Important Steps to Take When Purchasing a New Property

Finding a new home, whether you are a first-time buyer or a seasoned mover, can be a very exciting experience. That being said, there is no doubt that it can be tiring and stressful. If you want to make sure that your next move is stress-free and enjoyable then this guide will help you to find a property that suits your needs, with ease.

Finance First

Before you even start to look into properties, you need to look at how you intend to pay for your next home. If you are not a cash buyer then your purchase could well involve you borrowing money via a mortgage. You will also need to make sure that you have enough money available to pay your deposit, which will either be 5% or 10% of the purchase price. When the time comes for you to get your finances in order, it’s wise for you to sit down and have a chat with a financial advisor. They can then assess the amount you can afford to borrow when you apply for the loan. An independent financial advisor will be able to help you to get all of your documentation in order and they can also help you to meet the lender’s requirements. The last thing you want is to find a property that you love and then not be able to afford it because of a financial mistake.

Get your Home on the Market

If you intend on buying a property, you may need to sell the home you have right now before you can move. Some may think that you need to find a property you’re willing to buy before you list yours on the market but you should avoid this at all costs. If your home isn’t up for sale when you find your next purchase then you may not be able to secure it quickly. You may also notice that any offer you do put in, is subjective to the sale of your own property and some sellers will not want to sell to you if this is the case. Putting your home on the market before you get serious about starting the search for your next property will help out a lot here, so be mindful of this and take steps to protect your investment.

Identify what you Need

When you have a solid idea of how much you can afford, it is then wise for you to start looking for a home that meets the criteria that you have. It doesn’t matter whether you have a dealbreaker in mind or whether you have a list of nice-to-haves, because this will help you to find out what is important to you.  A lot of property sites will give you the chance to filter properties and this is great, but at the same time, you need to be mindful of closing yourself off too much.

Give Yourself the Edge

You can probably access a lot of online tools when it comes to your property search and this is great, but at the same time, you need to make sure that you are looking at different sites. The main reason for this is because some properties will only be listed through certain sites, so you need to get your enquires in early.  If you only ever use one site when conducting your property search then this will work against you and this is the last thing you want. Agents often have a lot of buyers waiting for properties as well, so make sure that you show how keen you are and make yourself as appealing as possible.

Sorting the List

After you have gotten started with your property search, it’s likely that in a matter of hours, you will have a pile of homes to go through. To make things even more manageable, it helps to work out which ones meet the requirements you have set out. If you can do this then you can then find out which ones could be worth viewing. To avoid losing track of what you are interested in and why, you can set up an Excel spreadsheet showing you your options and their current status. When you go for a viewing, don’t do too many properties in one day either. If you try and fit too much in the day then you may find that you end up forgetting details and this is the last thing you need. If you want to find accommodation because you have an addiction, then Real Deal Sober Living are a great option. 

First Impressions

When viewing a property, you have to remember that first impressions are everything. Take note of whether or not the outside of the home is what you expected, and also have a look at the surrounding properties as well. Do they look to be keeping in line with the area? Look at how busy the road is as well. Little things like this have to be taken into consideration because if you don’t then you may find it even more difficult to make your decision. When you are inside the property, you will need to look at the rooms themselves. Sure, they may be filled with the owner’s furniture but what will the rooms look like if filled with your own? If you can think about things like this then you will be able to get a better idea of the property overall.

So as you can see, there are many things you can do to try and make sure that you get the best result out of your property search and if you follow this guide, you will soon see that it is easier than ever for you to make the right decision. Make sure that you convey what you are looking for to your agent so that they can then keep an eye out for any properties that meet your requirements. This is a great way for you to avoid missing out on anything so keep this in mind. 

Seafood Delight: Discovering the Best Seafood Restaurants in NYC

New York City is a hub for diverse and delicious food options; seafood is no exception. From sushi and ceviche to lobster rolls and clam chowder, there's something for every seafood lover in the city. 

In this blog post, we'll explore the top seafood restaurants in NYC and offer some tips for those new to ordering seafood at restaurants or cooking it at home.

