JD Power and associates did a consumer satisfaction survey on big moving companies and Mayflower came out best. What was really interesting about the Mercury News article was that they also mentioned a site called movingscam.com that we recommend a lot. A quote from the article;

“If you’re going to hire a big, full-service moving company, Mayflower Transit looks like your best bet.”

Before you rule Mark the Mover out for your move, we are too small a company to be included in their survey. We are, among Georgia based moving companies, in the top eight. So we try harder. But my real point is that this survey of moving companies concentrated most of their focus on long distance moving companies. There were a few local moving companies mentioned but the best they did was average. At Mark the Mover, we get a lot of repeat moving business because we do a great job for our moving customers.

Now don’t get me wrong, not every customer that has ever called Mark the Mover is happy, in fact some never use us, because they think they are getting a better deal somewhere else. But we try to charge a fair price and do an excellent job. And unlike the many low price moving scams on the internet, we refuse to joim the race to cut prices and service in a challenging economy. But I don’t want to talk about all the games played, you can find out more about that at movingscam.com

New Moving Company Reviews Startup from Homefinder.com

A new Moving Company Reviews has started at moving waldo which we learned about at an American Moving and Storage Association trade show. The moving review site will get traffic from Homefinder.com and will screen reviews with the Bill of Lading number, allowing consumers to be certain that the reviews are real, and from consumers that really used the moving company in question. Relocation reviewers are still in the beta stage, yet in our latest conversations they said that they had worked closely with regulators in the state of Florida to insure moving companies complied with state and local regulations, an excellent first step for consumers to avoid companies that specialize in hostage loads and low-ball estimates to hook the moving customer, only to provide an expensive and poor quality service.

From Reuters and Yahoo, existing home sales fell in April 2023, but narrowly missed a number guessed at by economists in a Reuters poll. Here are the facts:

• U.S. existing home sales declined for the second consecutive month in April, potentially delaying the housing market recovery. The National Association of Realtors reported a 3.4% drop in existing home sales to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.28 million units in April.
• Economists polled by Reuters had predicted a decrease to a rate of 4.30 million units.
• On a year-on-year basis, home resales plummeted by 23.2% in April.
• The Federal Reserve’s aggressive monetary policy tightening, with higher mortgage rates, has significantly impacted the housing market.
• The average rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage was 6.35% last week, higher than the previous year’s 5.30% but down from a peak of 7.08% in November, the highest since 2002.
• Limited housing supply is making it challenging for potential buyers to take advantage of lower mortgage rates. Homeowners are living longer in their properties due to the still-high mortgage rates, resulting in persistently tight housing supply.
• Shortages of building materials, including transformers, have slowed down the completion of new homes. Tightening credit conditions could further hinder builders’ ability to finance new projects.
• The median price of existing houses fell 1.7% to $388,800 in April compared to the previous year. However, price gains were reported in the Northeast and Midwest regions.
• Lawrence Yun, the NAR’s chief economist, noted that roughly half of the country is experiencing price gains, even in markets with lower prices.
• There were 1.04 million previously owned homes on the market in April, a 1.0% increase from the previous year.
• At the current sales pace, it would take 2.9 months to exhaust the existing inventory of homes, up from 2.2 months a year ago. A healthy balance between supply and demand is typically considered to be a four-to-seven-month supply.
• Properties remained on the market for an average of 22 days in April, down from 29 days in March. Approximately 73% of homes sold in April were on the market for less than a month.
• First-time buyers accounted for 29% of sales, up from 28% the previous year.
• All-cash sales represented 28% of transactions, while distressed sales, including foreclosures, made up only 1% of transactions.
• Regionally, home sales declined in all four regions: Northeast, Midwest, South, and West.
• Home sales in the Northeast fell 1.9% from March and 23.9% from April 2022 levels. The median price in the Northeast increased by 2.8% to $422,700 compared to the previous year.
• Sales in the Midwest decreased by 1.9% from the previous month and 21.5% from the prior year. The median price in the Midwest rose by 1.8% to $287,300 from April 2022.
• The South saw a 3.4% decline in sales from March and a 20.2% decrease from the previous year. The median price in the South dropped by 0.6% to $357,900 compared to April 2022.
• In the West, sales dropped 6.1% from the previous month and 31.3% from the previous year. The median price in the West fell by 8.0% to $578,200 compared to April 2022.
• The shortage of homes for sale has boosted confidence among single-family homebuilders, as more buyers turn to the new-home market. In April, over a third of homes on the market were new construction, compared to the typical share of 13%.
• The scarcity of housing stock is primarily due to the mortgage rate trap, with homeowners reluctant to sell as it would result in higher borrowing costs. Approximately 83% of homeowners have mortgages with rates below 5%, while the average rate on a 30-year mortgage has remained above 6% since mid-September.

Existing home sales fall again in April amid continued inventory woes

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/existing-home-sales-fall-again-in-april-amid-continued-inventory-woes-140207284.html

US Existing-Home Sales Fall to Three-Month Low, While Prices Retreat

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/us-existing-home-sales-fall-140745956.html

This Kennesaw museum called the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History is generally open between 9:30 and 5pm on Tuesday through Saturday.

