9 quick secrets our experts swear by

By Jason Lindwall, President of Move Concierge

Moving can be overwhelming, which is why home service companies such as Move Concierge are in such high demand. When it comes to moving, we are experts. We’ve got hacks that extend beyond the typical advice — such as labeling boxes or packing room by room. Here are some underrated tips that seasoned Move Concierge partners swear by.

1. Color-Code Instead of Just Labeling

Labeling boxes is a given, but color-coding adds a visual shortcut that can save time and confusion. Assign a color to each room (e.g., blue for kitchen, green for bedroom), and put colored tape or stickers on each box. On moving day, a quick glance tells movers where each box belongs without needing to read every label. And don’t forget to color-code the top and a side of the box to make it easier to identify stacked boxes.

2. Photograph Your Electronics Setup

Before you disconnect your TV, Wi-Fi router, or computer setup, take a photo of the cable configurations. This helps immensely when you’re trying to remember which plugs go where, especially if you’re not tech-savvy or had your entertainment system installed by a professional.

3. Pack an ‘Open-First’ Box — and Label It Loudly

Most people remember to pack an overnight bag with essentials, but a clearly marked “Open-First” box with things like scissors, trash bags, toilet paper, paper towels, chargers, snacks, and a basic toolkit can be a lifesaver during those chaotic first 24 hours.

4. Secure Dresser Drawers Instead of Emptying Them

For lightweight items like clothing or linens, leave them in their drawers and secure the entire drawer with plastic wrap or moving tape. This saves packing time and reduces the number of boxes. Just be sure the furniture is sturdy enough to handle the move this way!

5. Use Soft Items as Packing Material

Instead of wasting money on bubble wrap, use towels, socks, and clothing to pad fragile items. It’s eco-friendly and maximizes every inch of your packing space.

6. Take Measurements Before Moving

Many people forget to measure doorways, elevators, and staircases in both locations. Your oversized sofa might fit into your old living room, but not through your new apartment’s stairwell. If you are relocating to a distant location, consider asking your real estate agent to handle this for you.

7. Create a Digital Moving Folder

Keep digital copies of lease agreements, moving company contracts, utility setup confirmations, and receipts in a single cloud-based folder (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox). If you need something on moving day, you won’t be rummaging through boxes looking for paperwork.

8. Pack Your Closet Like a Pro

Instead of removing clothes from hangers, use a large garbage bag to group and wrap sections of your closet. Just tie the bag around the hangers — unpacking becomes as simple as hanging the bundles back up.

9. Schedule Utilities Early — and Double-Confirm

Waiting until the last minute to set up water, power, or internet can leave you without essential services. Schedule everything well in advance, and confirm at least a few days before your move to avoid any surprises. Or, make life even easier and connect with Move Concierge to handle the set-up of necessities like cable and utilities. Your personal concierge will present you with the best possible options at the best possible prices, and they’ll oversee the process through to completion, allowing you to focus on setting up your new home.

With these lesser-known moving hacks, you can reduce stress, save time, and start enjoying your new space sooner.

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.

Unlike many other pests, spiders don’t become less active in the winter. In fact, many property owners start to notice spiders in their homes more and more during colder months. But how is this possible for such small, cold-blooded creatures? By learning how spiders survive the winter, you’ll learn why they can be a big problem for you during this time of the year.

With more than 270 streaming services on the market, many homeowners are tempted to cut the cord for good and ditch their traditional cable or satellite TV services. But what’s the better deal? Is going all-in on streaming cheaper? Does it offer the same content?

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology statistics, nearly 62% of American households have pets, including over 1.5 million cats and dogs. With more than 50 million Americans experiencing various allergies annually, many people may suffer from pet allergies. Symptoms of pet allergies include wheezing and sneezing, a stuffy nose and runny eyes, itchy throat, and nasal congestion of varying degrees from mild to severe.

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. 

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.

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. 

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.

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. 

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.

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! 