Top 5 Seafood Restaurants in NYC

1. Le Bernardin

Le Bernardin is a three-star Michelin restaurant specializing in seafood cuisine. Their menu features a variety of seafood options, including tuna, lobster, and octopus. The restaurant is known for its elegant atmosphere, impeccable service, and delicious food.

2. Marea

Marea is an Italian seafood restaurant that serves various fresh seafood dishes, including crudo, pasta, and whole fish. The restaurant has a chic and modern atmosphere and is known for its innovative and creative dishes.

3. Grand Banks

Grand Banks is a seasonal oyster bar on a historic wooden schooner in Hudson River Park. The restaurant serves various seafood dishes, including oysters, clams, and lobster rolls. The atmosphere is laid-back and relaxed, with stunning views of the river.

4. Pearl Oyster Bar

Pearl Oyster Bar is a cozy and casual seafood restaurant specializing in lobster rolls. The restaurant serves hot and cold lobster rolls and other seafood dishes like clam chowder and oysters. The friendly and welcoming atmosphere makes it an excellent spot for a casual lunch or dinner.

5. Cull & Pistol

Cull & Pistol is a seafood restaurant in Chelsea Market. The restaurant serves fresh seafood, including lobster, clams, and shrimp. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, focusing on sustainable and locally sourced seafood.

Honorable Mentions

While the above restaurants are some of the top seafood spots in NYC, there are many other great options to explore. Some honorable mentions include the famous The Lobster Club, Aquagrill (who really know how to cook fish on a grill), and The Mermaid Inn. Each of these restaurants has its own unique atmosphere and seafood specialties.

The Chelsea Market is one of the most popular spots for street seafood in New York. The market boasts an impressive selection of seafood vendors, from lobster rolls to sushi. One of the standout vendors is Lobster Place, which offers fresh seafood, including oysters, clams, shrimp, and famous lobster rolls. Another standout vendor is Cull & Pistol, which provides a variety of seafood dishes, including crab cakes and seafood chowder.

Another popular spot for street seafood is the Red Hook Lobster Pound food truck. The truck offers a variety of lobster-based dishes, including lobster rolls, lobster mac and cheese, and lobster bisque. The food truck has gained a cult following in New York, often seen at popular events and festivals throughout the city.

For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, the Grand Central Oyster Bar is a must-visit. The restaurant has been serving fresh seafood since 1913 and is famous for its selection of oysters. The restaurant also offers a variety of seafood dishes, including clam chowder, lobster, and crab cakes.

Finally, for those looking for a more casual experience, the Fish Market at Pier 46 is a great choice. The market offers fresh seafood, including clams, mussels, and shrimp, which can be enjoyed on-site or taken to go. The market also features a raw bar, where customers can enjoy oysters and other raw seafood delicacies.

Tips for Ordering Seafood at Restaurants

If you're new to ordering seafood at restaurants, it can be intimidating. Here are some tips to make the process a little easier:

• Ask the server for recommendations or more information on certain dishes

• Look for seafood dishes that feature seasonal and locally sourced ingredients

• Be mindful of sustainability and choose seafood that is responsibly sourced

• Don't be afraid to ask questions about preparation or cooking methods

Cooking Seafood at Home

If you're interested in cooking seafood at home, there are many great resources available in NYC. One of the best places to buy fresh seafood is the Fulton Fish Market, the largest fish market in the country. Located in the Bronx, the market offers a wide selection of fresh seafood, including fish, shrimp, lobster, and oysters. The market is open to the public from early morning to midday, so arrive early to get the best selection.

Another excellent option for fresh seafood is Citarella, which has multiple locations throughout the city. Citarella is a gourmet market specializing in high-quality seafood, meats, and produce. They offer a variety of fresh seafood, including fish, shellfish, and sushi-grade tuna.

Conclusion

New York City is a seafood lover's paradise, with endless options to explore. Whether you're looking for a Michelin-starred seafood experience or a casual lobster roll, there's something for everyone in the city. Follow our tips for ordering seafood at restaurants and experiment with cooking seafood at home, you can discover even more delicious seafood delights in NYC.

Some Fancy Food Trends for the Summer Season

Since the summer season is just around the corner, it’s time to think about some of the places to visit with friends and some of the things to eat. Each year there are food and drink trends to look out for, and this year is no different. Don’t miss some of the tasty food items in the article below. 

