Posts By: mmelton

Get to Know Our Team – Gabe Abshire, Move Concierge Founder & CEO

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Let’s dive into Gabe Abshire’s story and get to know the man behind Move Concierge.

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by all the little details when moving? Gabe’s been there, and he’s made it his mission to take the stress out of your moving experience.

The Birth of Move Concierge

Picture this: You’re about to move, and your mind is racing with questions.

“Who’s got the best internet in my new neighborhood?”

“Which utility providers do I need to switch to?”

“I should look into home security, but which one?”

Sound familiar? These are the exact headaches Gabe set out to solve with an idea he had twenty years ago. He was knee-deep in the satellite TV installation business, constantly dealing with time-consuming hassles on both sides of what should be a simpler setup. Gabe’s entrepreneurial spirit kicked in. He saw an opportunity to help people with their pesky but all-important moving-related tasks, and a few years later in 2009, he founded a company to do just that.

The Secret Sauce: Customer Experience & Talent

Gabe’s vision for Move Concierge (formerly Utility Concierge) has always been about delivering mind-blowing experiences for everyone we work with — from clients to partners alike. The average American moves about 12 times in their life, and Gabe knew he could make those moves easier. By bringing together the right talent with a focus on customer experience, he set out to transform the industry landscape for movers as well as for the real estate professionals who support them. Move Concierge’s dedicated and talented team brings his vision to life each day to “Set up Your Home Services in a Snap”.  

Personal Side: A Man on the Move

Gabe isn’t one to sit still. Whether it’s traveling with his family or pushing his business to new heights, he’s always looking for the next adventure. It was actually a family trip to Italy last year that sparked a whole new vision for Move Concierge.

During that trip, Gabe read the book “10x is Easier Than 2x”, by strategic coach Dan Sullivan and organizational psychologist Dr. Benjamin Hardy. He was struck by their ideas about establishing “breakthrough goals” instead of incremental ones, and it elevated his perspective. Sometimes we all we feel threatened by challenges, limiting our sense of what’s possible. But when we can imagine our way beyond those limitations, we envision futures we might not have even considered before. This in turn allows us to strategize how to achieve them, and commit to big ideas that no longer seem so impossible. Gabe took the 10x mindset to heart and it unlocked his imagination yet again.

Returning from his trip, he realized he was ready for that next big leap. With only a fraction of moving households currently using their services, he saw potential for massive growth. Reimagining Move Concierge’s mission to help movers nationwide, Gabe sharpened his aim to define a new standard in the home service setup landscape. He started making bold moves for the business: a new name and rebrand to reflect the broader vision, an expanded leadership team, new priorities around lead diversification, and a vision to build advanced technology solutions and new product offerings.

The Personal Side

Gabe’s wife Veronica, kids Andrew and Renee, and their Boykin Spaniel, Bruno, are at the heart of everything he does.

When he’s not revolutionizing the moving industry, you might find him spending time with his family and seeking new adventures together. He also enjoys golfing, hunting and snow skiing.

What’s Next?

Gabe’s new strategy is on the move and ready to transform your moving experience with one simple, stress-free call.

So next time you’re facing a move, think of Gabe and the stellar team at Move Concierge. We’re here for more than just setting up your home services — we’re in the business of delivering transformative, mind-blowing experiences. And who couldn’t use more of that?

Inflation edges up slightly, but not enough to cause major concerns

Posted by & filed under Executive Insights.

Inflation ticked up in October, but in line with forecasts. And that means a December rate cut by the Federal Reserve could still be in the offing.

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased 0.2% in October, the same increase as the previous three months, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The price of all goods increased 2.6% year over year.

“Both headline CPI and core CPI were right in line with forecasts, potentially supporting an additional 25-basis point federal funds rate cut in December, barring any upside surprises in November payrolls data,” said Sam Williamson, First American’s senior economist, in a statement.

The index for shelter rose 0.4% in October, accounting for over half of the monthly all items increase. The food index also increased over the month, rising 0.2% as the food at home index increased 0.1% and the food away from home index rose 0.2%. The energy index was unchanged over the month, after declining 1.9% in September.

