How to Avoid Internet Scams

Posted on October 4, 2023 by David J Decker

Here’s a way to screw up your holidays: Get looted from an internet scam. Time for eight tips to avoid internet thieves:

Guard your personal information. Never give personal information over the phone, text or email to someone you don’t know.
Do business only with those you know and trust. This is good advice, but these days, you additionally have to be aware of crooks posing as a legitimate business you know and trust.
Double check. We just talked about why. The bad guys will try to pose like good guys. Check who that email came from in the from line and compare it to known legitimate emails. Have doubts about somebody calling you claiming to be from a trusted source? Get their name and number, internet search the number and if legitimate you can call them back.
Monitor accounts. Look for suspicious credit card transactions or other activity you don’t recognize.
Watch what you click on. Beware email attachments from sources unfamiliar to you.
Keep your antivirus software current and working.
Be on guard for any contact you didn’t initiate, be it a phone call, text message or email. Reach out directly in a separate email, text or phone call to your trusted sources to confirm the validity of this unsolicited contact.
Beware these scams:
1. Romance Scams – Someone online is interested in you but has every excuse about why they can’t meet in person, then they ask for money.
2. Overpayment Scams – Someone is going to overpay you for some item you’re selling or renting and you’re supposed to refund them the difference. Only your refund will be legitimate funds.
3. Phishing Scams – Scamsters email you from a seemingly legitimate company asking you to update your personal information or otherwise provide sensitive personal information like passwords, credit card numbers or even a social security number. Often, these scams have poor grammar or don’t look quite right in any number of ways. When in doubt, separately contact your existing trusted contacts at the company to confirm the legitimacy of this phisherman.
4. Unexpected prize. All you need to do to claim it is to pay a shipping charge or other fee. Now the scammer has your money and probably your credit card info too.
5. Ransomware Scam. If you make the mistake of clicking on something you shouldn’t have, the result is that a scammer could encrypt your data locking you out from your own files. In exchange for a ransom, the scammer is supposed to restore your data, but this often doesn’t happen. Some scammers skip the encryption part and just claim that they’ve copied or stolen your data. These you can just ignore.
6. Tech Support Scam. Once again, if you innocently import malware by clicking something you shouldn’t, you may get pop up ads from tech support companies warning you that you have a serious computer problem that the tech support scammer wants to fix.

The best solution is to maintain a certain degree of cynicism. Assume any unfamiliar contacts are from someone trying to steal from you!

photo by pexels.com

How to Stay Healthy While Working Remote

Posted on September 11, 2023 by David J Decker

Working remote is the thing. There’s nothing like rolling out of bed and pounding out a day’s work while still in your pajamas. No office politics, no commute, no dry-cleaning bill, what could go wrong?

Just a few things. Your routine is completely disrupted. There’s a certain discipline about showing up to work every day and looking sharp. When do you go to the gym? On your way home from work, or on the way there. Now you don’t go to work, so you don’t go to the gym. And wasn’t it closed anyway for Covid? So you got out of the habit.

And you got into the habit of snacking all day because you’re home all day and the food is right there. Don’t even go near the scale.

This may not turn out the way you wanted. Let’s make a plan so your remote work doesn’t spiral into a disaster.

