6 Things to Consider Before Buying a Vacation Home

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Buying a vacation home is a dream for many, however it is not a decision that you can make on a whim. It is a major decision in your life that requires a lot of planning. Having a second home has multiple benefits; it is a place where you can make lifetime memories with your family and friends. 

A vacation home is a place of solace where you can spend your vacations without worrying about any work-related tasks. But, similar to going on a vacation, buying a vacation home also takes a lot of consideration. Here is a list of things that you must prioritize when making a purchase.

1. Weighing Down the Pros and Cons

Buying a vacation home may be on top of your list for quite some time but it is a decision that has its own pros and cons. Some of the pros that you can consider include:

• Getting another source of passive income stream by renting it out.

• It saves you money as you do not have to spend money on renting out homes and hotels for your next vacation.

• It is a sort of investment that will increase with time. 

• Having a vacation home is a perfect place to retire. 

On the downside, here are a few things that are quite the opposite:

• Having a vacation home adds additional expenses to your monthly budget. You would have to maintain it regularly which takes time and effort too.

• You must have to prepare for a hefty downpayment if you plan to own a property. 

2. Where Do You Want Your Vacation Home to Be?

According to the Home Attitude Report 2022, location is the primary factor when people think of buying their second home. Deciding on the location of your vacation home always helps to narrow down the search. Ask yourself; Do you wish to have a home in the mountains or by the sea? Do you wish for a moderate climate all year round or having extreme climates does not bother you? Do you want to have a place of calm and serenity or someplace near the city noise? 

All these questions will help you think of a place where you would like to spend your vacations. After you have decided on your location, you can then look for real estate advisors who can help you sort out the perfect vacation home. These days, Mexico is a hot spot among expats specifically the region of Chelem, Yucatan Peninsula. It is best known for its clear blue beaches and peaceful surroundings. Many foreigners prefer to stay in the region for vacation, and there are plenty of affordable Chelem Mexico homes for sale that you can look into. 

3. Are You Prepared to Take on More Responsibility?

Buying a vacation home may sound dreamy for many but people are often reluctant to purchase one. The reason is that buying a vacation home adds to the responsibility of the owner. You must think of all those extra time and financial commitments that your vacation home may need time and time again. 

You will have to outsource day to day management of your vacation home to a property management company. Additionally, if you plan to rent out your property to gain an extra income, the maintenance cost can go higher.

4. Think about Your Current Lifestyle

Your current financial and lifestyle status plays an important role in the decision-making process. Think about your current lifestyle; do you go on vacation annually or bi-annually? Will you be happy with going on vacations to the same place every time? If the answer to these questions is no, then you must rethink your decision to buy a vacation home. 

5. What Type of Home Do You Prefer?

Think about what type of home you would like to live in for your vacations. If you have a large family then you can think of purchasing a property with several rooms. On the other hand, if you have a smaller family then a cozy cottage would suit you well. When thinking about the home type, also think about the type of gatherings you would want to have at your second home. Will it be used for a private getaway? Or will you be hosting brunches and dinners for the entire family? 

If you do not find one that fits all your requirements, you can always buy a property and build your customized vacation home. Building a vacation home gives you the liberty of designing the entire space according to your preferences. You can set the theme according to what you want and even set up the extra amenities according to your requirements.

6. Are You up for the Extra Amenities?

Not every vacation home will have access to amenities and you must decide on what you prioritize. Are you a family or a couple who just want to relax in their second home or are you looking for fun activities? For example, there are a few vacation homes that come with club memberships that allow you to enjoy five-star dining, a swimming pool, and much more. 

Then, some homes are close to golf courses and if you are an avid golf player then such vacation homes would be heaven for you. Therefore, it is always best to ask about the amenities that come with your second home and then go forward with what you like the most. 

Conclusion

Buying a vacation home can seem like a stressful process. But if you have all your plans and decisions sorted out then it could easily turn into a smooth process. You may have to discuss all the options with your realtor including the budget you have. Remember to never feel forced to make a purchase decision. Always take your time and consider all the pros and cons before taking this big step.

Uncovering the Rich History of Chicago Through Travel

We partnered with a real estate company for this post. The opinions in the post are honest. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.