New Home Checklist 

Buying a new home is an exciting and frustrating process. It’s easy to get lost in the joy of closing that new home deal. We’ve compiled a list that will help you identify what to know and prepare for with your new home, allowing you to enjoy that new home high without forgetting to prepare yourself for any mishaps down the road. Let’s dive in! 

Locate circuit breakers 

Circuit breakers play a more important role than people realize. How do circuit breakers work? To put it simply, they cut power to your appliances when there’s too much current flowing through them. Without circuit breakers, homes across the country would experience regular electrical issues. We’re talking about fire-level electrical issues. So, yeah, they’re important. In the case that your circuit breaker has to step in and save your home, you’ll need to know where they are located to bring power back to your appliances. After you locate your circuit breaker, or breakers if your home has more than one, we suggest writing down the location or creating a map that clearly labels where you can find them. After you’ve done that, consider using a magnet and placing it on your fridge. Pro tip: make sure the areas in front of and below your circuit breaker are free of clutter and easily accessible. It’s also a good idea to label your circuit breaker. If your breaker box doesn’t have a space for labels, you can use duct tape and a sharpie to mark which switch connects to which room.

Know where your GFCI outlets are and how they work

Think of CFCI outlets as mini circuit breakers. Osha describes a GFCI, or ground-fault circuit interrupter, as “a fast-acting circuit breaker designed to shut off electric power within as little as 1/40 of a second. It works by comparing the amount of current going to and returning from equipment along the circuit conductors. When the amount going differs from the amount returning by approximately five milliamperes, the GFCI interrupts the current.” So when you’re drying your hair and you draw a little too much electricity, your GFCI outlet steps in and saves the day before any damage is done. Here are some places you’re likely to find GFCI outlets:

• The exterior of your home
• Bathrooms
• Garage
• Kitchen

Over the years, new regulations have required more and more GFCI electrical outlets within new homes. So don’t be alarmed if your new home has more or less than your previous home. GFCI outlets are a simple install for most electricians if you’re interested in adding them to your home. If you want to ensure your home is safe, try to use your GFCI outlets over your non GFCI outlets.

Locate gas and water valves

Locating your water and gas shut-off valves is another critical step to take after closing on your new home. In fact, every member of your household should know where these shut-off valves are. In the event of a busted gas or water pipe, every second wasted locating the shut-off valves could mean thousands of dollars more in damage. Consider creating a map similar to the one you make for your circuit breaker. Store them in the same spot to ensure no extra time is wasted in the event of an emergency. 

Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors 

It’s always a good idea to replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your new home. After that, make sure you replace the smoke detector batteries yearly and the carbon monoxide detector batteries every 6 months, as suggested by FEMA. We recommend setting aside a stash of batteries to be used only for these devices.

Identify your storm shelter and plan

Everywhere in the United States experiences some form of bad weather. Make sure you have identified a shelter in the case of high winds or a tornado. Try to keep the area clutter-free and easily accessible. Here are some items you can store in your shelter location for safety:

• Food
• Water
• Radio
• Flashlights
• Dry clothes
• Pet food & leashes

You likely never need to use these items, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Be sure to research the climate in your new area and tailor your shelter and supplies storage to cover any form of bad weather or natural disasters that you could realistically expect.

Create a seasonal home maintenance checklist 

Creating a home maintenance checklist is crucial! Regular maintenance will keep your home in good shape and help maintain value. Don’t slouch on completing seasonal maintenance like cleaning the gutters, landscaping, and pool maintenance. Also, don’t forget to winterize your home when the time comes. Covering up faucets and sealing window and door cracks are just two ways you can prepare your home for the cold weather. Take care of your home, and your home will take care of you!

Make a list of home improvement projects

After you’ve tackled everything on this checklist, you’re ready for a new project! Take a walk around your home and make a list of home improvement projects you want to do like replacing countertops or flooring. Prioritize them by need and doability to figure out which projects you need to budget for first. 

More Moving Help

Now that you know what to look out for, it’s time to download your checklist, which you can find here! If you found this blog to be helpful, check out our garage transformation blog here!