Keep moving. You just saved all that commute time. That makes for a new time window for exercise that you may not have had before. Since people can’t see you while you’re working, you could be on a treadmill while you work. Or sitting on one of those exercise balls instead of a chair. Not all day, but once in a while. Which leads to….
Turn off your camera. If you’re on a video call, maybe they don’t need to see you and you keep moving while you’re on that call.
Find a buddy. If you need a little encouragement to get out for a walk in January, connect with a like-minded buddy.
Get out of Dodge. Or at least get out of your living room. Get dressed, go out and join the real world before moss starts to grow on you.
Think of food as fuel. Watch the snacking. Be deliberate. Perhaps set aside hours where snacking is not allowed. Place barriers between you and the food. Maybe those barriers are psychological but they could be physical too. But the good stuff on a high shelf so it’s inconvenient to access so you won’t just grab something as you walk past.
Escape when necessary. Maybe your spouse is working from home. Maybe that’s great, but maybe it isn’t. If it’s getting a little crowded, alter your schedule. Be an early riser getting up ahead of everyone else so you can have the house to yourself while everyone else is still sleeping. Or become a night owl if everyone is already an early riser.
Get out of your pajamas. It’s hard to feel like a super-power when you look like a slouch. Get dressed enough so that you’re ready to go out spontaneously. It doesn’t have to be what you wore to the office, but it should be something that if you decided to go grocery shopping, you wouldn’t have to change clothes first.
Be in tune to yourself. This list is designed to get you thinking. Remote work can be a blessing, but there are pitfalls. Those pitfalls could be unique to you. We may have hit upon some potential problems but missed others. Be thoughtful and deliberate about how you conduct your remote work and don’t allow bad habits to develop.

Need a little space for your home office? Consider Catalina Crossing in Madison.

09 11 2023 Remote Work - How to Stay Healthy While Working Remote Photo by pexels

A Better Solution for High Rents – Rent Control Hurts Those It Meant to Help

Posted on August 21, 2023 by David J Decker

In cities like Milwaukee, landlords are making inflation worse by jacking up rents. This is the charge leveled by Chris Krco, Community Land Trust founder and president of Housing for All. Mr. Krco went on to prescribe rent control as the remedy.

By why stop there? If rent control is a good idea, why not gas control and grocery control? Since Mr. Krco correctly attributed housing as a prime driver of inflation and since two thirds of all households live in a home they own, why not regulate and limit the sale prices of single-family homes? We are just a few laws aware from an affordable utopia!

Obviously, should such regulations be implemented, immediate shortages would result and homeowners would revolt. Instead of cheap gas and groceries, there would be no gas and groceries.

Mr. Krco claims without evidence that the negative effects of rent control are exaggerated and that jurisdictions with strict rent controls have extremely high-quality housing. Minimal common sense and even a cursory glance at the facts proves otherwise.

St. Paul voted rent control into existence last November, capping rent increases to 3% annually. Building permits plummeted 82% by January 2022 compared to the same period the prior year. In Minneapolis, where rent controls do not constrain development, building permits increased 68%.

Rapid inflation in rents is caused by demand outstripping supply of rental housing. Rent control makes an existing housing shortage worse. Further, it hurts the very populations it was intended to help. Landlords qualify tenants based on things like income and credit score. When market disruptors like rent control are introduced, tenant competition for what little housing remains heats up. Landlords can raise the standards for qualifying, resulting in less affluent income groups or individuals with lower credit scores being crowded out in favor of higher income applicants with higher credit scores.

There is a better way. Since rents increase in response to demand outpacing supply, increase the supply of rental housing. Here are three ways to do that.

Nationalize the building codes. Imagine what it would cost to manufacture cars if every municipality had a say in their design and safety features, but this is how we regulate housing construction. Instead, establish national standards. Yes, there will have to be variations to account for differences in climate, but those solutions should be regional, not local.
Turn the approval process upside down. Today, it can take longer to achieve permission to build than the time in construction. Turn this process around. If certain national, easily understood requirements are met, developers may proceed with construction. Local authorities will still have a say in what gets built in their communities, but they will have to be more creative. Local governments could grant tax incremental financing (TIF) subsidies to desired projects and withhold the same from those developments deemed not as desirable, placing them at a competitive disadvantage.
Subsidize development. In addition to TIF subsidies, tax credits are already available for developers willing to construct income restricted rentals. Make existing credits more lucrative and extend the standard subsidy to market rate housing.

