Finding right real estate professional requires doing a little research and asking a few questions. You need to know everything about selling process. What is marketing strategy? What kind of advertising will be done? Is REALTOR® capable and willing to communicate effectively? Can REALTOR® effectively present and sell less-noticeable assets of property?

Real estate professionals also need to be knowledgeable about community. They need to have a feel for history of area and approximate price that people will be willing to pay. Also, real estate agents should know what competition is and how much it will affect your sale.

Use right boxes, and pack them carefully

Professional moving companies use only sturdy, reinforced cartons. The boxes you can get at your neighborhood supermarket or liquor store might be free, but they are not nearly as strong or padded, and so can't shield your valuables as well from harm in transit.

Use sheets, blankets, pillows and towels to separate pictures and other fragile objects from each other and sides of carton. Pack plates and glass objects vertically, rather than flat and stacked.

Be sure to point out to your mover boxes in which you've packed fragile items, especially if those items are exceptionally valuable. The mover will advise you whether those valuables need to be repacked in sturdier, more appropriate boxes.

The heavier item, smaller box it should occupy. A good rule of thumb is if you can't lift carton easily, it's too heavy. Label your boxes, especially one containing sheets and towels, so you can find everything you need first night in your new home.

For your family's safety and comfort

Teach your children your new address. Let them practice writing it on packed cartons. You can lighten your load and reduce any storage space you need to rent by hosting a garage or yard sale.