-related concerns. Call us at 703-624-8333 for professional recommendations for radon testing and mitigation services. Your safety and peace of mind are important.