None of these subsidies will soak taxpayers. TIF subsidies are a forgiveness of future tax revenues that never would have materialized had there not been new development. Tax credits that spur more development are a sound investment. Nothing jump-starts economic activity like more construction. Increased economic activity will generate higher tax revenues. Once rents stabilize, the tax credit subsidies can be withdrawn.

photo by pexels.com

Tips for Redecorating and Reorganizing Your Rental

Posted on July 31, 2023 by David J Decker

Redecorating and reorganizing your rental is a great way to make it feel more like home. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy atmosphere or maximize storage space, there are plenty of things you can do to spruce up your living space. In this article, Marjorie Jones from www.workingclasswow.com shares some tips for redecorating and reorganizing your rental.

Rearrange the Furniture

One of the easiest ways to give your rental a new look is by rearranging the furniture. MYMOVE notes that moving furniture around can make a room look bigger or smaller, depending on what you’re going for. Try switching things up and seeing how it looks with different configurations. You might be surprised at how much of a difference this simple change can make.

Utilize Bookshelves and Closets

If you’re struggling with storage space, consider utilizing bookshelves and closets as much as possible. This can help you keep your living space looking neat and organized without taking up too much floor space. Utilizing wall-mounted shelves for extra storage is also a good option if you don’t want to take up too much of your rental’s precious square footage. Invest in some attractive storage containers or baskets to keep everything organized. This will not only help you stay organized but also make your rental feel more spacious.

Invest in Multifunctional Furniture

If you’re renting a property, but still want your space to feel like home, investing in multifunctional furniture is key. Not only does multifunctional furniture look great and save you space, it can also save you some cash!

Multifunctional pieces are designed to do more than one job – think bed frames with drawers, storage ottomans that double as seating, coffee tables with cupboards beneath them – whatever meets your needs and fits in the rental space. With some savvy shopping and smart decision-making, you can make even the most limited rental space look chic and feel comfortable.

Hang Curtains or Add Blinds

Adding curtains or blinds can completely transform a room’s look and feel. Not only does it add a touch of style, but it can also help control the light in the room. This is especially important if you live in a rental with lots of windows that let in too much sunlight during certain times of day. Consider opting for sheer curtains if you want to let natural light into your home while still maintaining privacy.

Use Throw Pillows, Rugs, and Other Decor

Transforming your rental into a haven without making any permanent renovations is possible if you know what to focus on. Throw pillows, rugs, and other decor can be used to make a huge difference in the look and feel of your rental. When shopping for items like a sustainably-stylish lumbar pillow, look for colors that can easily blend with the existing hue of your walls or curtains.

A rug that adds warmth will instantly separate one area from another while beautifully tying the entire space together. Pillows come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so they’re perfect for creating clusters around seating areas or brightening up a corner sofa. If you’re feeling creative, you may even want to try adding wall decor such as stickers, canvases, and vases filled with fresh blooms for extra appeal.

Add Plants

Adding plants to your living space is another popular option. They can liven up any room, while also bringing in additional oxygen and cleaning the air. Greenery has many health benefits such as improved air quality and stress relief, so it’s worth looking into even if you’re new to caring for plants.

However, if you’re new to greenery, Home Garden Hero has several tips on how to take care of your plants. Adding plants to your rental doesn’t have to take a ton of effort, so anyone can enjoy their very own green space.

Redecorating and reorganizing your rental doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. By redecorating your home office, rearranging your furniture, adding indoor plants, and more, you can easily transform your living space into something that feels like home without breaking the bank. So go ahead – start planning out how you want to decorate and organize your living space today.

Decker Properties owns and manages hundreds of apartments throughout southeastern Wisconsin. Contact us today to learn more! 262-785-0840

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Launch a Successful Company While Moving

Posted on July 17, 2023 by David J Decker

Are you a remote worker with a growing business, but finding your current space not big enough for both living and work? Or, maybe you have decided to move to a new home, but the thought of moving your business at the same time is daunting. Whatever the case may be, we understand the challenge of starting a business and moving simultaneously. Fortunately, there are ways to make this transition as seamless as possible.

In the following article from Danny at fixitdads.com, we will explore some tips and tricks to help you start a business and move at the same time.