Americans are still feeling the pinch of inflation, but not nearly as much as a year ago, said Gabe Abshire, CEO of Move Concierge, in a statement. With the rate cuts and inflation taming, next year could still be a busy homebuying year.

“As we move into the holiday spending season, we anticipate strong retail sales and a slow winter home buying season,” Abshire said. “However, with an additional interest rate cut expected, more and more people will be looking to move in the first quarter of 2025.”

Read the Scotsman Guide article.

Will October’s inflation increase slow the pace of interest rate cuts?

Posted by & filed under Executive Insights.

Inflation increased to 2.6% in October, rising modestly from the previous month, according to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

In October, inflation was above the annual inflation rate of 2.4% in September, and it increased 0.2% on a monthly basis, according to BLS. The cost of housing was the most significant contributor to the monthly increase in October, accounting for over half of the rise of the monthly all-items index. The price of food also increased by 0.2% in October. Energy prices remained unchanged after dropping 1.9% in the previous months. These lower prices are helping to bring down the overall cost of goods and services, offsetting increases in other parts of the economy.

If the pace of price increases continues to mount, it may influence the Federal Reserve’s pace of interest rate cuts. Last week, the Fed announced a highly anticipated quarter of a percentage point cut, lowering interest rates to between 4.5% and 4.75%. However, inflation has moderated substantially over the last two years, from a peak of 7% to 2.6%. Fed Chair Jerome Powell said the Fed remains committed to maintaining the U.S. economy’s strength by supporting maximum employment and returning inflation to its 2% goal. 

“Markets have dialed back expectations for another cut and are currently pricing in somewhat lower ~60% odds of that outcome,” Realtor.com Chief Economist Danielle Hale said. “The November jobs report, due out in early December, is likely to be an important input in that decision alongside the latest inflation reading.”

For now, moderate inflation and the Fed’s dialing back of interest rates are likely to give consumers space to spend as the holiday season approaches, according to Gabe Abshire, CEO of Move Concierge. 

“The average American consumer is still feeling the pinch of inflation, but not to the same extent as last year when it greatly hampered monthly household spending,” Abshire said. “As we move into the holiday spending season, we anticipate strong retail sales and a slow winter homebuying season.”

Read the full article Fox Business article.

Move Concierge Announces Partnership with Real Estate Brokerage Platform Side

Posted by & filed under Press Releases.

Dallas; Oct. 8, 2024—Move Concierge, a revolutionary service that connects utilities and home services for new homebuyers, has announced a key partnership with Side, the only real estate brokerage platform that helps top agents create and grow their own boutique companies. 

Through this partnership, real estate agents who work with Side will have access to Move Concierge services through Side Marketplace, enabling them to assist homebuyers by offering services that can make their move seamless and stress-free. 

Through Move Concierge, the agents on Side’s platform 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, showing that they are willing to go the extra mile for clients to ensure that their transition to a new home is a smooth one.

“In today’s changing market, agents need more than traditional tools – they need services that add real value,” said Move Concierge Chief Revenue Officer Sajag Patel. “Our partnership with Side lets agents offer seamless home set-up, deepening client relationships while they focus on selling homes.”

“At Side, our No. 1 priority is to support our agents by providing them with all the tools they need to succeed in a competitive marketplace,” said Side Co-Founder Edward Wu. “This partnership with Move Concierge is an excellent example of the services we provide our agents to help them grow their businesses.”

“Move Concierge and Side are both dedicated to elevating the client experience and empowering extraordinary real estate professionals to offer greater value,” added Move Concierge President Jason Lindwall. 

Established in 2009, Utility Concierge pioneered the connection services industry by being the first to offer new movers a comprehensive suite of essential services as they set up their home. To facilitate this, Move Concierge partners with real estate professionals nationwide and empowers them to go above and beyond for their clients by making their move as stress-free as possible. Through Move Concierge, agents can provide clients with one point of contact to set up all of their home services – saving them time, money and stress.

