You don’t want to have issues with the moving company you’ve chosen — especially when relocating to a distant area. That’s why taking the steps necessary to ensure you’re making the best decision is crucial.

Here’s just a sampling of what to look for:

Recommendations

Ask for recommendations from trusted friends, family, or real estate professionals. Once you've compiled a shortlist, delve into online reviews to get a broader sense of customer satisfaction. Credentials For moves in the U.S., interstate movers must possess a valid U.S. DOT (Department of Transportation) number. If you’re moving within Canada, look for affiliations with the Canadian Association of Movers (CAM). These credentials are a mark of quality and professionalism in the industry.

Attention to Detail

A hallmark of a reputable mover is their meticulous approach. They'll ask detailed questions about your household items and do an exhaustive walkthrough. If they don’t, that’s a red flag.

Fees and Insurance

Inquire about any additional fees. Some movers might add charges for moving larger items (i.e. a piano), accessing stairs, or overnight storage. On the insurance front, while basic coverage is standard, it’s likely minimal. If you're transporting valuable items, consider opting for enhanced protection.

When potential buyers tour a home, bathrooms can have a big impact on them. An outdated or neglected bathroom can quickly sour their impression of your property overall. The good news is, you can spruce it up without breaking the bank. Here's how:

• Modern Hardware: Switching out old cabinet knobs, drawer pulls, or faucets can instantly modernize the room. Sleek metallic finishes such as brushed nickel or matte black are current favourites and easy to install.

• Grout and Caulking Touch-ups: Over time, grout can discolour and caulking can peel. Cleaning the grout and re-caulking areas around the tub and sink can make the bathroom look well-maintained and fresh.

• Revive Lighting: Good lighting is paramount in a bathroom. Swap outdated fixtures for contemporary ones. If you're not up for rewiring, even just updating the bulbs to bright, energy-efficient options can create a warm, welcoming ambiance.

• Shower Curtain and Mats: Replace old or worn-out shower curtains and bathmats. Opt for light-coloured or clear shower curtains to make the room feel more expansive. Fresh mats in neutral tones can tie the space together.

• Accessorize Thoughtfully: Consider a new soap dish, toothbrush holder, or a stylish tray for toiletries. Fresh, white towels displayed neatly or a couple of decorative items like potted plants can elevate the look without overwhelming the space.

• Mirrors: If your mirror is plain or showing signs of wear, consider framing it. A simple wooden frame, which you can stain or paint, adds character and finishes the look.

Small tweaks can lead to significant returns when selling your home. By investing a bit of time and creativity, your bathroom can be transformed into a space that potential buyers will notice.