Chicago, also known as the Windy City, is a dynamic metropolis where rich history meets vibrant culture. From its humble beginnings as a frontier town to its current status as a global hub, Chicago's rich history and innovative spirit offer travelers a fascinating chance to explore its greatness.

Discover how Chicago's iconic landmarks, pioneering achievements, and resilient citizens have shaped the city into one of the world’s most captivating travel destinations, where tradition and progress coexist harmoniously. As you embark on this historical journey, this detailed article will guide you in uncovering the rich history of Chicago, revealing why it's one of the most sought-after travel destinations globally.

Uncover the Rich History of Chicago Through Travel

1. Everything You Need to Know About Chicago’s Origins

Early History:

• The story of Chicago begins with Fort Dearborn, the installation of the fort near Lake Michigan by American military forces in 1803, which served both as a military outpost and a commercial center.

• Recognizing this historical site as a starting point, one can learn more about Chicago’s beginnings through its markers and statues, which commemorate those early days. 

Great Chicago Fire and Rebuilding:

• The great Chicago Fire in 1871 truly transformed the city, leading to a massive rebuilding effort and the creation of a modern metropolis.

• To study about the fire's impact and city's resilience, visit the Chicago Fire Department at the training academy and also understand the lessons learned from this historical event.

From Ashes to Skyscrapers: Chicago's Architectural Renaissance

Birth of New Era in Architecture:

The Great Chicagi fire in 1871 could have devastated the city, but instead it paved the way for a revolutionary era in architecture. This fire gave birth to the world’s first true skyscraper which was called Home Insurance Building whose history dates back to 1885, but currently does’nt exist anymore. 

However, its legacy lives on through other historic skyscrapers like the Chicago Building and the Monadnock Building, which still awe visitors with their pioneering design.  

Chicago School of Architecture:

The Chicago School of Architecture revolutionized urban design by utilizing structural steel frames and expansive plate-glass windows in a novel way. Visit famous buildings in the The Loop neighborhood to feel the influence of this style, like:

• The Rookery (Hotel or apartment building)

• Auditorium Building 

The Chicago School of Architecture permanently altered the city's skyline and solidified its standing as a center of innovation and advancement, as these landmarks demonstrate.

Cultural and Social Evolution: Chicago's Vibrant Heritage

Chicago’s cultural and social evolution has undergone significant changes as a result of events that shaped it. 

This includes:

• The World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893, also known as the “White City”, was a major turning point that made Chicago internationally known through innovations and landmarks that still inspire awe today.

• Moreover, the Museum of Science and Industry has some remaining buildings from the fair, allowing visitors to revisit history.

• The rise of some of the finest writers, artists and musicians in the early 20th century saw a cultural renaissance in this city, giving birth to Bronzeville.

• Here you can visit sites such as Gwendolyn Brooks and Louis Armstrong signs at the Bronzeville Walk of Fame and Chicago Bee Building respectively to learn about its rich heritage.

The Enduring Legacy of Chicago's Civil Rights and Social Movements

Chicago’s civil rights and social movements have left an incredible mark on history, shaped by significant events and courageous activists. 

• The Haymarket Affair of 1886 was a landmark event in the labor movement, inspiring a global struggle for worker's rights and social justice.

• Visit the West Loop to pay tribute to this ongoing struggle. In addition, the city played a crucial role in the Civil Rights Movement wherein Dr Martin Luther King Jr together with local activists led the charge against economic injustices and segregation.

• This Chicago Freedom movement's legacy serves to remind us of our progress towards equality and human rights, commemorated at sites like Martin Luther King Jr Living Memorial located in Marquette Park.

Modern Day Chicago:

Chicago's visual landscape pays homage to its rich history while exhibiting the city's evolution through an eye-catching tapestry of color and creativity. 

• Famous examples of this fusion of art, architecture, and community are the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park and Anish Kapoor's "Cloud Gate" (The Bean).

• The people of Chicago's long-standing relationship with their rivers is further demonstrated by the revitalized Chicago Riverwalk, which provides a picturesque riverfront walkway surrounded by contemporary buildings and historic sites. 