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.

About Side

Side is the industry’s only real estate brokerage platform, empowering the very best agents, teams and indie brokers to create and grow their own companies — without the time, cost or risk of operating a brokerage. Unlike consumer-facing brokerage brands, Side works behind the scenes to provide our partners with time-saving technology and premier support services. This way, they’re free to focus on what matters most: serving their clients and communities. The company is headquartered in San Francisco.

Contact: 

Jacob Gaffney
jacob@gaffneyaustin.com
817.471.7627

PODS® and Move Concierge Partner to Provide Customers a More Convenient Moving Experience

Posted by & filed under Press Releases.

— Partnership will offer Move Concierge customers access to PODS’ moving and storage solutions, including special discounts —

CLEARWATER, Fla. (July 13, 2022) – PODS Enterprises, LLC, the industry leader in portable moving and storage solutions, and Move Concierge, a service that helps movers easily schedule and set up utilities in their new home, are pleased to announce a nationwide partnership. This new partnership will connect Move Concierge customers to PODS’ moving and storage solutions and special discounts.

Move Concierge provides customers with a personal concierge who identifies the best options for home services, including internet, satellite and cable TV, home security, and city utilities and electricity. Move Concierge then schedules installations so customers can focus on other parts of their move. While Move Concierge covers getting customers settled with their new home services, PODS can expertly assist with their moving and storage needs. Both companies work to provide a great moving experience and a sense of control in what often feels like an uncontrollable situation.

“The partnership between PODS and Move Concierge is an exciting way to connect Move Concierge customers with PODS’ various moving and storage solutions,” said Irfan Bojadzija, Vice President, Partnerships. “As Move Concierge’s customers begin their search for a reliable moving service, Move Concierge points them to us for assistance. We want to be a resource to help streamline and support their customers’ needs during a move. From start to finish, PODS and Move Concierge, together, can provide a greater level of convenience and flexibility during the relocation process.”

Movier Concierge customers across the country receive a 10% discount from PODS on initial delivery, first month’s rent, and long-distance transportation. Together, PODS and Move Concierge offer their customers a comprehensive moving experience. 

“It’s exciting to partner with another innovative company that is making moving easier,” said Jeff Brown, Marketing Director for Move Concierge. “We both share the goal of elevating each client’s moving experience.”

About PODS Enterprises, LLC
A moving and storage leader for nearly 25 years, PODS offers flexible, personalized solutions tailored to our customers’ unique needs. When PODS pioneered portable storage in 1998, we introduced the world to a new way of thinking about moving and storage, with unlimited time, control, and flexibility. Today, PODS provides residential and commercial moving and storage services in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and the UK. The PODS network has completed more than 1.4 million long-distance moves and over 6 million initial deliveries. Whether it is a long-distance or international relocation, across-town move, or renovation project, PODS provides customers with a personal moving and storage team ready for any situation. To learn more, visit PODS.com.

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 at providing a mind-blowing client experience. Move Concierge is one of the fastest growing companies in the U.S., ranking #63 for Inc. Magazine’s list of fastest growing companies in the Southwest.

Contacts:

Trent Brock
PODS Enterprises, LLC
pressrequest@pods.com

Jeff Brown
Move Concierge
jeff.brown@moveconcierge.com

Halloween Homeowner Safety Tips

Posted by & filed under Homeowner Tips.

Safety is a hot topic around Halloween with tips like checking your child’s candy for signs of tampering and adding a glow stick to their costume to make sure they can be seen. 

Unfortunately, trick-or-treaters aren’t the only ones out and about on Halloween night. Criminals too take advantage of the opportunity to freely roam neighborhood streets looking for their own treats – easy targets. 

Property crime rates spike by an average of 24 percent each Halloween, according to a study by Travelers Insurance. The majority of insurance claims were for theft, with 60 percent occurring at the home and 21 percent offsite, the remaining 19 percent of claims are for vandalism. 

