Posts By: Marketing Team

The 5 Biggest Mistakes People Make When They’re Moving – and How to Avoid Them

By Jason Lindwall, President of Move Concierge

Moving into a new home can be an exciting time filled with new opportunities and fresh beginnings. But the process of packing up your life and relocating can also be stressful—and costly—especially if you fall into common pitfalls. While partnering with Move Concierge will help make your move smoother and more efficient, here are some of the biggest mistakes people make when moving, and how to avoid them.

1. Not Planning Ahead

One of the most common mistakes is leaving everything to the last minute. Without a solid plan, moving can quickly become chaotic and overwhelming. From booking a moving company to organizing packing materials, every task should be scheduled in advance to ensure a smooth process. Waiting too long can lead to higher costs, limited mover availability, and unnecessary stress.

2. Underestimating Time and Effort

Many people assume they can pack up their entire home in a day or two. In reality, packing often takes much longer than expected, especially if you’re trying to stay organized. Rushing your move leads to broken items, disorganization, and a rough transition into your new home. Start early, pack room by room, and label everything clearly.

3. Failing to Declutter

Moving is the perfect opportunity to let go of things you no longer use or need. Yet, many people make the mistake of packing everything, including clutter. Not only does this waste time and space, but it can also increase moving costs. Take time before you start the moving process to sort through your belongings and donate, sell, or dispose of what you no longer want.

4. Not Researching Moving Companies

Choosing the wrong moving company can turn your move into a nightmare. Some movers charge hidden fees or don’t handle items with care. Always research companies thoroughly: read reviews, compare quotes, and check for proper licensing and insurance. Don’t just go with the cheapest option—choose reliability and professionalism.

5. Forgetting to Update Important Information

It’s easy to overlook important details like forwarding your mail, transferring utilities, or updating your address with banks and other institutions. Failing to do this can result in missed bills, service interruptions, or even identity theft. Make a checklist of everyone who needs your new address and tackle it early, or partner with Move Concierge and we’ll take care of everything for you.

Final Thoughts

Moving is a big job, but it doesn’t have to be a stressful one. By avoiding these common mistakes—failing to plan, underestimating the workload, moving clutter, choosing unreliable movers, and forgetting essential updates—you’ll save time, money, and hassle. A well-organized move sets the stage for a successful fresh start in your new home.

Move Concierge: The Next Greatest Opportunity

By Gabe Abshire, CEO of Move Concierge

In 2007 and 2008, the housing finance market seemed well on its way to grinding to a complete halt. During that time, the real estate advisor guru Bill Dallas repeated a line of encouragement on his self-help recordings: “The greatest opportunity in home finance history is just right on the other side of this crisis.”

The more things change, the more they stay the same.

Today’s real estate market, as in Bill Dallas’s day, is facing the greatest opportunity. The volume of real estate transactions will only increase once interest rates and home values begin to decline slowly, perhaps as early as the end of this year. Move Concierge is already seeing an uptick in potential homebuyers searching for our services. As more people return to the office, they require relocation services. This trend is set to continue for the foreseeable future.

How can real estate agents position themselves to capitalize on that success? The best preparation is getting ahead of the opportunity. Who will be looking to move and what support  will they need?

Our database indicates that a popular home buying age is approximately 43 years old. That number is even among male and female buyers. A little above half are married, and most say they want to start a family. 

We’ve mined our data to gain a deeper understanding of who is moving, discovering that 91% of movers are homeowners, not renters, and most are relocating to single-family properties. 

Among recent movers, the average home value is about $358k, according to our data, with most moving to cities or high-growth suburban areas, and the average tenure is just 2.6 years. Interestingly, only 10% of movers have children at home, suggesting that younger couples, singles and empty nesters comprise a generous portion of the mover demographic.

Predictably, a large chunk of homebuyers are top-tier Internet users – 69%, according to our research. They are digital natives and very responsive to text messaging. Top-performing real estate agents understand the value of providing a smooth move, with plenty of options available for Internet service providers, home warranties, and smart home functionality. 

Analyzing market data and database insights like these reveals the key characteristics, preferences, and requirements of this demographic. This can allow agents to tailor their services to meet these specific needs of prospective clients, which will inevitably lead to greater success.

