Published July 29, 2022
Organization Tips for Homeowners With Multi-State Living Arrangements
Managing one home is
challenging, especially when you have a pet. Make that two homes in different states, and your challenges more
than double. Fortunately, planning can ease commuting between your homes for
you and your pet. Here are the best organization tips for pet owners with two
or more homes in different states.
Keeping Your Pet Happy
When your pet lives in more
than one home, make sure it's comfortable in each house. Create a pet-friendly
zone in each home, and place items it needs in them — a pet bed, cage, or
harness. If your pet likes a particular toy, buy one for each home.
Find a vet clinic in each
state that accepts your pet insurance. Your veterinarian can also recommend essential
products your pet will need. You can also find helpful pet
care advice from online sources.
Secure Your Homes
Security is vital when you’re
away from one of your homes. Because you're not always present, consider
installing security systems for each house. When moving between homes, remove
outdoor furniture and other items that could get stolen. You don’t want
potential burglars to know you aren’t home, so think about installing automatic lights
that turn on in the evening, indicating you’re in. When you move, halt
newspaper subscriptions and mail deliveries. Piled-up newspapers at your front
door are a clear sign you're away.
Research Your Insurance Options
While you can protect your
homes against security threats, it's also important to protect them from the
weather. If one of your homes is in a storm-prone region or state like Florida,
it helps to get a homeowners insurance
policy. Home insurance covers property damages resulting from extreme weather,
burglary, and vandalism. The cost and coverage differ for different locations
and insurance policies. Not all insurance policies cover vacant homes, and some
may cover your vacant home but charge you higher premiums. Explore the best
insurance policies for both locations.
Pet insurance is also a must, especially if you want to
give your pet the best quality of life. This way, you’re not slapped with a
massive vet bill should your pet feel poorly. You have options when it comes to pet insurance,
so take the time to do the research to find the coverage that suits your budget
and your pet’s needs.
Prepare for the Unexpected
Emergency preparation is also
vital when you live in more than one home. Keep copies of your medical records
and emergency numbers in each home. Also, stock up on non-perishables to eat
when you commute, as you may be too tired to buy food.
Organize Your Finances
Keeping track of your utility
bills for both homes can be overwhelming. Consider setting up automatic bill
payments. Most states charge property taxes
semiannually, so keeping copies of relevant tax documents in both homes is best
to avoid forgetting to file your taxes.
You can save money by getting
auto, health, and pet
insurance in the state with cheaper options. Avoid paying double cable costs by
streaming your entertainment options. Always inform your insurance company when
you move from one home to another. Otherwise, it may deny your compensation
claim if something happens while you're away.
Make the Best of Your Multi-State Living Arrangement
Living between two homes is less stressful when you live in homes you love and apply these organizational tips. Connect with Fred Amendola of Keller Williams Realty to find your dream home in Erie, PA or connect you with a Keller Williams Realty real estate professional in any of our 50 states and 55 countries!
Kristin Louis
