If you're one of the millions of employees working from home, it's important to create a dedicated space for your work activities. A dedicated workspace helps you increase your productivity and creates a distinction between your home and work life. Our real estate agents suggest adding these features to make working from home even easier. 

• An Ergonomic Chair
  Many workers experience back and neck pain related to poor posture during their workday. Keeping your body in a neutral position (feet on the floor, arms relaxed by your body, back straight, and head centered above your shoulders) reduces the amount of strain that sitting has on your body. An ergonomic chair encourages your body to maintain a neutral position, allowing you to be more comfortable, focused, and productive. Look for a chair with customizable features and a sufficient lumbar cushion to ensure your body has the support it needs. 

• A WiFi Booster
  Few things are more frustrating than sitting down to begin your day, only to discover that your WiFi is running at a snail's pace or even refusing to connect entirely. A WiFi booster eliminates connectivity deserts in your home and makes it possible for multiple devices to use your WiFi with minimal buffering. 

• A Task Light
  A home office needs multiple levels of lighting to ensure that you have proper illumination to reduce eye strain. In addition to an overhead light, you should invest in a task light. A task light makes it easy to adjust the placement of the light so that it's suited to your work activity. Look for a task light with an adjustable arm and multiple dimming levels so you can customize the type and placement of the lighting. 

• A Desk That You Love
  Your desk is one of the most important elements of your home office space. Since you'll be spending a lot of time at your desk, you must select a design and style that fits your stylistic preferences and work habits. For example, if you need a space for using a computer and completing paperwork, a desk with an L-shape may be a good fit for your needs. Or, if you know that you like to stand for a portion of your workday, a desk that allows you to sit or stand while you work is a smart investment. 

• A Bin or Basket to Store Your Work Supplies
  When you're through working, you need a spot to stow your work supplies. This will keep your office space uncluttered and tidy, and it ensures that you always know where all your necessities are. A large woven basket is one stylish alternative, or you can invest in a utility cart to quickly stash your work essentials. If you ever need to relocate for part of your workday, having everything in a single location makes it quick and convenient for you to do so. 

• A Houseplant
  Your workspace should be a spot that you find inviting and welcoming; adding plants to your office instantly makes the area feel brighter and more appealing. Houseplants also purify the air inside of your home, removing odors and potentially harmful chemicals. As you select your houseplant, make sure its lighting needs are compatible with the light in your home office. 

• A Camera Cover
  A camera cover is a convenient addition to your computer or mobile device that prevents your camera from catching portions of your day that you don't want to share with clients or other coworkers. Camera covers attach to your device or computer and slide as needed to conceal your camera. 

• A Charging Station
  If you depend on a lot of devices during your workday, it needs to be easy to keep your devices charged. A charging station lets you charge multiple devices and accessories using a single unit; you can even customize the charging cords so that you have the best combo for your work devices. 

• A Planner
  Whether you prefer an old-fashioned paper planner or like to utilize a digital alternative, a planner is valuable for organizing your workday, keeping track of deadlines, and monitoring your to-do list. If you decide to use a paper planner, make sure that you have a stash of ink pens or pencils readily available for quick schedule changes. 

• Noise-Canceling Headphones
  When you're on a work call or just need to drown out background noise, noise-canceling headphones are a must-have item. Look for a fast-charging pair with a long battery life. 

• A Larger Monitor (or a Second Monitor)
  Increasing the size of your computer screen is an effective way to boost your productivity. Or, depending on your job, you may prefer to add a second monitor so that you have a dedicated screen for certain tasks. If you conduct your work business from a laptop, there are also dual monitor options that are laptop compatible. 

Need a home with more space for your remote work days? Contact us to start your search!

Did you know that more people chose to move to Maine from out of state than any other state in the country in 2021? According to a study highlighted by REALTOR® Magazine, Maine was the top state for inbound moves last year. New residents are flocking to Maine for its family-friendly nature, diverse real estate options, endless outdoor attractions, great communities, and so much more. Our real estate agents have all of the details on what makes Maine such a popular choice for inbound moves and why you'll love living here, too.

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Moving is never an easy feat, but it becomes significantly more complicated when a collection is involved. Whether it's made up of stamps, action figures, or rare books, your collection is important to you, and so is getting it safely into your new home. From prep work to moving day, this list of tips from our real estate agents covers everything you need to know to successfully move your beloved treasures.  

