Tampa realtors are “wait and see” for hurricane real estate recovery

It’s no secret that residential real estate listings in Tampa and surrounding areas are in limbo after hurricanes Helene and Milton raged through the region. Even as cleanup and recovery has been underway for weeks, it’s shaping up to be a slow trudge to the finish line.

“Most of us are coming up for air right now,” said Virginia Bond, License Partner-Global Advisor for Engel & Volkers Tampa Downtown. “We’ve experienced damage through this experience or know someone that suffered large losses during the storms.”

While it will take some time, Bond knows there may be a mass sell-off but cautions homeowners to pause and seek advice before making major decisions.  She believes real estate will rebound based on an article published by Journal of Environmental Economics and Management, Volume 118, March 2023. “Because the market is so localized, things will be totally different from area-to-area,” she said.

Discussions about interest rates that began at the beginning of 2024 and manifested in a half point drop in September have not yet made a material difference in markets across the country. But the expectation of as much as another point reduction in 2025 are more likely to create movement.

“Florida will need that. Especially considering that there are people who will have to move now but weren’t planning to,” Bond said.

A September survey of consumers by Fannie Mae found 42 percent of respondents said they expect mortgage rates to decline over the next year. At the same time, consumers expect prices to rise, a factor that seems to have replaced interest rates as what consumers consider to be the biggest barrier to housing affordability.

An already small inventory of available homes will be even smaller, at least before they get repaired. Homes that avoided hurricane damage and that are out of flood zones will be in even higher demand, Bond said.

Getting properties fixed and ready to be sold in a post hurricane environment is proving challenging. Bond recounted the story of a client who owns multiple properties in the Tampa area with upwards of $50,000 of deductibles that need to be paid to remediate hurricane damages. Hiring companies to do the work has been next to impossible so far because demand is outpacing capacity.

Bond and Engel & Volkers Tampa Downtown are gathering resources and creating a list of various vendors that can help clients with their recovery – from roof repair and flood mitigation to moving and storage. We’ve also hosted an event for agents to attend and get information for their clients,” Bond said. “People need resources right now so we are planning the same event for homeowners who need help.”

About Olympia

Olympia is a full-service residential and commercial moving company and commercial services firm. In addition to the packing, loading and hauling household goods for homeowners who are moving across the street or around the country, Olympia performs commercial services including warehousing for FF+E projects, decommissioning and liquidation, facilities management and logistics and much more. Olympia is an INTERstate Agent for Wheaton World Wide Moving. You can learn more about Olympia at olympiamoving.com and Olympiaofficemovers.com or call 800-222-4744

How to Pack Alcohol for Moving: Tips and Strategies for a Safe and Secure Move

Moving is a stressful and time-consuming process. However, it can be especially nerve-wracking when you have a prized alcohol collection that needs to be moved. Whether you are moving across the country or just to a new neighborhood, packing your favorite bottles requires special considerations to ensure they stay safe and secure. In this article, we’ll provide you with tips and strategies to safely pack alcohol for a hassle-free move.

Understanding the Importance of Properly Packing Alcohol

Before we delve into the best ways to pack alcohol, it’s essential to understand why proper packing is crucial. First and foremost, inadequate packing can result in broken bottles and lost money. It is especially true when it comes to fragile or expensive bottles. Additionally, alcohol spillage can happen if the packaging isn’t secure, which can damage the rest of your belongings, and worse, pose a safety hazard.

However, packing alcohol isn’t just about avoiding damages and losses. It is also about preserving the quality of the alcohol. Improper packing can lead to oxidation, which can affect the taste and aroma of the alcohol. So, if you want to enjoy your favorite drink after the move, you need to pack it correctly.

Preventing leaks and spills

Preventing leaks and spills is one of the most critical aspects of packing alcohol for a move. One way to avoid this issue is by sealing all bottles with a durable tape and covering the caps or corks with plastic wrap before wrapping them securely in bubble wrap and packing them in the box. Putting bottles in individual zipper bags can help protect them from spillage during transportation as well.

Another way to prevent leaks is by choosing the right container. For example, if you’re packing wine, it’s best to use a container with a tight-fitting lid that can prevent any liquid from seeping out. You can also use wine skins, which are leak-proof bags designed specifically for wine bottles.

