Hurricane season is upon us and if you are not prepared, you may quickly find yourself in one of those long lines at the local home improvement store. Before you panic, you can quickly and easily start to pack up some of the items that will pose a hazard, if a storm does hit. Below, we will go over some of the items you need to put in your self-storage unit this hurricane season.

1. Flower and Plant Pots

Flower and plant pots can become a hazard, especially if the winds around your home pick up. It is important that you bring your plants inside and that you store any empty pots in your storage unit. You can bring your plants and pots back outside once hurricane season has passed.

2. Swing Sets

While your swing set may be anchored into the ground, strong hurricane winds can become a problem. Of course, your children likely want to use the swing set during the summer, so you can leave it in your yard until there is impending doom from a hurricane.

Once a hurricane approaches or you are in the danger zone, you should disassemble the swing set and place it in your storage unit for safe keeping.

Congratulations! You are ready to purchase your first home, but before you do, there are some things that you need to know beforehand. Below, we will go over some tips to help ensure that you are completely ready to make the big leap.

1. Can You Afford It?

While you probably are shaking your head yes and laughing at the thought of not being able to afford it, this is a serious question. Many people make the mistake of jumping into home ownership and they do not realize how much money it does take. While you may have a low mortgage payment, do you have the money for the down payment? What about the money for annual taxes on the home? What about the money to replace the plumbing or roof if something happens?

Many of the small things simply slip your mind when you think about paying for your home. If you will just get by with your mortgage payment, you may not be ready to purchase a home just yet.

Planning a huge Fourth of July party? If so, you need to prep your home to ensure that you are comfortable having people over and that your guests can enjoy their time at your home. Below, we will go over some tips to help you properly prepare your home for the best Independence Day bash.

1. Clean Your Home

The first step you want to take is to clean your home. A messy home is a home that no one wants to party at. When it comes time to clean, make sure you thoroughly clean the areas that your guests will frequent the most. Also, make sure to declutter common areas that people will be in as well.

2. Place Excess Items in Storage

If you find that you have items you want, but do not need in your home, consider renting a storage unit. You can keep your items safe inside the unit while you free up space in your home at the same time.

When you think of a college town, you think of a city that is focused on football, drinks, chicken wings, and barbecue, right? Partying is the way of the city and each resident is always sporting a jersey on their back. Many college towns throughout the US are filled with more than just a football stadium and basketball court and there is some beautiful scenery and fun events to be had. Below, we will go over some of the best college towns located throughout the US and you may quickly find yourself a resident of one of them.

1. Claremont, California

Claremont, California is a city where you can earn your PhD while having a lovely time. The city is well-known for its educated residents and also amenities that are close by. Whether you want to spend the day out on the town and sample a bunch of the local coffee and pastry shops or you want to head to the San Gabriel Mountains, you can do it here. Just a stone’s throw away, you can access the Pacific Ocean and catch some waves. Roughly 1/6th of the population in Claremont is college students.

2. Athens, Georgia

University of Georgia calls Athens its home and you will find that the city life is buzzing no matter the time of day or night. While college students go to school by day, they party by night and enjoy all that the city has to offer in the way of activities and events. One of the perks of this college town is that the rent is not ridiculously high and is actually considered on the lower end. A simple walk in the streets will turn up many different venues, coffee shops, restaurants, and more.

When you look for a new city to live with your family, you want to make sure that you pick a city that is not filled with crime. As you start your search for a new neighborhood, you want to keep your eye on the schools that are in the area and also the amenities nearby such as local parks, recreation centers, and more. Below, we will go over some of the best cities for families with children.

1. Rockville, Maryland

Rockville, Maryland is a great place for young families looking to raise their children. The scenery is beautiful and the city’s school system is one of the better ones in the area. The city is also known for their athletic departments at the schools and children are able to participate in a wide array of sport types. The city does offer a lower crime rate than other surrounding areas, but do pay attention to the cost of living because it is a bit higher than other areas.

2. Chandler, Arizona

Chandler, Arizona is not necessarily a well-known city, but it is one that is perfect for families. The city boasts many events throughout the year and some of the events have crazy activities such as Chihuahua races and an annual ostrich festival. The city is known for almost year round sunshine with only about 30 days or so not being sunny. There are many different fun activities for kids littered throughout the city and the whole family can spend weekends together engaging in eventful play.