Read more at Big Shanty Steam Museum

Click on map for Google Maps

Using a VPN can help you in a few ways.

• Access to more content. Netflix has different libraries of content in different countries. This is because the company has different licensing agreements for different countries. By using a VPN, you can connect to a server in a different country and access that country’s Netflix library.
• Bypass geo-restrictions. Netflix sometimes blocks access to certain content in certain countries. This is usually due to copyright restrictions. By using a VPN, you can connect to a server in a different country and bypass these geo-restrictions.
• Increased privacy. When you use a VPN, your internet traffic is encrypted. This means that your ISP cannot see what you are doing online. This can be useful if you are concerned about your privacy.

However, it is important to note that Netflix is constantly working to block VPNs. This means that you may need to try different VPNs or servers in order to find one that works. Additionally, some VPNs may not be able to unblock all of the content that you want to watch.

If you are considering using a VPN with Netflix, I recommend doing some research to find a reputable VPN service. You should also test the VPN with Netflix before you subscribe to a service.

Device Specific VPN

There are many VPNs available for the Amazon Fire Stick. Some of the most popular VPNs for Fire Stick include:

• ExpressVPN
• NordVPN
• CyberGhost
• Surfshark
• Private Internet Access

These VPNs offer a variety of features, including:

• Fast speeds
• Secure connections
• Access to geo-restricted content
• Easy to use

To install a VPN on your Fire Stick, you can follow these steps:

1. Go to the Amazon App Store.
2. Search for the VPN that you want to install.
3. Click on the “Install” button.
4. Once the VPN is installed, open it and sign in to your account.
5. Select a server location and connect to it.

Once you are connected to a VPN server, your Fire Stick will be able to access geo-restricted content. You can also use a VPN to protect your privacy and security online.

It is possible to implement a VPN that covers the whole house including wifi. There are a few different ways to do this.

One way is to use a VPN router. A VPN router is a router that has a VPN built-in. When you connect your devices to the VPN router, they will automatically be connected to the VPN.

Another way to implement a VPN is to use a VPN server. A VPN server is a computer that is connected to the internet and has a VPN running on it. You can connect to the VPN server from your devices using the VPN client software.

If you have a small home network, you can use a VPN router. However, if you have a large home network, you may need to use a VPN server.

Here are the steps on how to implement a VPN that covers the whole house including wifi:

1. Choose a VPN provider. There are many different VPN providers available. Do some research to find a provider that meets your needs.
2. Purchase a VPN router or set up a VPN server. If you are using a VPN router, simply connect it to your modem and configure it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you are using a VPN server, you will need to install the VPN software on the server and configure it according to the VPN provider’s instructions.
3. Connect your devices to the VPN. Once the VPN is set up, you can connect your devices to the VPN. If you are using a VPN router, your devices will automatically be connected to the VPN when they connect to the router. If you are using a VPN server, you will need to connect to the VPN using the VPN client software.

Once your devices are connected to the VPN, all of your traffic will be encrypted and routed through the VPN server. This will protect your privacy and security online.

Here are some of the benefits of implementing a VPN that covers the whole house including wifi:

• Increased privacy: When you use a VPN, your internet traffic is encrypted. This means that your ISP cannot see what you are doing online. This can be useful if you are concerned about your privacy.
• Increased security: A VPN can help to protect you from cyber attacks. When you use a VPN, your traffic is routed through a secure server. This can help to protect you from hackers and other online threats.
• Access to geo-restricted content: A VPN can help you to access geo-restricted content. For example, if you are in the United States and you want to watch a British TV show, you can use a VPN to connect to a server in the United Kingdom. This will allow you to watch the show as if you were in the UK.
• Improved performance: A VPN can sometimes improve your internet performance. This is because a VPN can help to reduce latency and improve packet loss.

If you are looking for a way to increase your privacy, security, and access to geo-restricted content, then implementing a VPN that covers the whole house including wifi is a good option.

To install a VPN for a DD-WRT router, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Choose a VPN provider. There are many different VPN providers available. Do some research to find a provider that meets your needs.
2. Download the VPN configuration files. Once you have chosen a VPN provider, you will need to download the VPN configuration files. These files will contain the information that your router needs to connect to the VPN.
3. Log in to your router. You will need to log in to your router using a web browser. The login credentials are usually located on the bottom of your router.
4. Navigate to the VPN settings. Once you are logged in to your router, you will need to navigate to the VPN settings. The location of these settings may vary depending on the make and model of your router.
5. Upload the VPN configuration files. Once you have found the VPN settings, you will need to upload the VPN configuration files. These files will usually have a .ovpn or .conf extension.
6. Configure the VPN settings. Once you have uploaded the VPN configuration files, you will need to configure the VPN settings. This may involve entering the VPN username and password, as well as the VPN server address.
7. Save the settings and restart the router. Once you have configured the VPN settings, you will need to save the settings and restart the router. Once the router has restarted, you should be connected to the VPN.