Keep your home safe from vandalism and theft this Halloween. Taking just a few precautions will make your home less appealing to criminals looking for an easy score. 

Halloween Homeowner Safety Tip 1: Keep the exterior lights on

Keep the lights on

Take advantage of human nature to protect your home. People are far less likely to commit a crime if they can easily be seen doing so. Keep the exterior of your home well lit to eliminate the opportunity for anyone to sneak around. 

Pay special attention to lighting around the front and back doors, and any other access points or areas people shouldn’t be lurking. Motion-sensitive lights are great for these spots if you don’t want to keep lights on all night.

Halloween Homeowner Safety Tip 1: Install a Security System

Install a Security System 

The mere presence of a security system can be enough to deter a criminal from choosing your home. Most burglars take alarms and outdoor cameras into account when choosing a potential target. According to a survey of hundreds of inmates convicted of burglary, 83 percent said they would try to determine if an alarm was present before attempting a burglary. 

If it’s not seen beforehand, a security system can stop a crime in progress if your house is broken into. Half of offenders surveyed said they would discontinue the attempt if they discovered an alarm while attempting a burglary. 

Halloween Homeowner Safety Tip 1: Use Smart Security Cameras

Use smart cameras to detect lurkers

The latest in smart home technology takes security to the next level. New outdoor cameras use AI to determine and deter threats. These smart cameras can differentiate between people and animals, only alerting you when an actual threat is detected. 

If someone is snooping around your home, the AI will recognize them as a lurker. If they are in camera view for too long, the camera will beep alerting the criminal they are being watched. Two-way voice also lets you communicate with the individual to ask what they want or scare them away. 

Advanced night-vision technology means your security cameras have a clear picture and your home is protected all night long., even on Halloween. 

Speak with a security expert to learn more about protecting your home with the latest smart home technology.

3 Best Fall Home Improvement Projects

Posted by & filed under Homeowner Tips.

Fall is the favorite season of many Americans. In addition to the treats and traditions we look forward to each year, autumn offers the perfect temperatures to spend time outdoors. Time you can spend investing in and improving your home. 

The weather is generally mild in the fall. It can be cloudy, but there isn’t usually a lot of rain. Temperatures cool down and stay more consistent without fluctuating heavily from day to night.  the perfect weather to tackle these home improvement projects. 

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Where to Update Your Address After You Move

Posted by & filed under Homeowner Tips.

We know there’s a lot on your plate right after a move. While some things like giving your garage a face-lift can wait, others like updating your address with key companies and agencies needs to be done quickly.

Memorize your new address by changing it with these government agencies and service providers.  

The Postal Service

The first place you’ll want to change your address is with the USPS®. You can do this in person at any post office or via the Official USPS Change-of-Address web page. There is a $1.05 fee, but the good news is it’s the only update that will cost you. 

IRS

It’s no surprise the IRS wants to keep up with your current address. Download and print Form 8822 from the IRS website. Page 2 of the form includes a “Where To File” section with the IRS address to send the completed form based on the state of your previous address. 

Department of Motor Vehicles

Updating your driver’s license and vehicle registration are legally required after your move. Timeframes and fees vary by state, so be sure to look up the rules where you live. In most states you can skip the trip to the DMV and update your address online.

Social Security Administration

If you receive Social Security or Medicare benefits, log in to your Social Security account to update your address online. 

Voter Registration

Be sure you can cast your vote at your new polling location come election time. Each state makes its own voting rules, including how to update your voter registration. Visit the Election Assistance Commission site to find voter registration information by state. 

Financial Services

You want to update your address everywhere you manage money like banks, investment services, credit card companies and loan issuers. Don’t forget to update payment services like Venmo and PayPal.

Insurance Providers

Update your billing address with health, dental, and life insurance providers to keep your coverage up-to-date. Don’t forget to update the address for your car insurance too. 

Employer

You want to make sure your address is up to date with any company that pays you! Plus updating your contact information will keep you in HR’s good graces.

Medical and Professional Service Providers

Doctors, dentists, veterinarians and lawyers will need an updated billing address on file to avoid any payment issues. 