Bubble Tea 

Bubble tea has been around for a few years, but it is still as popular as ever during the warmer months. Nothing beats a trip to the local mall or the coast with friends, followed by a stroll with your favorite bubble tea flavors. The trend isn’t going anywhere once more this summer season. 

For those who don’t know, bubble tea is made using a base of green tea, oolong tea, or black tea. Inside there are some edible bubbles that contain a fruit or candy flavoring of your choice. A thick straw is provided that allows you to suck up the bubbles and add flavor to the cold drink.   

Spicy Jams 

Of course, jam has been popular for generations. In the past, it was a staple in local communities because berries are easy to grow, and jam is simple to make. In recent years there has been a boom in jam popularity since people realized they could design some fun flavors. 

Enter spicy jam, following on the heels of bacon jam and other innovative ideas. These jams can be used in a variety of ways; for instance, they can be used to glaze and marinate meat, but they can also be used conventionally as a spread. Check out tasty flavored jams in summer. 

Beyond Booze 

Again, the low and no-alcohol market has been around for a while now, but there are more new flavors and brand favorites starting to appear. Whether you avoid alcohol or you need an alternative strategy for nights out with friends when you’re driving, zero alcohol products work. 

Guinness has recently released a no-alcohol version of its famous black stout that tastes better than the original, according to some fans. And Guinness isn’t the only one to up their game when it comes to the zero markets; you can find champagnes, wines, and many zero cocktails.

Street Food 

Who doesn’t love street food? Whether it’s on a night out or a day trip, there is nothing better than snacking or stopping for lunch at a street food vendor in a new area. One of the great things about street food is that you can always find something innovative with every vendor. 

Some street food vendors specialize in Italian food, while for others, it’s Asian or Italian. Chances are that street food vendors will specialize in a particular niche, increasing the quality. If you want to try some stress at home, check out this mexican street corn salad recipe. 

Bite-Sized Bakes 

If you love baked goods, keep a close eye out for some of your favorite baked goods brands in miniature form. Brands have noticed that shrinking the products offer customers a healthy snackable alternative to conventional products. They aren’t mistaken about their popularity.

5 Perfect Housewarming Gifts to Help Your Friends Feel at Home Again

So, your loved ones have recently relocated, and you're seeking ways to console them with warm housewarming gifts! Honestly, it is a noble thought. After all, you empathize with them and understand how stressful moving can be.

Change of environment, finding a new school for the kids, and adjusting to the new neighborhood are just a few of the million things they would have to cope with after moving. You can imagine how difficult moving errands maybe since everything from packing, hauling, unloading, and unpacking coupled with the apprehension of strange surroundings can be disturbing.

It would be a nice gesture to bring them nice housewarming gifts to help them cheer up. Moving can be stressful, so it's a good idea to spend some time with them and show your support.

The parts that follow will focus on a few hand-picked suggestions that you can utilize to choose the perfect housewarming present for your colleagues.

1.  Assortment of Kitchen Appliances

Gifting kitchen items or sets might be one of the most thoughtful housewarming gifts for your friends and family in their new homes. A dining set, kitchen rack, jars, or spice boxes are just a few of the many possibilities available.

Most people plan their kitchens before moving, so it's a good idea to double-check to see if they've forgotten anything. Assist them in organizing their kitchen by providing missing equipment such as a microwave stand, a coffee blender, or silverware. Helpful kitchen gadgets are also beneficial in the kitchen.

2.  Enhancing the Look of Your Living Room

The living room is where people relax and seek refuge. It is one of the most important places in the house for family bonding. Housewarming gifts such as antique lamps, wall shelves, carte de visite, or a wall painting can help your friends decorate their new homes' living rooms.

You must choose your housewarming gift for the living room by keeping the personality of your friends in mind. Your gift should reflect the aesthetics of their personality or individuality.

3.  Decorating for the Outside

If your relocating friends have a garden, balcony, or outdoor area, you can choose to assist them in beautifying these areas of their home. Decorative plants, garden chairs, patio furniture, and so on can make excellent housewarming gifts and fill them with positive energy.