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With our identities and lifestyles closely tied to our hometowns, it creates one of our strongest relationships. If you're moving to a new city, will you be able to forge another bond that fits your wants and needs? Use these valuable tips from our real estate agents to determine if you and your new city are a match.

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As the rise in entrepreneurship and freelancing has redefined the concept of work, many people are moving away from traditional offices. Working from home has been a popular choice, but the line between personal and professional often becomes blurred, leading to frustration and burnout.

Coworking spaces, where you share facilities on a neutral site with people from other companies, provide a cost-effective and flexible solution. Are coworking spaces the answer for you? Our real estate agents share seven things to consider when making your decision.

Start Searching for a New England Coworking Space

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It's no secret that moving can be stressful! When you're packing up your entire life and relocating across the country, it's important to make sure you're prepared. Spending some time planning your move will help ensure everything goes off without a hitch. 

Not sure where to start? You're in luck! Our real estate agents often work with clients from out of state and have created a helpful guide to help with planning cross-country moves. Here are a few of the most important tips. 

Cross-Country Moving Tips

• Start by Decluttering
  There's no sense paying someone to move stuff you don't really want or need. You'll save yourself money if you declutter before you move. Even better, you may be able to make some extra money by having a yard sale, working with a consignment store, or selling items online. You can also donate gently-used items to local nonprofits.

• Ask for Help
  There's nothing worse than trying to handle a cross-country move by yourself. Don't hesitate to ask for help with certain tasks. Even school-age kids can pack up boxes of non-essentials if they're shown the proper way to do it. There's also nothing wrong with asking family and friends to come over and lend you a hand. 

• Book Travel Arrangements Early
  You don't want to scramble to figure out your travel arrangements at the last minute. Having the right airline and hotel reservations can make or break your move, so make sure you spend some time doing your research and start booking your reservations at least a month in advance. 

• Get Quotes from Multiple Movers
  A cross-country move can be expensive, so it pays to get estimates from at least three or four different moving companies before making your final decision. Make sure each company you're considering is licensed and insured. Be careful not to make your decision solely on price. It's also important to consider their anticipated delivery time, the services included, and whether you feel comfortable with the company's reputation. Many of the best moving companies book up quickly, so it's important to get started on this as soon as possible. 

• Take Photos or Videos of Your Items
  When packing up valuable items, it's a great idea to take photos or videos to document their condition. This way, if they arrive damaged, you'll be able to easily show proof to the moving company. 

• Get the Driver's Contact Number
  When you're moving cross-country, you can sometimes wait a week or longer for your items to arrive. Getting a contact number for the driver can help give you some extra peace of mind. 

• Consider Moving Insurance
  Most moving companies offer a free moving policy, but these typically only cover the bare minimum. When booking your move, consider whether you need Full Value Protection. This will hold the mover accountable for covering the actual cash value of your items. You'll also have to weigh the pros and cons of choosing a policy from your mover versus getting one from a third-party insurance company. 

• Bring Valuables and Important Paperwork
  Make sure to protect your valuables and important paperwork by keeping them with you instead of sending them with the movers. Some of the items you'll want to keep with you include jewelry, heirlooms, your birth certificate, and your marriage license. 

• Pack a Bag of Essentials
  As you're packing up your belongings, make sure to keep a separate bag or a suitcase for your essentials. This should include everything you need for moving day and the first few days after you arrive. Make sure you have at least a few changes of clothing, all your necessary toiletries, medications, and items like towels, toilet paper, paper towels, trash bags, pet food, child necessities. 

• Examine Your Items Carefully
  When the movers arrive with your items, make sure you inspect them thoroughly. This is particularly important for large items, like furniture and anything valuable. If you notice any damage, take photos and contact the movers right away. 

• Update Your Information
  Thanks to modern technology, it's now super easy to change your address. You can just visit USPS.com and select the date you want the post office to start forwarding your mail. You'll also need to change your address with your bank and credit card companies and change over your new utilities. 

• Get a New Driver's License
  If you're living in a new state, you'll need to get a new driver's license. To do this, make an appointment at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and bring all the necessary paperwork so they can issue you a new license. 