Protecting your investment

When you have invested time, money, and effort in building an alcohol collection, you want to ensure it is adequately protected during the move. Using sturdy moving boxes and reinforcements such as packing paper, foam padding, or airbags can help prevent breakage. Packing boxes with enough cushioning materials can mitigate any impact on the bottles during transit. It is worth noting that the box weight should not surpass around 50 lbs. Larger boxes may cause bottles to break as they shift during transport.

It’s also essential to consider the orientation of the bottles when packing. For instance, you should pack wine bottles horizontally, as this can prevent the cork from drying out and spoiling the wine. On the other hand, you should pack liquor bottles vertically to avoid any leaks or spills.

Ensuring safety during transport

Safety during transport is essential not only for your belongings but also for the moving crew. When packing alcohol, it’s crucial to label the boxes as “Fragile” to avoid mishandling. The moving company might require you to declare any alcohol you are moving, so be sure to check the local regulations and laws. Also, consider packing your wine in an insulated container to guard against temperature fluctuations.

It’s also a good idea to pack your alcohol separately from other items in the moving truck. This can prevent any accidental damage caused by shifting during transport. You can also consider transporting your alcohol in your car, especially if you have a large collection or if you’re moving long-distance.

Finally, it’s essential to unpack your alcohol as soon as possible after the move. Leaving it in the box for an extended period can increase the risk of damage or spoilage. So, make sure to unpack your alcohol and store it in a cool, dark place where it can age gracefully.

Assessing Your Alcohol Collection

Assessing your alcohol collection is a critical step before the packing process begins. This helps you identify any fragile or valuable items that might require extra protection. Start by taking an inventory of your collection and separating them by type, such as wine, liquor, or beer. When selecting bottles for transport, consider their sentimental or monetary value, age, and rarity. If you own large bottles, they typically require extra care and attention, so plan accordingly.

Taking inventory

Take an inventory of your collection well ahead of time to give you adequate room to plan and pack everything accordingly. This will also give you an opportunity to determine which bottles need to be consumed before the move, saving you some packing effort.

Identifying fragile or valuable items

Identifying fragile or valuable items in your collection will help you decide how to pack them. For example, high-value bottles might require extra padding, custom crating, or special handling. Meanwhile, fragile items such as glassware and accessories should be packed separately into boxes with plenty of cushioning material.

Deciding what to pack and what to leave behind

If your alcohol collection is vast and diverse, you might have to decide which bottles to take with you and which ones to leave behind. Consider donating any bottles that do not hold sentimental or monetary value, and dispose of unopened bottles that you no longer require, especially if they’ve been opened for over six months.

Gathering the Right Packing Materials

Gathering the right packing materials is essential to protect your bottles during the move. Materials such as packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper or newsprint, and foam inserts are essential to keep the bottles secure. The boxes you use also play a crucial role in your bottles’ safety, so consider investing in sturdy boxes designed for the specific packing requirements of alcohol bottles.

Choosing the right boxes

Choosing the right boxes can significantly impact the safety and security of your alcohol collection. Use standard size moving boxes designed explicitly for alcohol to ensure they fit snugly inside. Look for boxes with dividers or compartments to segregate individual bottles or consider using wooden crates – especially for high-value bottles.

Using bubble wrap and packing paper

Bubble wrap and packing paper are inexpensive and effective materials that can help cushion and protect your bottles. Wrap each bottle in at least two layers of bubble wrap, ensuring that all sides are covered. Packing paper or newsprint can be used to fill any gaps between bottles or the box’s sides. Avoid using newspaper as the ink can transfer to the glass.

Securing bottles with tape and other tools

Securing the bottles in the box is essential to prevent movement during transit. Apply sturdy packing tape to secure the bubble wrap around the bottle, ensuring it doesn’t unravel during the move. For larger bottles, consider additional protective layers and use foam inserts to prevent any shifting.

Packing Techniques for Different Types of Alcohol

Different types of alcohol require varying packing techniques. Wine bottles, for example, must remain in an upright position and packed horizontally so that the cork remains wet, preventing spoilage. Here are some tips for packing specific types of alcohol.