Alert Customers of Your Move

First and foremost, let your customers know about your company’s transition to limit confusion on their end. Send out an email, update your website, and post on your social media accounts. Make sure that your new business address is updated on all your marketing materials to ensure your customers can locate you with ease.

Keep Work Supplies Accessible During the Move

Packing your work supplies and equipment for a move can be overwhelming but keeping them accessible should be a priority. This can include anything from office equipment, files, and office supplies that you need to conduct business. Label the boxes clearly so you can find what you need at a moment’s notice.

Keep Your Documents Organized With PDF Tools

In today’s fast-paced digital world, staying organized and managing documents effectively is crucial for both personal and professional success. Free PDF tools have emerged as a lifesaver for those looking to streamline their document management process. These user-friendly tools offer a wide range of functionalities that cater to various needs, such as merging, splitting, compressing, and converting files. For instance, if you want to combine PDF files, you can easily do so with the help of these tools, which not only save time but also ensure that your documents remain clutter-free and well-organized. Moreover, these free PDF tools are accessible across multiple platforms, making it easier than ever to keep your documents in order and stay on top of your game.

Keep Communications Open

When starting your business move, keeping your team informed of the move plan is essential to avoid communication issues. You also need to ensure that your remote team members have the tools they need to continue working while you’re in transit. Tools such as Zoom and Skype can be very effective in keeping communication channels open and ensuring projects continue promptly.

Choose a Home That Has Plenty of Office Space

Choosing a home with ample office space is essential, especially for those who work remotely or run their own business from home. Finding the right apartment to live in requires careful consideration of factors such as location, budget, and available amenities; however, it is equally important to ensure that the property offers sufficient space to create a dedicated and comfortable workspace. A well-designed home office can significantly impact productivity and overall well-being, allowing you to maintain a healthy work-life balance. When you’re ready to start looking for the right apartment, check out Apartments.com.

Create a Comprehensive To-Do List and Calendar

Planning a move is already complicated, let alone moving and starting a business at the same time. A thorough to-do list and calendar will help you stay on track throughout the entire process. You should include every step of the moving process and all the necessary business tasks required to keep your company running smoothly during the move.

Boost Your Business with an Online Bachelor’s Degree

As you begin to grow your business, consider pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in accounting, business management, or marketing to expand your knowledge and skills. This education will equip you with valuable insights and practical expertise to stay competitive in your industry. By investing in yourself through an online degree, you’ll be better prepared to navigate the challenges of business expansion and ensure long-term success.

Starting a business and moving can seem like an insurmountable task, but with the right planning and mindset, it is more straightforward than it might seem. Remember to take advantage of free tools to help manage documents, inform your customers and team members, and choose a home that has ample office space. With these tips, you can start your business successfully while moving to a new home with ease.

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6 Ways Tenants Can Improve Apartment Air Quality

Posted on June 20, 2023 by David J Decker

It didn’t use to be well-known that indoor air quality was often lower than outdoor air quality. Most people assumed that just because they have gotten rid of the dust inside their homes, the air inside those homes was less polluted than the air outside the home.

Today, we are realizing that this is not true.

According to Nelson Management Company, there are often more sources of air pollution inside the home than outside it. They include everyday things we use for combustion, such as gas, wood, kerosene, and tobacco products. These release toxic fumes that can harm the home’s occupants.

Other sources of air pollution in the home are treated wood products found in cabinetry and furniture; fumes from household cleaning and personal care products; toxic gases emitted by building materials, and outdoor sources like radon or lawn pesticides.

HVAC systems can also worsen the indoor air quality issues of a home. That is because of the relative lack of air circulation inside the home compared to outside it. This problem is due to the way HVAC systems are designed to work.

To maintain the home temperature at the desired levels, the HVAC requires limited airflow between the outside and inside of the home. Sealing up the openings, joints and cracks where air can enter or exit keeps cooled or warmed air from escaping.

But this limited ventilation has unintended consequences. The same air is recycled inside the home over and over with the result that the concentration of air pollutants often reaches very high levels. That is in contrast to what is happening outside the home.