• Explore Your Neighborhood
  Now that all the hard stuff is done, it's time to settle into your new home and get comfortable in your new neighborhood. This means getting outside and saying hello to your new neighbors. This is also a good time to start exploring local parks, restaurants, and retail shops. You may also want to check out your local Nextdoor.com group. 

Are you planning to relocate soon? Our agents would love to help you find your dream home! Contact us today. 

When you move, you're not just getting a new house. You're getting a new community. Your new neighbors can help you with everything from showing you where the best grocery store in the area is, to loaning you a leaf blower when it's time for yard work, to calling the authorities if they notice something wrong while you're not there. They can also turn into lifelong friends. First, however, you need to meet and get to know them. Here are a few ways to do that.

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You've bought your dream house. You're ready to move in. Now comes the really stressful part: packing and moving. Remember that the key to a smooth move is good organization. Even if you're hiring professional movers to take some of the load off you, it's still wise to have a plan when you move.

Take a look at these tips and live by them as you organize and pack. You'll be glad you did.

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When it's time to move to a new home, not only do you need to ensure that the home meets your needs, but you should check that the neighborhood is right for your household. Find the right neighborhood for you and your family by keeping the following 5 things in mind during your search. 

1. Your Image of a Perfect Neighborhood
   Before you can pick a home in a new neighborhood, you need to determine what constitutes the perfect neighborhood in your eyes. Are you searching for a close-knit community where neighbors are quick to help out? Or do you prefer a neighborhood with large lots and lots of privacy? Make a list of the traits you value, and keep these details in mind when working with our real estate agents. 

2. The Neighborhood's Transportation Options
   Another detail to keep in mind is what kind of transportation alternatives you prefer in your new neighborhood. If you want to minimize your use of a car, you might prefer a neighborhood in the city where you can walk to shops, restaurants, and other locales. Or, a neighborhood close to a local bus stop may be a good fit for your transportation needs. Maybe you don't mind a long commute and don't expect to walk or bike on a daily basis. In this case, you can expand your search. 

3. Whether the Neighborhood has a Home Owner's Association
   When browsing prospective homes, ask if the neighborhood has an HOA. It's a matter of preference as to whether you want an HOA-governed property. Some individuals like the presence of an HOA and the standards that they set for homeowners. An HOA can strongly encourage homeowners to tend to overgrown lawns and gardens and tackle overdue home repairs. Others feel like HOAs are intrusive. They don't like to have any governing body restricting their activities.

4. The Neighborhood's Noise Levels
   As you check out the exterior of a potential home, take a few minutes to listen to the neighborhood's sounds. If you're sensitive to noise, you'll want to make sure that any sounds you hear are sounds you'll be comfortable living with. Homes in a bustling area of your city may have a lot of noise at night from crowds, nearby music venues, and traffic. Properties in family-friendly neighborhoods may have the sounds of children and families enjoying a beautiful day outside. When possible, try to visit the property when noise levels are at their highest. This will give you a better idea of how effective the property is at blocking out potential noise pollution. 

5. Whether There's a Potential for Further Neighborhood Development
   If the neighborhood is relatively young, it's possible that it might undergo further development in the coming years. New homes might be built, or new businesses may arise if the land is zoned for business usage. Additional construction isn't a bad thing (and often indicates that the neighborhood is located in an in-demand area likely to increase in value), but it can be a deterrent for some residents. After all, you might not want to live with the construction sounds! 

Ready to begin the search for your new neighborhood? Contact us today!

Our real estate agents love welcoming new residents who are relocating from another state. While every move is exciting, there's something really special about starting the next phase of your life in a completely new location. 

However, moving from one state to another also requires a bit more thought. Here are a few of the most important things to consider before taking the plunge. 

1. The Job Market
   If you haven't already secured a job in the new state you're considering, you'll want to take a close look at the current local employment opportunities. The last thing you want to do is uproot your entire life only to find that you're not able to make a living in your new home state. 

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Moving to a new home can be a huge undertaking, but it doesn't have to be stressful. Although it may seem like an impossible task, planning can help you prepare for your move and help make the process a piece of cake. Our real estate agents share some tips for streamlining the moving process.