One of the best things about sending plants as housewarming presents is that they require little maintenance and thrive quickly. In a few parts of the world, gifting plants like bamboo is auspicious and associated with good luck and prosperity. Isn't this a wonderful way to feel good about moving?

4.  Eco-Friendly Gift

A green housewarming gift is a fantastic idea! If your friends are concerned about the environment, thoughtful housewarming gifts like solar-powered garden lights will be appreciated. These eco-friendly things do not hurt the environment and have no carbon imprint.

A few other eco-friendly gifts for housewarming are eco-friendly bath items, compost bins, eco-friendly bath items like bamboo toothbrushes, bath salts, natural candles, organic cotton, towels, etc.

5.  Gift Cards

If you still cannot think of something that might cheer up your moving buddies, then do not beat yourself up. There is a simple option to this predicament. You can give them “gift cards.”

When you don't know what your friends like, it's best to leave the decision to them and simply bring gift cards to their housewarming. That provides them with the freedom to choose the present of their choosing. You can give them a gift card for their favorite home décor store or a clothing store of their choice.

Conclusion

Moving can be an arduous task, and your loved ones might feel overwhelmed and stressed. As a caring friend or family member, it's crucial to show your support and empathy by giving thoughtful housewarming gifts. Whether it's a kitchen appliance, a living room décor item, an eco-friendly gift, or a gift card, your gesture will help ease their transition to a new home.

At Empire Movers & Storage, we understand the importance of creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for your loved ones. That's why we've provided you with these five fantastic ideas for housewarming gifts. So, pick one that resonates with you and start cheering up your friends and family. And, if you need any help with your moving needs, don't hesitate to contact us. We'll be happy to assist you!

How Marijuana Legalization is Evolving in the 21st Century

It's no secret that cannabis laws have changed dramatically and rapidly over the past decade, but what most people don't realize is just how drastic the changes have been. This is because these things are often seen over the course of an extended period, diluting the impact of what you observe. Nevertheless, change has most assuredly arrived and continues to do so as more and more people become ambivalent or have actively taken a stance on its legalization. This post will update you on the current state of affairs and begin with a bit of history of the tumultuous relationship cannabis has had with the US government.

History Of Cannabis In The USA

Marijuana has a storied history in this nation for over a century since the powers that be decided it was a menace to society and put it in the same bucket as seriously hard drugs like heroin and cocaine. It was initially legal and commonly used in the 1800s, primarily for medicinal purposes. However, in the early 1900s, attitudes towards cannabis began to shift as it became associated with Mexican immigrants and racial stereotypes. This led to the first state-level ban on cannabis in California in 1913 (although it became harder to access it in Massachusetts two years prior). The federal government's stance on cannabis further intensified in the 1930s with the introduction of the Marihuana Tax Act, which effectively criminalized the possession and sale of cannabis. 

This was followed by the War on Drugs in the 1970s, which saw cannabis classified as a Schedule I drug together with much harsher and more potent drugs. Many governments become worried about the length of time it stays in your system and how it could affect workers' productivity as the country was going through a severe economic boom and bust cycle. Despite this, the 21st century has seen a significant shift in attitudes toward cannabis legalization, with more and more states legalizing cannabis for both medical and recreational use. California first moved to legalize medical cannabis in 1996, followed by several other states in the following years. After Colorado and Washington legalized recreational cannabis in 2012, several other states followed, and since then, the floodgates have been forced wide open (although still not on a federal level).

How Have States Legalized It In Different Ways?

Although the word "legalization" seems like an all-encompassing term, it has subtle nuances depending on which state you are discussing. For example, while almost all states have legalized it in one form or another, it still remains illegal in 13 states. However, it becomes even more confusing when you look at those 13 states since some have decriminalized its possession up to a certain amount. In contrast, others keep in place relatively draconian laws. Nonetheless, disregarding those 13, the others have "legalized" cannabis for medicinal, recreational, or both purposes. But the question remains, what is the difference between those two options?