Online Retailers and Subscription Boxes

You don’t want to miss a package or a recurring payment. Update your mailing and billing address with online retailers and subscriptions.  

Streaming Services

Speaking of recurring payments, you’ll want to update your address with any streaming services you use like Netflix or Hulu. 

Apps

You’ll want to update your address on any app that stores a default home address including map, ride sharing and food/grocery delivery apps to make sure you and your dinner arrive at the right place. 

Create Your Own Checklist

Everyone is a little different, so this is not a comprehensive list. Personalize your change-of-address checklist list by adding other service providers, organizations and agencies that contact you via email or need an accurate billing address on file.

Don’t forget to send your new address to your friends and family too!

Need Moving Help? Here Are 5 Moving Tips Every Mover Should Know.

Posted by & filed under Moving Tips.

Need Moving Help? Here Are 5 Moving Tips Every Mover Should Know.

Anyone that’s been through the moving process knows just how rough it can be. Whether you’re moving to a neighboring city or a completely different state, moving is filled with tasks that would give the Mission Impossible movies a run for their money. With our list of moving tips and a good attitude, moving will be easier than ever!

Moving Hack #1: Set a Budget

Moving can be expensive, especially when you don’t set a budget. By planning ahead with a detailed budget, you can save hundreds if not thousands of dollars and a whole lot of time. Creating a budget is pretty simple. You can use Excel, Google Sheets, or even just a notebook if you’re old school. A moving budget will help you know what to expect with the upcoming process. Here are some things you should consider including in your budget:

  • Packing tape
  • Moving boxes
  • Professional movers
  • Gas
  • Packing materials (bubble wrap, packing paper, etc.)
  • Hotel expenses
  • Food

Every moving budget will differ by case. Be sure to think hard about what your move will look like. Here a few extra things that are smart to budget for if you can afford it. 

All in all, setting a budget for your move is a must if you want to limit the stress and hassle that typically comes with moving.

Moving Hack #2: Eat Up!

We think it’s pretty safe to say that this hack is a tad bit more enjoyable than the previous one. What other moving help blog is encouraging you to eat more? This one is pretty straight to the point. You’ve got plenty of things to pack without having to raid your pantry and worrying about keeping your perishables nice and cool. A helpful moving hack is to try to eat all of the food you have stored up so that you don’t have to worry about packing and transporting it. 

Set a goal that next time you need to go to the store you’ll take your groceries to your new home. If you come across food items you don’t think you’ll use, consider donating them to a local food bank or shelter. 

Moving Hack #3: Purge Your Closets and Attics

If you’ve been in your current home for a while, chances are you’ve got a lot of stuff piled up in your attic and closets. Before it’s time to start packing up your belongings, go through the items in your closet and attic and identify anything that won’t be making the move. Once you’ve done that, set them aside and determine what you want to try to sell and what you will donate. By removing these items from your home, you’re freeing up space that will be valuable during the moving process. If you’ve ever moved before, you know things can pile up and get messy rather quickly!

Moving Hack #4: Get Quotes From Multiple Moving Companies 

Whether you’re moving to a different city or a new state, moving companies make the entire process much more manageable. That being said, you have to be willing to do the research to get a good deal. Here are a few things to look out for when choosing a moving company.

  • Uninsured movers: While giving a few of your buddies 50 bucks each to move things into a uhaul truck and drive it to your new home may be cheaper, it’s not going to give you the protection you want.
  • Overpricing: Make sure you call at least three different moving companies in your area to get an idea of what a fair price is. If their prices are similar, call a few other options and take a closer look at reviews written by their previous customers. To get a better idea of what a move should cost, check out our blog on this topic here. 

Moving Hack #5: Get Creative With Your Packing.