• Chicago's dedication to neighborhood projects is unwavering as the city innovates and gets more urbanized, guaranteeing that it stays a world-class hub.

Discovering Chicago: The Ultimate Travel Guide

When you stroll through Chicago, it's like taking a journey back in time, where every street and building tells a story. The city’s rich history unfolds through guided walking tours and boat trips focused on architecture, revealing how a humble trading post evolved into a global metropolis.

Art enthusiasts can experience the real Chicago by visiting famous places such as the Art Institute of Chicago, featuring world-class exhibitions and performances. Meanwhile, the wide range of culinary options available in this town will amaze every foodie. This includes everything from delicious deep-dish pizzas to unique international dishes.

As you explore the vibrant city, you’ll find a place that proudly honors its heritage while embracing the future - a true embodiment of enthusiasm and stability earning its nickname, the windy city.

Chicago Movers: Your Trusted Moving Partners for Smooth Relocation 

To uncover the rich history of Chicago, opting for reliable movers is the best option. If you’re traveling to Chicago for a short trip or seeking a place to move in completely, the city’s busy streets and varied neighborhoods can leave you confused and that’s where Chicago Movers come into play, assisting you with relocation in an expert manner.

Following are their main features:

• Local Knowledge: 

Chicago movers have a thorough understanding of the city’s geography, traffic flow, as well as the various neighborhoods. 

Therefore, whether you are moving into a downtown apartment or a suburban house, their local knowledge guarantees an efficient and trouble-free relocation process.

• Full-Service Options: 

They provide full moving services ranging from packing to loading and transportation, as well as unpacking which are tailored to fit your requirements. Also, they take care of everything else, so that you can concentrate on settling into your new environment.

• Safety of Your Possessions: 

The main focus of professional movers is ensuring that your belongings are safe. With specialized tools and trained staff members, they ensure that your possessions are treated with utmost care. This makes sure that your belongings arrive at their respective destinations without any damage at all.

• Time and Cost Effectiveness: 

By partnering with reputable Chicago moving company, you will save your time, labor and money by enjoying a seamless and efficient moving. Their expert crew streamlines the moving process, minimizing the risk for any loss or damage.

• Peace of Mind:

With professional movers by your side, you can rest knowing that every aspect of your move is handled with great care and precision. 

Their Chicago-based relocation experts always got you covered, letting you focus on new beginnings. Trust them to handle your move professionally!

Conclusion:

Exploring Chicago's rich history is a truly enlightening experience. As you delve deeper into its city's evolution from a humble trading center to becoming a world-renowned metropolis, you'll discover a fascinating story.

When visiting or moving to Chicago, take comfort in knowing that Chicago movers are dedicated to ensuring a stress-free journey. 

From iconic landmarks in Chicago to its lovely neighborhoods, their expert team ensures a smooth transition. You can start creating unforgettable memories in your new space. Have fun!

Preparing Your Timeshare for Sale - A Step-by-Step Checklist

Selling a timeshare can be a strategic decision for many owners. Whether you’re looking to reduce your financial commitments, no longer use the property, or simply want to liquidate your asset, selling a timeshare can provide relief and potential financial gain. However, the process can be complex and requires careful preparation and understanding of the market. Knowing the right steps to take can make the process smoother and more successful.

This article provides a step-by-step checklist to help you prepare your timeshare for sale effectively. 

1. Evaluate Your Timeshare

The first step in preparing your timeshare for sale is to evaluate its value. Understanding what your timeshare is worth in the current market is crucial. Start by gathering detailed information about your property, such as its location, the amenities it offers, and the specifics of your ownership. Knowing whether your timeshare is a fixed-week, floating-week, or points-based ownership can also impact its value. Additionally, consider the reputation and demand for the resort where your timeshare is located, as these factors can significantly influence pricing.

Consulting with experts can provide valuable insights during this evaluation phase. However, it’s advised only to approach the most reliable company that has ample experience in timeshares. When looking for the best company to sell timeshare investments, Timeshares Only is undeniably incomparable. They can help you understand the market value and provide guidance on pricing. They have the expertise to evaluate all aspects of your timeshare and offer recommendations to position your property attractively in the market. Utilizing professional expertise ensures that you have a realistic understanding of your timeshare’s value, which is essential for setting an appropriate asking price.