To compound the issues, most people spend up to 90% of their time inside a climate-controlled building, making them more likely to suffer from respiratory problems. Unknown to these people, they are more at risk of exposure to air pollution inside their homes than outside.

Is there anything you can do about the problem?

6 ways tenants and property managers can improve apartment air quality

1. Clean carpets and furniture regularly

Carpets and furniture are massive contributors to homes’ poor indoor air quality issues because of their ability to trap air pollutants. Regular cleaning of the carpets and furniture in the home using a vacuum cleaner will limit this problem.

2. Limit or eliminate toxic products

Check household cleaning and personal care products to make sure they don’t contain toxic ingredients. Ventilate the home every time you use a cleaning product. If possible, use only untreated wood inside the house. If anyone has to smoke, let them do it in a well-ventilated area.

3. Replace filters when necessary

Dirty filters impede the ability of your HVAC to clean incoming air. Air filters are designed to trap the particles in the air, but those particles are reintroduced into the home if the filters are not cleaned or replaced as needed. Dirty air filters also impair the HVAC function. Decker Properties changes the filters for you on a programmed basis. Just another thing you don’t have to worry about.

Click here for a filter source.

4. Ventilate the kitchen when cooking

Smoke from the kitchen and cooking oil fumes are two of the biggest causes of air pollution in the home. It is impossible to eliminate kitchen smoke and oil fumes from the home. But you can ensure they are completely removed by ensuring the windows are open. This allows fresh air to circulate through your apartment, flushing out stale air.

5. Pay attention to humidity levels

A lot of water vapor is released into the air during shower times (especially hot showers). This water vapor does not go away when you leave the shower. It lingers for a long time. Mold and dust mites can cause respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues.

To prevent this from happening, it’s essential to control humidity levels in your apartment. You can do this using dehumidifiers or opening windows and doors to let in fresh air. It’s also essential to promptly fix any leaks or water damage in your apartment.

6. Use natural cleaning products

Cleaning products can contain various harmful chemicals contributing to poor indoor air quality. To reduce the level of harmful chemicals in your apartment, switch to natural cleaning products.

Natural cleaning products such as vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice can be used to clean surfaces effectively and safely. Additionally, you can use air-purifying plants, such as spider plants, peace lilies, and Boston ferns, to improve air quality naturally

Swimming With the Current: A Remote Worker’s Guide to Climate Change Relocation

Posted on May 30, 2023 by David J Decker

If you are working remotely and concerned about climate change, you’ll need to think carefully about where you live and adopt strategies to ensure your and your family’s comfort for years down the line. Here, Marjorie Jones at Workingclasswow.com presents some tips to get you started.

Geography

Your first point of action is to identify which areas are less (or more) prone to natural disasters like fires, floods, and severe weather. Coastal regions, for example, may be at risk of flooding due to rising sea levels, while inland areas could be at risk of wildfires or heavy drought. Research the area’s history of natural disasters and scientific predictions and look for areas that have a low risk. You may, for example, want to consider the Great Plains, the Midwest, and the Northeastern states – these are typically understood to be safer in the long term.

Also look at the way different states are handling the climate crisis. For instance, Wisconsin has been supporting national and international charges towards change since 2019. In fact, in 2018 Xcel Energy became the first utility company in the country to commit to transitioning to renewable energy sources.

Properties

If you have located an area you think will be safe for years to come, your next priority is to scope out a property. You can start this process by utilizing online resources like Zillow, Redfin, and Trulia to compare prices and look for features that could be useful in a crisis (such as basements or extra storage). You can also reach out to local real estate agents for help in finding a property that meets your needs.

It may even be worth considering renting for the long term – this will allow you to remain flexible in case of any drastic events, and you can still use the above options to filter by home type, cost, and the number of bedrooms/bathrooms. You can also check out available apartments from Decker Properties if you are looking to relocate in southeastern Wisconsin.