Adding Move Concierge services to an agent’s offerings can provide a more comprehensive service package that addresses the complexities of both buying and selling. By working with Move Concierge, real estate agents can help their clients with everything from home security systems to cable installation, utility set-up, home warranties and more. By extending these services, agents can enhance their value proposition and deepen their client relationships, demonstrating that they are willing to go the extra mile for clients to ensure a smooth transition to a new home.

Diplomacy plays a crucial role in navigating real estate transactions, particularly during periods of change. Agents must effectively mediate and communicate between all parties involved to ensure smooth transactions. Providing personalized, in-house services builds trust and ensures quality, and offering choices is key. Providing clients a range of options and solutions allows them to feel more in control and satisfied. The ability to choose services that best fit their needs will attract and retain clients, driving success in the real estate market.

From Startup Vision To Industry Leader

PROGRESS In Lending Association is a publication that aims to help lending executives grow their business by boiling down the latest news and trends into sound strategies. The news outlet interviewed Move Concierge CEO Gabe Abshire to discuss the company’s future and the state of the U.S. mortgage market.

“What started as an idea has grown into a company culture built on core values, with one that stands out above all others: delivering mind-blowing customer experiences,” Abshire said. “We’ve spent 16 years changing the way people think about moving, creating the modern way to move through experiences that truly wow our customers while building an environment where great people can do their best work.”

Read the full article here.

How to Choose the Best Smart Home Alarm System

In today’s world, home security is more important than ever. And, with a spate of high-profile burglaries, it is clear that even celebrities are not safe, and these criminals know no boundaries. Robbers even targeted the home of high-profile couple Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman on Valentine’s Day. Valentine’s Day! 

Thankfully, household staff working for the couple scared away the would-be perpetrators. But what happens when your home gets targeted and no one is home? It can happen to anyone who doesn’t take the necessary precautions. 

A home gets broken into every 13 seconds in the United States. And it usually happens in the middle of the day when everyone is away at work and school. Robbers often brazenly go straight through your front door if they see that there isn’t a Smart Home Alarm System at the property.

But keep in mind a great Smart Home Alarm System doesn’t just protect the outside of the home, but also monitors the inside in case there is a fire (smoke and heat sensors) or medical emergency (panic buttons) at the premises. These systems can also control the thermostats, doors and lights. Imagine being on vacation for a few weeks and every night the lights come on. No one would suspect that you are gone!

So, how do you choose the best home security system for your needs? Move Concierge offers the following checklist to help you answer that question and get started. If you’d like to simplify the process, a Move Concierge team member can efficiently handle the setup of your Smart Home Security for you. 

Deterrents

  • Cameras: Outdoor cameras can deter burglars and provide valuable footage in the event of a break-in.
  • Outdoor sensors: These sensors can detect motion and trigger an alarm or notification.
  • Speakers to warn thieves: Some security systems include speakers that can be used to alert thieves that they have been detected.
  • Signs in the yard: Signs advertising your security system can also deter burglars.

Precautions

  • Better locks: Upgrade your locks to deadbolts and consider adding a security bar to your door.
  • Armored door frame: An armored door frame can help to prevent burglars from kicking in your door.
  • Metal doors: Metal doors are more challenging to break down than wooden doors.
  • Monitored security: Having monitored security systems can provide peace of mind, knowing that your home is being continuously monitored 24/7. Some insurance companies may also offer homeowners insurance discounts if you have a monitored security system in place.

Once you have considered these factors, you can begin shopping for a home security system. With numerous systems available on the market, it is essential to conduct thorough research and select one that suits your specific needs. The best part is that today’s Smart Home Alarm Systems can also work with existing alarm systems, making the process more time-efficient.  

However, a more effective move would be to bring in the experts. Let Move Concierge secure your home for you. Our team can customize the perfect home security system tailored to your home and your needs. Every situation is different, and we are aligned with some of the largest security providers in the nation, enabling us to deliver high-quality security solutions at the most competitive cost. Need door and window motion sensors? We got you covered. Want to add a smart thermostat and indoor cameras to control everything from your smartphone? Consider it DONE. 

Move Concierge doesn’t just set you up in your new home. We keep you safe and secure so you can sleep well at night. 24/7. Our security services never sleep. We are your safest bet for security.

Move Concierge Earns Prestigious DIRECTV Dealer of the Year Revolution Award

Home services pioneer demonstrates consistent excellence with top honor


DALLAS; June 4, 2025 – Move Concierge, the leader in home services and utility set-up for homebuyers, is pleased to announce that it has been named DIRECTV’s Revolution Award as Dealer of the Year. This prestigious recognition is evidence of Move Concierge’s exceptional sales performance and highlights the company’s commitment to provide a best-in-class experience to consumers at a pivotal time in their homeownership journey.