2. Gather Essential Documents

Having all the necessary documents in order is a critical step in the timeshare selling process. Potential buyers and legal entities will need to review various documents to ensure the legitimacy and details of the sale. Essential documents include the deed to your timeshare, recent maintenance fee records, and any membership agreements or contracts associated with your ownership. These documents provide proof of ownership and outline the terms and conditions of your timeshare, which are important for transparency and legal purposes.

Organizing these documents beforehand can save time and prevent potential delays during the selling process. Ensure that all paperwork is up-to-date and easily accessible. If any documents are missing, contact your resort or timeshare management company to obtain copies. Having a complete set of documents ready shows potential buyers that you are prepared and professional, which can increase their confidence in purchasing your timeshare.

3. Set a Realistic Price

Setting a realistic price for your timeshare is crucial for attracting potential buyers. Research the current market to understand what similar timeshares are selling for. Factors that influence pricing include the location of your timeshare, the season or time of year it is available, and the overall condition and amenities of the property. Look at listings for comparable timeshares to get an idea of the going rates, and consider setting a competitive price to attract more interest.

Flexibility in pricing can also be beneficial. While it's important to aim for a price that reflects your timeshare's value, being open to negotiation can help you close the sale more quickly. Keep in mind that the timeshare resale market can be competitive, and potential buyers often look for deals. Setting a fair and attractive price not only makes your timeshare more appealing but also increases the likelihood of a quicker sale. 

4. Prepare the Property for Sale

Presenting your timeshare in the best possible light is essential to attracting buyers. Just like selling a home, the appearance and condition of your timeshare can significantly influence a buyer's decision. Start by thoroughly cleaning the property. Ensure that every room is spotless, and consider hiring professional cleaners if necessary. Pay attention to details such as carpets, windows, and bathrooms, as cleanliness can leave a lasting impression.

In addition to cleaning, consider making minor repairs and improvements to enhance the property's appeal. Fix any issues such as leaky faucets, broken tiles, or scuffed walls. Staging the property can also make a big difference. Arrange furniture to showcase the space effectively and add some decorative touches to make it feel welcoming. Take high-quality photos and possibly create a virtual tour to provide potential buyers with a clear and attractive view of the property online.

5. Market Your Timeshare

Effective marketing is crucial to reaching potential buyers. Utilize various platforms to list your timeshare and attract interest. Online listings on timeshare resale websites, social media platforms, and real estate sites can increase visibility. Make sure your listing includes detailed descriptions and highlights the best features of your timeshare, such as location, amenities, and any recent upgrades.

Crafting a compelling listing description is key. Emphasize what makes your timeshare unique and why it’s a great investment. Use descriptive language to paint a picture of the experience buyers can expect. If possible, seek the help of a professional photographer to take appealing photos of your property. The visual appeal of your listing can significantly impact the level of interest it generates. Consider also working with a real estate agent who specializes in timeshare sales to broaden your reach and leverage their expertise in marketing your property.

6. Negotiate and Close the Sale

Once you start receiving inquiries, be prepared to negotiate with potential buyers. Respond promptly to questions and provide any additional information they may need. Be open to discussions about the price and terms of the sale, and be ready to make concessions if it means securing a deal. Effective communication and flexibility can help move the process forward and make buyers feel more comfortable.

When you reach an agreement with a buyer, the closing process begins. Draft a sales agreement that outlines the terms and conditions of the sale. This agreement should include details such as the purchase price, payment terms, and any contingencies. It’s advisable to seek legal advice to ensure the contract is comprehensive and legally binding. Finally, the transfer of ownership should be handled through the appropriate legal channels. This process may involve working with a title company or a lawyer to ensure all paperwork is correctly completed and the transaction is officially recorded.

Conclusion

Selling a timeshare requires careful preparation and strategic planning. By evaluating your timeshare's value, gathering essential documents, setting a realistic price, preparing the property for sale, marketing it effectively, and negotiating and closing the sale properly, you can streamline the process and increase your chances of success. Thorough preparation ensures that you can present your timeshare confidently to potential buyers and navigate the selling process with ease. Following this checklist can help you achieve a smooth and successful sale, allowing you to move forward with your financial goals.