Let’s talk about moving and storage. Want to save money and a little bit of hassle? Then get creative! Pack your things into your other things. Don’t unpack your drawers. Leave your belongings inside and secure them shut. To make transport a little easier, take drawers out, then move them to the truck individually and put them back in. You’ll also avoid throwing your back out if you’re moving yourself. Here are some things that you probably already own that can be used in place of moving boxes:

  • Dressers
  • Coolers
  • Suitcases
  • Laundry baskets

Now that you know these hacks, you’re  on your way to an easier, less stressful transition to your new home. Need more moving help? Check out our Step-by-Step Moving Checklist for more tips.

Why Air Filter Subscriptions Are a Must for Homeowners!

Posted by & filed under Homeowner Tips.

Why Air Filter Subscriptions Are a Must for Homeowners!

When was the last time you changed your home’s air filters? If you have to think about it, it’s probably been too long. Regularly replacing your home’s air filters is a crucial step to maintaining personal health as well as the health of your home’s HVAC system. Let’s be honest. It’s hard to remember to do something you only need to do a few times a year. That’s why subscribing to an air filter subscription service, like Second Nature, is a must for homeowners. Let’s dive into some of the benefits of having filters sent right to your door when it’s time for a change by subscribing to an air filter subscription service that gives you access to the best air filter for home use.  

First, Let’s Start With Why

Replacing your air filters is crucial to ensuring a healthy home. Cooking, cleaning, and even just moving around your home or interacting with your pets can release tiny pollutant particles into the air. By replacing your filters on time, you’re maximizing the air quality within your home. 

You may think that because you keep your home nice and clean, your air quality must be clean as well. Unfortunately that’s not the case. Your home’s HVAC system and air filters will collect pollutants like skin cells, pet dander, and even hazardous particles from household cleaning products, hair products, and nail polish. They build up faster than you think and replacing your air filter is a great way to ensure your family is breathing clean air. 

Save Time

Like any other subscription service out there, Second Nature filters will save you time and money. How? Let us paint you a picture. It’s Sunday afternoon, and you’ve decided that after 12 months, it’s time to change your air filters. You get in your car, head over to your local hardware store, and walk to the air filter aisle only to have no idea what sizes you need. Now you have to go back to your car, drive home, measure your filters, then drive back to the hardware store and back home. Before you know it, you’ve spent three hours on a task that really shouldn’t take more than a few minutes! With Second Nature, you get the best air filter for home use delivered automatically when it’s time to replace them, and you only have to  the size you need once!

Save Money

Over time air filters build up dust and become clogged. When your filters become clogged, your HVAC system is at serious risk of damage from overheating. Over time, your HVAC system can become clogged from a combination of moisture and dust that air filters can prevent. To avoid costly repairs to your heating and cooling system, replace your air filters on time. 

How Often?

Changing your air filters will depend on various factors like the number of pets you have, activity level, and more. You can choose to get your second nature filters shipped on a custom schedule to make sure you’re breathing the best air. We recommend changing your filters every three months or every two months if you have a pet. If you have more than one furry pet, replace your air filters every 30 days. With timed delivery, new filters show up at your door right when it’s time to change them. Keeping your home’s air quality healthy and your HVAC system running optimally.

Options

One of the great things about choosing Second Nature filters is their wide variety of inventory. Second Nature has a filter for every size and shape, making them one of the best air filter subscription services available. What’s even better is their pricing options. They categorize their filters by how much they can trap.Let’s take a look.

  • “Catch Some” 
    • Second Nature’s “Catch Some” air filters are great for those wanting to catch some of the bigger annoyances like dust and pollen. 
  • “Catch More”
    • The “Catch more” Filters take filtration to another level by catching pet dander, dust, and mold.
  • “Catch All’
    • The “Catch All Filter” is ideal for those wanting to catch all of the particles they can, including cooking oil and cigarette smoke. And you guessed it! The “Catch-All” filter will keep your air the cleanest!

The options don’t stop there. You can protect your drinking water supply with Second Nature’s fridge filters. They have two different filter options that focus on taste, odor, and contaminants. There is an overwhelming amount of fridge filter options. Second Nature’s filter buying guide makes it a simple process. Now that you know how to keep your HVAC system running smoothly, check out other ways you can optimize your home here! 

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