Packing wine bottles

When packing wine bottles, wrap each bottle in bubble wrap, securing the tape across the bottles’ neck and base to prevent any movement. Fill the bottom of the box with packing paper or foam inserts to cushion the bottles and stack no more than six bottles per box. When placing the box in the moving truck, ensure they are packed horizontally to avoid any unwanted movement inside the box.

Packing liquor bottles

When packing liquor bottles, place each bottle in a ziplock bag, and then wrap them with bubble wrap. Place the wrapped bottles into the box, filling any gaps with packing paper or foam inserts. Be sure to secure the box with sturdy tape across the top to prevent any spillage.

Packing beer bottles and cans

When packing beer bottles and cans, ensure that you protect them with bubble wrap or foam inserts. Beer cans can often be packed together tightly without much issue, but bottles should be separated by at least one inch of cushioning material. Consider placing bottles in individual compartments with dividers for optimal protection

Packing glassware and accessories

When packing glassware and accessories, use similar packing techniques used for fragile or delicate items. Wrap each item in packing paper or foam and place them in a separate box carefully. Triple-A Furniture Moving blankets can also be wrapped around the entire box for additional insulation.

Conclusion

Packing your alcohol collection for a move can be a daunting task. However, with a little bit of planning and the right materials, you can keep your bottles secure and ready to drink once you’ve arrived at your new home. By following the tips and strategies outlined in this article, you can ensure that your prized alcohol collection arrives safely at its destination.

Moving is not an easy task. When people try to DIY it, they’re doing themselves a major disservice. There are so many trained local professionals available to make the process simpler. Hiring a professional moving service can save you time, money, stress, and much more. Here are 15 reasons why hiring local movers should be one of the first things you do when ready to pack up your life.

1. Security

Give yourself peace of mind knowing your belongings are in good hands. Experienced movers will transport them safely and securely. They’ll have the expertise and experience to move your items with care. If something is fragile, then the professionals will take extreme precautions to ensure breakage doesn’t happen. Moving your belongings yourself, especially heavy or awkwardly held ones risks the possibility of damaging them.

2. Convenience

There are so many moving parts to moving. Doing it yourself can take up a lot of time and energy. Plus, you’d most likely have to rent a truck! Remember, the rest of your life won’t stop just because you have to take the time to move. Professional movers will have all the necessary equipment to safely transport your belongings in no time. It’s useful if you’re also working and don’t have the extra time to dedicate to packing and moving. Why spend your evenings or weekends packing when the pros will happily do so for you?

3. Cost Efficiency

You may think DIY moving is automatically cheaper than hiring moving contractors, but that’s not true. Local movers have the experience and know-how to protect your items, thus saving you from costly repairs or replacements down the line. If you have a lot of stuff to move, things like the cost of packing materials and truck rental can add up quickly. Local moving companies will have all their supplies and know the most efficient route to get your items there on time.

4. Speed

As mentioned, local movers save you time. The faster you move, the less stress it causes. If you have a short time frame to move from your current place to your new one, it may be hard on your own. The more hands on deck you have, the faster it’ll go. For example, maybe you have to start a new job in another city next week. So you have to pack, load things into a truck, drive to a new city, unload things into a new home, and still be prepared for your first day. You’ll only have days to do so, but professionals can work fast enough to accomplish the task on time.

5. Safety

Moving heavy boxes and furniture can wreak havoc on the body. Injuries can occur during a move if handled improperly. Common injuries include back, shoulder, arm, and leg strains. Professional movers have the right tools to move items safely, such as dollies and straps. When you allow them to do the job, you’ll save your body some pain and get the job done right in a safe manner. After all, back pain can put a damper on your life.

6. Organization

When you hire a professional moving service, your belongings will be organized and labeled for easy unpacking in your new home. This organization will help make the transition to your new home smoother and more efficient. You won’t have to wonder which box goes where in your new home. Plus, a professional moving service will ensure that all your items arrive at the same time.

7. Less Stress

Hiring a moving service eliminates tons of the stress associated with moving. You won’t have to worry about packing, lifting, or transporting heavy objects. Stress while moving is common and can manifest as physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion. Put your trust in professionals to help you move so you can spend energy on the more important things during this time.