Medical

Medical marijuana refers to the use of the cannabis plant and its extracts for medicinal purposes. In recent years, it has gained more attention as a potential alternative to traditional, harsh pharmaceuticals with far fewer side effects to boot. Concerning legalization, many states in the US have passed laws allowing for the use of medical marijuana with a doctor's recommendation. Furthermore, while many US states allow its use for the treatment of various ailments, getting a medical marijuana card to buy cannabis from a dispensary legally still involves stringent procedures. Their knowledgeable team at Rootdown in Richland, MS, ensures that each patient receives guidance on the appropriate strains and dosages.

Recreational

As the name suggests, any jurisdiction that has completely decriminalized the use of weed for recreational use means that individuals won't be prosecuted if found with a certain amount or are smoking outside their homes. However, this often comes with a few caveats, including:

• Having to purchase from registered dispensaries

• Limitations on the amount that can be possessed (either inside or outside your home)

• Being unable to sell your own products

• Restrictions on where you can smoke (e.g., not around schools, government buildings, etc.)

• A ban on smoking and driving (similar to alcohol laws)

Nevertheless, unless you obviously flout such restrictions, in most cases, you will be let off with a warning or possible misdemeanor (unless you are caught smoking and driving, which has more severe repercussions).

Why Has The Federal Government Remained Stalwart In Its View Of The Situation?

The one curveball to this story is the federal government, which remains stubbornly conservative regarding cannabis, regardless of the people's will (which is discussed later). As per the government, marijuana remains a Schedule I substance which carries the highest penalties and is more commonly associated with drugs with serious consequences. This classification is because they believe it has a "high potential for abuse," meaning they are concerned that people will become addicted and find it challenging to wean themselves off it. 

Furthermore, crossing state lines possessing even diminutive amounts remains highly illegal. This creates a bizarre situation whereby you are unable to cross into a neighboring state with cannabis, despite both states allowing it! However, the government seems to be aware of the discrepancy between the center and its peripheries because it introduced the Rohrabacher–Farr amendment in 2001 that prevented the Justice Department from interfering with the implementation of state medical cannabis laws with federal funds. Some consider this as a defacto acceptance of the situation as it stands while still being able to present themselves as anti-drug advocates. Despite this respite, there is definitely a groundswell toward full legalization or at least decriminalization from a large number of the population. 

How Do People Currently Think Of The Situation, And Is There A Will For Change?

According to this Pew Research Center report, an overwhelming number of people want the US to legalize weed in one form or another, with the preference tilting toward both medical and recreational use. An overwhelming 59% of respondents wanted both options legal, while 30% preferred only medical use. Moreover, only 10% of participants wanted the status quo to remain. While this is only one survey, plenty of others have indicated similar results, hopefully putting more pressure on the government to change course and accept the findings.

Throughout the past century, marijuana has been a hot topic and has undergone significant changes. From its free use to a complete ban to a slow overturning on the state level, it seems that time will be the final arbiter on whether the government chooses to submit to the will of the people and completely decriminalize it.

8 Unique Things To Add To Your Home For A Rugged Heavy-Duty Look

Are you looking for a rugged, heavy-duty look in your home without breaking the bank? Well, you're in luck! There are several easy and affordable ways to transform any space into an industrial-style haven. From exposed brick walls to concrete tiles and vintage furniture pieces, we'll show you eight unique things that can add character to your home. No matter what kind of look you’re going for – sleek and modern or warmly traditional – there is something on this list that will suit just about any taste and budget. Read on to find out how to create the perfect rustic retreat in your very own living room!

Add Wall Hooks

An easy and inexpensive way to add a heavy-duty accent to any room is to hang some wall hooks. Use them in your entryway for coats and bags, or in the kitchen for towels and utensils. These hooks come in all shapes and sizes – from classic circular ones to unique geometric designs – so you can easily find something that suits your style and décor. Bonus points if you choose a metallic finish that adds an industrial edge to the space! You can also put trendy black wall hooks that are simple yet stylish. So, make sure to choose wisely!