“We are honored to receive this recognition from DIRECTV,” said Move Concierge COO Kevin Hockenjos. “It’s a celebration of the hard work and dedication of our talented team, which consistently goes above and beyond to exceed our clients’ expectations. We are extremely pleased to have been named Dealer of the Year, and we look forward to continuing to build on our success in the years to come.”

“Move Concierge’s commitment to sales excellence is unparalleled,” added DIRECTV Assistant Vice President Eric King. “The company’s recent expansion provides the ability to reliably deliver outstanding results in sales volume, quality, and retention, and we look forward to continuing to work together to achieve even greater success.”


Move Concierge remains dedicated to its core values of being humble, communicating with transparency, and building a positive culture. The company is committed to providing its clients with innovative solutions to make the moving process easier and seamless for its clients, and it is proud to have earned the trust and loyalty of its local community.


About Move Concierge
Move Concierge is a leading service for connecting utilities and home services like TV, internet, phone, home automation and security. The company’s no-cost, white-glove service provides clients with a personal concierge to customize a whole-home connection plan, place orders and schedule installations for each service — all with a single point of contact. Since its founding in 2009, the company has been dedicated to surpassing great customer service, setting the bar by providing a mind-blowing client experience. Move Concierge was named one of the fastest-growing companies in the U.S. by Inc. Magazine.

Move Concierge Taps Gary Frank to Lead Marketing

New VP of Marketing to Accelerate Rapid Growth

Dallas; May 27, 2025 — Move Concierge, the leader in home services and utility set-up for homebuyers, has hired marketing veteran Gary Frank to head its marketing efforts. 

Frank comes to the Move Concierge team with more than two decades of experience in B2C and B2B marketing, working with notable brands that include Walt Disney Pictures, DreamWorks, Honda/Acura, PG&E, Chuck E. Cheese’s and Studio Movie Grill. During his career, Frank has demonstrated success developing growth strategies for challenger brands across multiple industries and is skilled at leveraging data-driven insights and creative strategies to drive business results.

In his new role, Frank will lead the charge in marketing innovation—bringing to life the mind-blowing experiences delivered every day to Move Concierge’s clients, partners, and team members. From reimagining brand storytelling to launching bold new campaigns, he’s focused on turning every interaction into a memorable experience.

“We are thrilled to welcome Gary to the Move Concierge team,” said Gabe Abshire, Founder and CEO of Move Concierge. “His extensive marketing background and proven expertise working to develop national brands into household names will be essential to taking Move Concierge to the next level.”

About Move Concierge
Move Concierge is a revolutionary service for connecting utilities and home services like TV, internet, phone, home automation and security. The company’s no-cost, white-glove service provides clients with a personal concierge to customize a whole-home connection plan, place orders and schedule installations for each service — all with a single point of contact. Since its founding in 2009, the company has been dedicated to surpassing great customer service, setting the bar by providing a mind-blowing client experience. Move Concierge was named one of the fastest-growing companies in the U.S. by Inc. Magazine.

U.S. home price growth saw a slight dip in February: Case-Shiller index

The Scotsman Guide is the go-to publication for mortgage loan officers, who closely watch housing prices increase. Reporter Luke Baynes noted that U.S. home prices registered a 3.9% annual gain in February, down slightly from January’s 4.1% year-over-year increase, according to S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller U.S. National Home Price Index data released Tuesday. Jason Lindwall, president of home move-in service company Move Concierge, said he thinks the home sales volume will increase in due time.

“This week’s economic reports highlight the American consumer is shifting from spending to saving,” Lindwall commented. “This is actually good news for housing, as once families fill their coffers a bit more, they will be looking to put that money to work. With home values still remaining strong despite ongoing global trade tensions, real estate will be a relatively safe harbor for more and more Americans.”

Read full article on Scotsman Guide

Leaving the US? Experts Explain Whether It’s a Good Financial Move To Keep or Sell Your House

Popular personal finance advice website GoBankingRates explored the trend that a small but growing number of American homeowners are interested in moving abroad. Reporter Jake Safane interviewed Gabe Abshire, founder and CEO of Move Concierge, to get his thoughts on the financial burdens these families will face if they move to another country.