8. Insurance

Professional movers provide you with liability insurance for any potential damage or loss in transit. Such insurance is something you wouldn’t get if you do the move on your own. If you lose or damage items during a DIY move, then you’ll simply have to eat the loss.

9. Storage Options

Did you know that moving storage is also an option? If you’re not ready to move into your new home right away, then some moving companies often offer storage options. Storage allows you to store your items in a safe and secure location until you’re ready to move.

10. Accurate Estimate

Moving professionals should be transparent with their pricing. You’ll receive an accurate estimate of the cost and time needed to complete your move. Since this information is available upfront, it allows you to plan your budget accordingly. On the other hand, a DIY move may come with unexpected expenses ranging from extra gas, packing materials, rental fees, and replacing damaged items.

11. Cleanliness

DIY moves can often be messy. It’s hard to keep your old place clean while packing and loading things onto the moving truck. Professional movers are knowledgeable and come with the right tools to ensure your old place is left clean. Many of them also offer special cleaning services.

12. Satisfaction Guarantee

Professional moving services often come with a satisfaction guarantee. The guarantee comes with a promise to ensure you’re happy with the services provided. If something goes wrong, they’ll do their best to make it right. Some movers may even offer a money-back guarantee.

13. Easy Transportation

No matter how well you drive, hauling a moving truck on the highway is a different experience altogether. Local movers know how to maneuver trucks loaded with furniture and other items. They know the rules of the road, how to park the truck, and how to secure items properly, so they don’t move during transport. With a professional moving service, you don’t have to worry about driving a rental truck or trailer from one place to another.

14. Out-of-State Help

In 2017, according to The Mercury News, 8.4% of all people in the U.S. moved to a new location, with 17.3% of these moves being to a different state. Interstate moves involve more time and patience. You must be mindful of how road rules may change as you cross state lines. Movers know how to navigate these situations with ease. Hire them for this type of move, and you can simply drive yourself or take a flight.

15. Local Economy Support

Supporting the local economy is a bonus of hiring professional movers. When you hire a local moving company, your money goes back into the community. Moving companies usually hire locally, which creates jobs and boosts the economy. So look for professionals in your area, and make sure to check online reviews. If you like their services, then you can provide a reference to other locals.

Moving involves a lot of tasks and responsibilities. Hiring a professional moving service is the best way to transport your items from one place to another quickly, safely, and stress-free. With their help, you can avoid the many hassles and complications involved in relocating. If you’re planning a move, then contact our team at Olympia Moving and Storage. Whether your new home is in another local neighborhood or another city, we’ll handle all your moving needs. We look forward to hearing from you.

Chances are, you’ll come across things that are better off in the dumpster than your suitcase when you’re packing for a move. That’s why it’s important to know your options when it comes to removing junk before your next move. 

Rent a Dumpster

Sometimes a little brute force is all you need to solve your problems. If you can’t keep everything, then throw everything away! Renting a dumpster is an effective way to get rid of everything in one fell swoop. Your service provider will drop off a dumpster at your doorstep and pick it up when you’re done with it.

Hold an Estate Sale

If you have items that are a little too big, like furniture and electronics, an estate sale should get rid of most of it, while raking in some cash for you on the side. Advertise the event online, put a sign up, and people will flock in for whatever you need gone.

Sell on Local Online Marketplaces

If you have the time and effort, selling items online can net you the most profit. Listing them on community forums like Facebook groups, Facebook Marketplace, and other online market tools can net you the most profits. The only downside is the time consuming nature of selling things online. 

Donate Items

One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Your 10 year old TV may be unusable to you, but there’s someone out there that can probably use it. Donation centers like Goodwill, the Salvation Army, and Savers are a great place to donate your belongings.

If you anticipate there to be lots of junk during your next move, remember to rent a dumpster or get rid of as much of it as possible before your movers arrive. Full transparency and insight into your project will help your movers plan accordingly and ensure your expectations are met. Feel free to reach out to our team of professionals as our services can manage the gamut of junk removal needs. Contact Olympia for a free quote today!