Remote Working

One of the advantages of being a remote worker is that you are not chained to a single location. This means you can be flexible in the event of climate-related phenomena. It’s important, then, to strengthen your position as a remote worker – this means journalizing your experience and collecting references and testimonials that speak to your competence. If you’re looking for new work since your move, you can employ a few clever marketing strategies to reinforce your client base.

Entrepreneurship

When it comes to future-proofing against climate change, employers can often represent another risk – you never know how a company might be affected by market shifts or their base of operations is directly impacted by the weather itself. By establishing a business of your own, you can at least have the autonomy to build a company that you know will withstand any dramatic economic or ecological changes.

Thankfully, it’s easier than ever to start a Limited Liability Company (LLC) thanks to formation services. An LLC will protect your personal liability, provide tax advantages and reduce your paperwork quantities.

Founding your own business also gives you the opportunity to put in place sustainable, environmentally friendly, carbon-saving practices. This could involve digitizing paper records and converting files to PDF format. There are plenty of free tools to help add pages, combine files, and provide feedback on PDFs. Plus, with an editable PDF, you can make changes and get comments without ever having to use a piece of paper or waste any ink!

Support Positive Changes

Global warming is affecting everyone around the world, and, as a remote worker, you may have more flexibility to move to an area that you know will be safe in the face of climate shifts. By researching the area’s history of natural disasters, renting to stay flexible, and starting your own business (and implementing organized, sustainable business practices), you can ensure a smooth, safe transition to your new home in the years to come.

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How to Successfully Navigate Living Between Two Homes

Posted on May 8, 2023 by David J Decker

There’s no doubt about it — multi-state living is a trend these days if you can afford it. However, even if you can live between two properties on your current budget, you still want to look at ways to save money so you can live as economically as possible. Cameron at www.bizwealthbuilder.com shares some helpful tips to ensure you’re making the most of your budget no matter what.

Work within your budget

If you are planning to live in multiple states, your budget will look a little different. After all, you’re going to have to reassess your budget to take into account your new state’s cost of living as well as all the extras on top of this such as your moving costs as well as your new mortgage repayments since you’re going to need to cover two properties instead of one.

Furthermore, Eco Talk notes that you may need to look into reducing expenditure if your current budget is being stretched to the maximum. Therefore, be sure to take advantage of cost savings, whether this involves buying groceries in bulk, buying certain items out of season, or building a pantry where you can store food items in bulk to help last you throughout the latter half of the year, etc.

Managing a business properly

Since you will be living between two places, it’s likely that you won’t be as involved in your business as you normally would. This is where having a second pair of hands and eyes on your legal affairs could come in very handy should a serious issue arise with your legal or tax duties. Virtual Post Solutions points out that having a registered agent on standby means that you’ll always be aware of what is happening with your business, no matter where you are.

Making use of storage facilities

Suppose you’re in the early stages of moving your belongings from one place to another. You want to be sure that you are not going to misplace or let go of anything you’d regret at a later date. You might want to make use of self-storage facilities in the meanwhile. This is especially helpful if you’re downsizing or moving from a larger house to a smaller apartment. For professional help and advice in this regard, reach out to Decker Properties, who can find the ideal rental unit in a neighborhood that suits your needs.

Making smarter, safer choices for your family

Indeed, you want to be sure that you are making smart and safe purchases for your family by making use of quality products that are going to end up lasting their lifetime. Therefore, be sure to read reviews beforehand to ensure that you are getting an unbiased view of what the product is actually like before you go out and buy it.

Fun facts you might want to know about before you move

If you’re looking for a second city to call home, then you might want to consider New York if getting a quality education for your children is one of your topmost priorities.
If you are planning on bringing your pets with you, and you desire a place that has many dog-friendly parks, then San Francisco is the way to go.
Hawaii is rated as the top state for overall healthcare in the country.
If you’re looking for lots to do, then you’re certain not to be bored for long in Las Vegas.
Suppose you want to show your kids the best of what’s on offer in terms of kids’ entertainment, Orlando is the place, as Disneyland is one of the top attractions

As you can tell, considering a second home in another state is certainly something that requires careful consideration to ensure you and your family are going to be happy in the long run.