1. Create a Timeline and To-Do List
   Think about the steps you need to take to complete your move—from beginning to end. Write down your moving date, when you'll start packing, and important details you'll need to take care of, such as hiring movers, changing your address, transferring utilities, and enrolling children in school. If you're hiring movers, it's important to contact them as early as possible to set a moving date, so you're not left in the lurch. 

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Buying a home in a different state can be a daunting task, especially if you know little about the state and the applicable local property regulations. However, with proper planning, preparation, and thorough research, you can identify your top property choices. In this guide, our REALTORS® have pieced together helpful tips for buying a home out of state. 

1. Research Area Costs
   Explore the difference between the cost of living in your state and that of your desired new city, especially if you plan to live or vacation more often in the new state. Large cities usually have different costs of living depending on the neighborhood, so check options in various parts of the city. Evaluate all potential costs of buying the home before committing. Some cost implications may include costs of upgrading the home, closing and insurance costs, and repair or replacement of various appliances. Also, call insurance providers or agencies to get estimates.
2. Ask About Property Restrictions
   Before you even travel to view your preferred homes, ask about property restrictions in your new state. For example, if you're buying a rental property, call the homeowners association to see if you're able to rent out a property in that neighborhood. If you want to install a new pool, check local and neighborhood rules to ensure it's possible before taking the time to view the property.

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Owning a home and having people live in it are two completely different things, right? If you're like most people, panic sets in when a friend suddenly decides they'll stop by in an hour…even worse…if your home for sale and you have a last-minute showing (Yay for potential buyers, though!). You are well aware that a day wouldn't be long enough to clean up the clutter scattered throughout the floors let alone a measly hour, so now what? Before you tackle what seems to be an impossible task, here are some tips that will have you on the fast track to a tidy home (even if you have to fake it).

SURPRISE! Your house needs to be picked up…NOW!

No one knows the stress to impress like home-sellers! For a surprise last-minute house showing with potential buyers (or any unexpected visitor) you just can't say "no" to, here are a few tools and tricks that will help you hide away clutter before guests knock on the door! 

• Invest in hide-away furniture! I am not talking about a hide-away bed, either! Storage ottomans are a man and women's best friend. Throw toys, blankets, etc. in there to hide clutter FAST!
  
  
• Baskets, baskets EVERYWHERE! Keep baskets on your steps and label one for each family member (including your spouse). Collect their clutter and toss the person's items in their respective baskets. Each family member needs to bring their basket up to their rooms and put the items where they belong. Move it, people!
  
  
• Speaking of baskets, baskets and bookshelves offer the perfect combo to put away small items in a hurry. Invest in pretty, coordinating baskets and use them to store (eh hem - hide) small toys, board games, remotes, Legos (ugh, the LEGOS), magazines – the list goes on. Keep things looking neat by adding colorful cubes with chalkboard labels for quick reference! This not only will look great when you are showing your home to sell but baskets with covers (or stackable containers) are easily portable when it comes to moving day!
  
  
• Behind closed doors…Armoires are great in the bedroom, but this statement piece can work as a beautiful piece of storage furniture too! You can just shove items on the shelves and CLOSE the DOORS (thank you, doors)! Keep one in the kitchen to store bowls, glasses, towels, etc. especially if cabinet space is limited. The living room is a great spot for this piece of furniture too! This large, glorified cabinet can store family games, cards, books, even extra sheets and pillows for guests. Clear, stackable bins that fit on the shelves work great for keeping things in their place and finding them quickly too!
  
  
• Hiding spot = CHECK! If you're lucky enough to have a few good closets, keep a large storage bin in each one – if there are items or a few things scattered on the floor that need a hiding spot, fast – toss them in the bin until you have time to find a home for it all. Warning! When selling your home, potential buyers peek in the closets (guilty as charged), so keep them as neat looking as you can! The neater they are, the larger they look which is a turn-on for your next homeowners!
  
  
• Keep small decorative laundry baskets in each bedroom. This will help keep clothes off the floor, hopefully, and help keep laundry separated for the designated launderer. Plus, if you are showing your home, do you really want future homeowners or renters to see your unmentionables scattered about?
  
  
• If a miracle happens and you have extra time, run the vacuum (after all, everything is finally off the floor). A quick once over on the wood floors and carpets brightens up the place!

Take a second and catch your breath. Now that you've rested (that was fast, right?), you must find some energy to really clean and organize your home - for good - at some point. Sorry to burst your bubble! Cleaning up comes with moving out. You don't want to pack up anything that will sit in storage and collect dust. 

