Moving to a new home is never really easy, but it can be particularly challenging when you’re doing a long-distance move. Over 8 million people moved out of state in 2022 alone, according to the U.S. Census Bureau — and that means you can do it, too. Are you considering moving to a new state (or even region) this year? Here are some ways to make the process easier. Declutter and donate unused belongings. There’s no point in moving items you no longer use or need, so take this time to pare down your belongings and donate or sell what you can. As an added bonus, this could also reduce your moving costs. Inventory your home. Take stock of the items you’ll be moving, including clothes, furniture, dishes and more. You’ll need this information to purchase the appropriate packing supplies and get accurate moving quotes. Make a detailed timeline. Work backward from moving day, and create a calendar of milestones that will ensure you’re ready by then. You can set deadlines for securing movers, packing up each room and more. Prioritize new home items. While packing up your items in your current home is a big part of the process, you also need to ensure your new home is ready when you get there. That means you’ll need to get utilities and internet set up, enroll your kids in school and have a clear idea of what items will need to be placed in each room by your movers. Planning a move in the near future? Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help buying or selling a home.

Paying off your mortgage early could save you money on interest paid over the life of the loan. It can also free up money to put toward other goals, like saving for retirement. Despite these perks, though, prepaying a mortgage isn’t right for everyone, and there may be some downsides to this strategy. Are you thinking of paying off your mortgage early? Check out some pros and cons to consider before you do. Pros: You’ll pay significantly less interest. You could potentially save thousands of dollars by minimizing the interest you pay during the loan term. You’ll get rid of monthly mortgage payments. Not having a large monthly payment could lighten the financial pressure on your household. You’ll free up funds for other goals. You may be able to put more toward retirement, your kids’ college accounts, your emergency fund or even your next vacation. Cons: There may be prepayment penalties. Be sure to read the fine print to see if your lender charges fees for paying your mortgage off early. You’ll lose the mortgage interest tax deduction. Keep in mind that you only get this write-off if you itemize your returns, but it only lasts as long as you’re paying your mortgage (and the interest that comes with it). Investing may net you more profit. The stock market typically offers returns of about 10% annually. Mortgage rates are lower than that currently, so you may be able to make more from investing than you’d save by prepaying. If you’re interested in putting your extra money toward the down payment on a second home or investment property instead, please get in touch.