Worry-Free Vacation: 7 Things to Do Before You Leave Your House for Vacation

We can’t blame ourselves for getting too excited to leave the house for a vacation, especially if we have waited for it for months, sometimes even years.

The only danger about this is that we tend to forget important things that involve our household. No matter how much we hate to admit it, there are things that we take for granted just because we’re looking forward to the days we can spend a relaxing time at the beach or at a foreign city.

Picking the best-checked luggage for this trip shouldn’t be our only priority.

Of course, coming back to your neglected home after a fun vacation time has never been a good feeling. After a long day of traveling, you just want to lie on your bed and get a good night’s sleep, but that’ not going to happen if you still have a dirty home waiting to be tidied up.

To avoid ruining a good trip, make sure you pay attention to the stuff that you are going to leave behind. Here are seven things that you should do before going on vacation:

1. Clean your home

This is practically the most important thing that you should never forget. To come home to a dirty house after a wonderful trip is tantamount to a lot of disappointments.

I mean, who wouldn’t be deflated to a scene such as that?

But after all, what would you expect? You left it brimming with dirt and dust so don’t expect it to magically clean itself while you’re away for vacation.

After you pack your stuff, the next thing that you should do is to start tidying up your place. I’m sure after you’ve picked out your outfits, you would need to do a lot of reorganizing. Don’t leave a sad pile of clothes lying on your bed.

2. Take out the trash

No one wants to come back to a bad-smelling home. The simple gesture of putting out your trash before you leave your house is one sign that you’re a responsible homeowner ‒ not that we’re judging those who forget to do it.

Besides, leaving your trash swarming with flies and other pests could be a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses — and that’s not what you would want to expect after a relaxing getaway.

Don’t expect someone else to do the job for you. Do it on your own, and you can enjoy the rest of your vacation without worrying about it.

3. Wash the dishes

Now, another thing that you should pay attention to before turning all the lights off inside your house is whether your sink is clean and empty.

Why? Because leaving dirty dishes on your sink for a couple of days is downright icky and a complete turnoff.

Would you really reuse a plate that’s been left out rotting with remains of the last meal you ate before you leave your house? Honestly, that’s not very hygienic.

Making an effort to schedule household chores like this can save you from the unwanted smell and annoyance that will welcome you right back when you come home.

4. Unplug your electronics

To unplug your electronics before stepping out of your house is not only an energy-efficient move, but it also saves you from the worry of burning your house down while you are miles away.

Spare yourself from the sinking feeling of worrying whether you’ve unplugged a certain appliance in your home or not.

5. Turn off the water supply

Aside from saving electricity and making sure that you don’t turn your house into ashes, you must also pay attention to your water supply.

If you’re going away for a week, turning your main water supply off is another way to conserve it.

There might be leaks within your home that you know nothing about, so as a safety measure, you must make sure that it is turned off.

6. Store valuables in a safe deposit

And since you can’t bring all your valuables during a vacation, keeping them safe while you’re away is a must-do.

If you have a bundle of cold cash sitting around your house, your pieces of jewelry, or anything of value, don’t just leave it as if someone is going to guard it.

Burglars will sweep your house clean with no mercy. This isn’t a Home Alone movie set where Kevin is witty enough to shoo the bad guys away.

A safe deposit will be your trusty friend that will watch over your belongings while you explore a new city in a faraway country.

7. Make sure doors are locked

Lastly, don’t give anyone free access inside your house by leaving it open. I’m pretty sure no one is on that level of absent-mindedness to leave their home wide open for strangers to come in.

Double-check, triple-check if you must, that all your doors and windows are locked, and your alarm system is up and going.

Conclusion

These are all just stern reminders on the things that you should do before jet setting across the globe. These tips are also a guarantee that you still have a house to go home to when you come back.

While most of them may sound obvious, you should never take them for granted. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself after you’ve accomplished all the items mentioned above.

Now, if you’ve got everything covered, you can finally wish yourself a good vacation ahead!

Author Bio:Kate Manning is passionate about home improvement and interior decoration. When not at work, you'll see her running around the neighborhood to prepare for any upcoming local marathon.