Start Small with a Heavy-Duty Doormat to Make a Statement as Soon as You Enter the Home

Start small but still make a big impression with a heavy-duty doormat for your home. If you’re looking for a rugged, industrial look, nothing does the job like this classic item. With various material options out there—including rubber and coir—your options are almost limitless; play around with designs and textures to add just the right touch of edge to your space. You can even opt for something truly unique by handwriting a custom message or quote on your mat. And if you're in search of something truly unique, explore the world of custom-crafted rugs to make a statement that's all your own. No matter what style you go with, every time you open the door, it will provide an interesting statement and eye-catching welcome that sets the tone for everything else in your home.

Embrace the Natural Look of Reclaimed Wood Furniture, Such as a Dining Table or Coffee Table

Embrace the natural look of reclaimed wood furniture and enjoy the rugged, heavy-duty feel that comes with it. Reclaimed wood furniture is created by taking old pieces of wood and going through a careful process to make them into something new. This type of furniture gives off a vintage vibe that looks stylish in any home. Incorporating reclaimed wood dining tables or coffee tables can instantly add charm and style to your home. If you're looking for an heirloom piece for your home that will stand out and last for years to come, consider investing in reclaimed wood furniture. Its unique rugged exterior exudes timelessness, making it an interesting addition to any living space.

Choose Bold Colors for the Walls and Decor to Make Your Space Stand Out

Choosing bold colors for your walls and decor is an amazing way to make sure your space stands out in a rugged yet fashionable way. Not only will it add character, but it will also give your home a dynamic presence that is hard to ignore. Shades of charcoal grey, navy blue, deep reds, and even some golden hues are all great choices when looking to go the bold route. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, don’t be afraid to mix and match – it can allow you to achieve a truly unique and eye-catching look in your home that you’ll be sure to love. When incorporating these colors into furnishings like heavy-duty furniture pieces or statement rugs, it's a winning combination. So if you want to take your home decor game up a notch, use these colors for a unique twist!

Incorporate Accessories Made from Animal Hide and Fur to add a Rugged Touch to Any Room

For an instant dose of rugged masculinity, why not add some animal hide or fur accessories to your home? Whether it's a sheepskin rug, a shaggy deer hide throw pillow, or a coyote-hide ottoman, there's something special about the organic texture and earthy tones of these materials that have been used since ancient times to bring comfort and elegance to the home. There's nothing quite like being able to enjoy the feeling of nature within the confines of your own living space — warming up a room and adding character without ever overdoing it. Plus, every piece is unique - so you can be sure that there's no one else in the world who has exactly what you do!

Invest in Quality Appliances

Sure, this requires a financial investment – but it pays off handsomely in the long run with reliable performance, durability, and classic looks that won't date quickly. Look to well-known appliance brands like Viking, Wolf, and GE that bring both cutting-edge technologies as well as classic design into every piece. Plus, their reliable build ensures peace of mind knowing you can trust them to stand up to the test of time and everyday use. After all, part of achieving a seasoned aesthetic is guaranteeing the longevity of each purchase within our homes!

Add Plenty of Plants for a Fresh and Living Look

A rugged, heavy-duty look can be brought to life with just the right touches, and one of the easiest ways to do this is by playing with natural elements. Add plenty of plants around your home for a fresh and living atmosphere, while still maintaining that rough and tough aesthetic. Choose hearty succulents or cacti that can take a bump or two, or go for larger potted trees to give your home striking depth and texture. Not only will it look good, but you might even be surprised at how many health benefits come along with keeping plants indoors--it's a win-win. To further enhance the display of your indoor plants, consider integrating a maple floating shelf into your decor. This not only elevates the plants to eye level, creating a natural focal point but also adds a touch of warmth and organic beauty that complements the rugged look of your space seamlessly.

Install Vintage Light Fixtures

Take your lighting game up a notch with vintage-inspired light fixtures like barn lights, industrial-style pendants, or Edison bulbs. Not only are these fixtures stylish and timeless, but they also add a rugged edge to any room. You can mix and match different styles or find one that’s right for your space—it all depends on the look and feel you want to achieve.

In conclusion, there are plenty of ways to get that rugged, heavy-duty look in your home. From bold colors for the walls and decor to quality appliances and vintage light fixtures, you can easily achieve a look that is both fashionable and timeless. With these tips in mind, you’ll have no trouble creating a rugged home that is both stylish and inviting. Good luck!