“Homeowners leaving the country for a long time should consider selling if they don’t have the means to cover the expensive costs associated with renting. If you can’t rent your property, you are still on the hook with maintenance and taxes, without that monthly rent check,” said Gabe.

Plus, trying to manage your property abroad can be more of a hassle than it’s worth.

“Being a landlord is tough enough when you are local; when you live several time zones away, management becomes even more of a challenge,” Abshire explained.

Granted, there are all sorts of property management companies that can help you with the logistics, but that adds another cost, and it doesn’t guarantee that you’ll have renters.

“The risk is what happens if the home goes unoccupied for an extended amount of time. If that happens, the entire cost will fall to you, so be sure you have enough capital to cover all your bases if you don’t want to let go of your American home,” Abshire said.

Read the full article on GOBankingRates.com

Move Concierge Celebrates 16 Years of Helping Americans Effortlessly Move into New Homes

Pioneer in home set-up services reaches milestone

Dallas; April 16, 2025 — Move Concierge, a revolutionary service that connects utilities and home services for new homebuyers, is celebrating 16 years in business. The milestone is a testament to Move Concierge’s astute ability to successfully deliver a best-in-class experience to consumers at a pivotal time in their homeownership journey, allowing the company to weather economic downturns and grow despite dramatic shifts in the real estate market.

From its inception, Move Concierge has maintained a clear mission: to make the moving process easier and seamless for its clients. It is a pioneer in the home services set-up industry with a mission to create a one-stop shop to serve everyone’s moving needs, which it does thanks to its vibrant and client-focused company culture.

“What sets Move Concierge apart is its core service of personalized utility set-up and home service coordination, along with its unique approach of providing each client with dedicated concierge support tailored to their specific needs,” said Gabe Abshire, Founder and CEO of Move Concierge. “Our company emphasizes empowering clients by providing them with information that allows them to make informed choices during their transitions. I can’t wait to see what the next 16 years bring for our team!”

Launched during the 2008 housing crash and economic downturn, Move Concierge survived and thrived during the pandemic-driven real estate surge and shifting market demands through strategic partnerships with real estate professionals and a robust referral network of professional service providers. The company has always emphasized the need to give clients choices when it comes to selecting a provider, and it upholds a commitment to transparent communication for everyone involved in the moving process as part of its unwavering focus on being a trusted partner during uncertain times.

A key component of Move Concierge’s recent growth lies within its strategic effort to expand into new markets, including single- and multi-family rentals and the home title business.

“At Move Concierge, we are always looking for new ways to elevate the moving experience for larger groups of consumers,” said Move Concierge President Jason Lindwall. “We have the unique ability to leverage best-in-class technology to enhance our efficiencies and deliver high-performance results, and that’s exactly what we’re doing to revolutionize the moving process for American consumers.”

Looking ahead, Move Concierge remains focused on improving its clients’ relocation experiences using cutting-edge tech and AI that will enable the connection of multiple home services within minutes. By transforming how individuals approach their relocations, Move Concierge will uphold its standing as a leader in the industry.

Move Concierge extends its heartfelt gratitude to all customers, partners, and team members who have trusted the company over the past 16 years. With appreciation, the company eagerly anticipates the future, with the goal of another 16 years filled with transition empowerment through informed choices.

About Move Concierge
Move Concierge is a revolutionary service for connecting utilities and home services like TV, internet, phone, home automation and security. The company’s no-cost, white-glove service provides clients with a personal concierge to customize a whole-home connection plan, place orders and schedule installations for each service — all with a single point of contact. Since its founding in 2009, the company has been dedicated to surpassing great customer service, setting the bar by providing a mind-blowing client experience. Move Concierge was named one of the fastest-growing companies in the U.S. by Inc. Magazine.

March inflation drops to lowest point in more than 3 years

Tariffs could derail progress on inflation

At the beginning of April, financial journalists nationwide watched consumer price movements closely. Fox Business reporter Nora Colomer stated: Despite concerns about the effects of President Trump’s tariffs, the Fed continues to hold interest rates steady, and it’s not expected to make any significant changes soon, including a potential rate cut. While tariffs could lead to higher inflation and slower economic growth, the Fed is waiting for more clarity on the full impact of these policies before deciding on any course of action. Move Concierge CEO Gabe Abshire remarked, “Considering the housing sector has lower exposure to the current global trade environment, it would be helpful for the Fed to lower rates and boost the Spring and Summer home buying market.”

Read the full article on Fox Business.