Image via Pexels

Check Out Your Landlord

Posted on April 17, 2023 by David J Decker

Applying for an apartment? You can bet your landlord will be checking you out. More than likely, there will be an income verification, criminal background check, credit check and landlord reference.

Maybe you should check out your landlord as well. And it isn’t hard. What do you think the internet is for anyway?

Do an internet search on the company. Check the Better Business Bureau. Do a search on the apartment complex if it’s large enough to have an internet presence.

Take what you find with a grain of salt. It’s so easy for someone that’s frustrated to drop an electronic bomb on anyone. Look for patterns, not single instances of complaints or compliments.

At Decker Properties, Inc., we have an A+ rating with the BBB. Our Google reviews average four out of five stars. In fact, all our reviews are either five star or one star. That’s what you would expect to find from any well-run company. Most interactions are positive, but it is impossible to please everyone.

I invite you to search any of the Decker Properties locations, like Catalina Crossing in McFarland/Madison or The Oaks at 8100 in Oak Creek.

Smart Relocation Tips to Help You Start Fresh After a Move

Posted on March 27, 2023 by David J Decker

Here’s a guest post from our friends at workingclasswow.com.

Starting with a clean slate is often the healthiest way to get past big challenges. For many people, the opportunity to relocate and refresh their lives is a far-off dream. If you’re fortunate enough to be considering a big move, Decker Properties offers these tips for making it work.

Choose a Destination

Deciding where to relocate is the most important part of starting fresh somewhere new. Building a new life in a place you love is the perfect way to move forward.

Whether you relocate for a job offer, seek out a spot with optimal weather, or choose one of the more affordable places to live in the US, the destination will influence your next steps. Think about the must-haves for your new home and research the possibilities. Plan trips to visit as a tourist first, if possible.

Once you select a destination, it’s time to begin planning. Research the costs involved in moving, including fuel, hiring a moving company, box purchases, and equipment rental. Also, consider essentials like finding a new doctor, scoping out amenities, and learning how to get around.

Find the Perfect Rental

Buying a house may not be on the priority list when transplanting to a new city. Moving somewhere new is exciting, but deciding whether to put down permanent roots can take time.

Of course, finding the right rental has a big impact on the experience, too. Whether you’re interested in finding an eco-friendly rental or have your eye on a particular neighborhood, take time to research.

For help with narrowing down the options, Reach out to Decker Properties.

Move or Start a Business

Part of the appeal of entrepreneurship is the ability to work from anywhere. Whether you already run a business or want to launch a new company, it’s easy to make the move work.

If your business is moving with you, a bit of planning helps you avoid downtime. Confirm that utilities (especially internet) are available ahead of time and pack your office first. For new startups, your new home may affect your business plans or reveal new opportunities. Keep an open mind and an eye on the local market.

For both new and existing businesses, paperwork will be key. Each state has unique requirements for business owners, notes Constant Contact, and rules can vary by county or city, too. Check your area’s rules before filing, and consider using a formation service for things like forming an LLC to save time and money.

Pursue Higher Education

If starting a business doesn’t suit your relocation plans, consider a different career upgrade. Furthering your education with a degree in business, communications, accounting, or management could expand your opportunities no matter where you live.

Online education is also flexible; this is a good direction if you’re balancing work and home life while going to school. Remote education could also be manageable even as you move.

Grow a Community

Especially if your move stems from a low point in your personal life, growing a community is vital. As BetterUp explains, feeling connected to others strengthens mental health and helps people manage challenges.

Networking in your new city is one way to build a community; faith-based organizations, hobby clubs, volunteer groups, and even coworking spaces can help you connect. Online friendships can also be valuable, offering a low-stakes means of sharing similar interests.

Starting over in a new place is thrilling, but it also takes preparation and patience. Building a new life means a chance to embrace change and become the best version of yourself. With these tips and a positive attitude, you’re off to a great start.