CONDO MOVERS

When it’s time to move into, or out of, your Chicago condo or suburban Chicago condo, you may want to seek the services of condo movers.

We probably all fondly remember when friends and family could be bribed…er, persuaded to help on moving day with a couple extra-large pizzas and a case of a favorite cold beverage. But, as time wears on, it’s best not to risk losing friends and loved ones with additional requests for such help. Better call the professionals.

Just where can you find professional condo movers? Their names and phone numbers are all over the Internet and in local phone books. However, a selection based on a name or the type of ad is certainly not the best way to make a decision, is it? Definitely not.

The condo specialist Realtors® at OwnACondo.com offer the following tips to help your move go smoothly:

Getting started:

• Ask friends, family and business associates for recommendations.
• Be sure to check for the state license.
• Look into the movers’ reputation with the Better Business Bureau, Illinois Commerce Commission as well as any online consumer-oriented websites.
• Find out how long the condo mover has been in the business.

Pricing the move:

• Invite at least three firms to give estimates. On-site visits by the condo mover representative can be more accurate than phone or Internet estimates, but you might not want unknown individuals in your home .However, an in-person visit will give you the opportunity to get a strong impression of the company by the person who is sent.
• A quoted price substantially below other competitors might be too good to be true, or it might indicate a substantial mistake in the estimate.
• Summertime is the busiest season for movers; the last week of the month is particularly so. Keep this in mind.

The Number One complaint against movers by consumers is that on moving day the charges were much higher than the estimate.

Making the Move:

• Pack everything possible yourself, leaving only the hardest tasks for the movers.
• Understand that movers will disconnect appliances and reconnect at the new location, but will usually charge for it.
• Some things might not be worth moving. Consider donating.
• Be home when the condo mover crew arrives so you can supervise.
• Supervise the delivery process at your new destination. Consider having a trusted friend or family member on either end to assist.
• Before signing the condo mover’s delivery list, take a careful walk through your new home to be sure everything is accounted for.

For more information about this or any other aspect of Chicago real estate, contact OwnACondo.com by email or phone, 866-696-2266.