May the odds be forever in your favor.

Before you tackle the bigger project at hand, check out the next post in our series, The Ultimate Challenge: Cleaning with Kids!

We all tend to accumulate too much "stuff," especially when we've lived in the same place for a while. If you are gearing up for a move to a newly purchased New England home, now is the perfect time to start decluttering. Why waste the time and money packing and moving things you don't need? If you aren't sure just where to start, our real estate agents have some ideas for you. Here are tips on decluttering to lighten the load before you move to your new home.

Start early, and with a plan
Decluttering usually takes longer than we expect, so if possible, start at least 6 weeks before your moving date. Make a solid plan to devote an hour or two a day to thin out your stuff, and stick to it. Even if you start small, just clearing a couple of cabinets or drawers each day, a little daily progress will add up to a lot less clutter by the time you move.

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The Pet Move

Moving with our fur babies can be tricky. Lots of unexpected activity and getting adjusted to a new place is hard on our pets. To make the pet move easier, here are some helpful tips that will create a successful and stress-free move. 

Plan Ahead for your Pet Move

A big part of any move is careful planning and preparation. When there's a pet in the mix, making sure you're ready before moving day becomes even more important. Be sure to take care of these details well in advance to ensure a smooth transition.

• Research a new vet if you're moving far enough that your old one will be out of reach
• Find out if your pet will need any new vaccinations upon relocation.
• Get new collars and ID tags that reflect your new address, making certain that your cell phone number is on the collar. Micro-chipping isn't for everyone, but it's a good backup in case your pet loses its collar. 
• Look into tags with tracking software in them such as the new Apple AirTag that can be attached to a collar, or there are many other options to pet tracking tags.
• Check the local laws near your new home. Find out what the leash requirements are, whether you'll need to get a new license, and if there are any dog breed bans in place.
• If you are moving somewhere that driving with your pet would be too far, there are pet relocation services that will move your pet for you in a safe and stress-free way. You could also consider taking your pet on an airplane if your pet meets the airline's guidelines.

Prepare Your Pet

In the days and weeks leading up to your move, there are lots of things you can do to get your pet ready and reduce stress. Pets are like children, we want to ensure they are well taken care of and they are kept happy during this stressful time.

• If your new home isn't too far away, introduce your pet to it ahead of time. Even if it's just taking a walk to your new neighborhood, a little familiarity can be beneficial. 
• Crate training your pet can help ease anxiety and it allows your pet to be more comfortable in the car when moving day arrives. To do this, it is best to gradually acclimate your pet to the crate well in advance to the move.
• If your dog will need to learn new rules for your new location, start training in advance. Your dog may have to learn not to bark if you have close neighbors, could have to learn to be around other new animals, or may have to adapt to a smaller or larger home.  
• Bring out a few boxes and suitcases weeks before the move, so your pet doesn't get too anxious during the packing process. 

Pet Move Day

• The day you move to your new home can be a stress-filled roller coaster for everybody. Having a trusted pet with you can reduce your anxiety, so do everything you can to reduce their anxiety as well.
• Prepare an "overnight kit" and keep it easily accessible, including enough supplies your pet may need to stay comfortable during the first few days of unpacking—dog food, kitty litter, toys, etc.
• Depending on your pet's particular personality, it might be a good idea to send her to a trusted pet sitter's house for a day or two during the hustle and bustle of the move. 
• When moving your pet, bring your pet in the car with you if possible, and make the trip as comfortable if you can. Put a blanket over the crate or pet carrier if that's what your pet needs, and keep food and toys handy. Don't let your pet out until you get to the new house unless it's a long trip that requires a bathroom break. 
• During your pet move, positive reinforcement is key. Make sure your pet is receiving treats and love for all positive behavior to keep anxiety to a low.
• Have a room set up for your pet with lots of familiar objects (and smells) that will remind her of your old house. 

Helping your pet adjust to their new home before the move, during the move, and after the move can exponentially help the move be more successful. The last thing anyone wants is themselves, along with their pets to put any strain when moving to a new home. If you follow these steps you should be well on your way to success.

Contact us today to learn more about finding your dream home and planning your move. We are committed to helping you, your family, and your furry friends.