If you have any problems installing a VPN for your DD-WRT router, you can consult the DD-WRT documentation or contact the VPN provider for support.

TikTok VPN

Relocating a hot tub can be a bad idea for several reasons.

1. It can be a very difficult and expensive process, especially if the new location requires significant modifications to the electrical or plumbing systems.
2. Moving a hot tub can cause damage to the unit, which may require costly repairs.
3. The hot tub may not function properly in the new location due to differences in climate or environmental factors.
4. Moving a hot tub can be dangerous, as the unit is heavy and can cause injury if not handled correctly.

What does it cost to move a hot tub

Relocating a hot tub can be a dumb idea for several reasons. Firstly, it can be a very difficult and expensive process, especially if the new location requires significant modifications to the electrical or plumbing systems. Secondly, moving a hot tub can cause damage to the unit, which may require costly repairs. Thirdly, the hot tub may not function properly in the new location due to differences in climate or environmental factors. Finally, moving a hot tub can be dangerous, as the unit is heavy and can cause injury if not handled correctly.

How much do second hand hot tubs cost

The cost of a used hot tub can vary widely depending on several factors, including the age, condition, brand, and features of the hot tub. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars for a used hot tub, with the average price typically falling in the range of $1,000 to $2,500. However, keep in mind that buying a used hot tub comes with some risks, and it’s important to thoroughly inspect the hot tub and have it professionally serviced before making a purchase to ensure it is in good working order. Additionally, the cost of transporting the hot tub to your location and any installation or repair costs should also be factored in when considering the overall cost of a used hot tub.

How much do new hot tubs cost with installation

The cost of a new hot tub including installation can vary significantly depending on several factors, such as the size, brand, features, and location of the hot tub installation. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $3,000 to $20,000 or more for a new hot tub with installation.

The installation costs may include several factors such as electrical work, plumbing work, and site preparation. Some hot tubs require a concrete pad to be installed before the unit can be placed, which can add to the overall cost. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with any necessary permits or inspections required by local building codes.

Was moving a hot tub ever featured on the show Shipping Wars

Yes, moving a hot tub was featured on the reality television show “Shipping Wars” which aired on A&E from 2012 to 2015. The show followed independent shippers who transported unusual and sometimes difficult-to-ship items, including a hot tub in one episode. The shippers competed to see who could transport the item for the lowest cost and in the shortest amount of time. While the show was primarily entertainment, it did offer a glimpse into the challenges and complexities of transporting large and unwieldy items like hot tubs.

As to the hot tub, the shipper got stuck with the hot tub, because it was a bargaining chip in a messy divorce and one of the parties just wanted to get the hot tub out of her yard.

Was a hot tub ever part of a detective tv show

Yes, a hot tub was part of a detective TV show called “Californication.” “Californication” was an American comedy-drama television series that aired from 2007 to 2014. The show followed the character Hank Moody, a struggling writer in Los Angeles, and his various escapades. In one episode, Hank is hired to investigate the disappearance of a famous record producer’s girlfriend, and the investigation leads him to a party at the producer’s mansion, where he discovers a woman’s body floating in a hot tub. The hot tub becomes an important part of the investigation, and the story unfolds from there.

How should furniture be protected before it is place in long term storage?

Furniture should be protected before it is placed in long-term household goods storage by following these steps:

1. Clean and dry the furniture thoroughly.
2. Wrap each piece in clean, protective material such as furniture pads, plastic wrap, or bubble wrap.
3. Cover legs and other exposed areas with additional protective material to prevent scratching.
4. Label boxes or drawers that contain smaller items or parts to ensure that everything stays organized.
5. Store the furniture in a dry, temperature-controlled space to prevent warping, cracking, or other damage caused by extreme temperatures or humidity.

By taking these precautions, you can ensure that your furniture stays in good condition while it is in storage.

Warning about plastic and bubble wrap

Plastic wrap can stick to wood furniture, including antiques, but it can also damage the finish of the piece over time. Plastic wrap is not a recommended material for wrapping furniture, especially antiques, as it can trap moisture against the surface and cause the wood to deteriorate or discolor. It is better to use furniture pads or blankets to wrap the piece and provide cushioning, as these materials are less likely to cause damage. Additionally, you should consider using a protective covering, such as a dust cover, to keep the furniture protected while in storage.

Are there any special moving pads for protecting wood furniture in storage?

Yes, there are special moving pads available for protecting wood furniture in storage. These pads are typically made of quilted fabric or a soft, cushioning material and are designed to protect the surface of the furniture from scratches, dents, and other types of damage that can occur during storage or transport. Some moving pads also feature a waterproof or moisture-resistant layer to provide additional protection against moisture damage.

When choosing moving pads for your wood furniture, it’s important to consider the size and shape of your pieces, as well as their weight, to ensure that the pads you choose will provide the necessary level of protection. You may also want to consider purchasing specialized furniture pads for delicate or antique pieces, as these are more likely to be affected by scratches or other types of damage.

Moving and Storage Services Atlanta

Protect your furniture in storage.