[et_pb_section admin_label="section"] [et_pb_row admin_label="row"] [et_pb_column type="4_4"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text"]Baird & Warner Real Estate has a 165-year track record of powering through by pivoting and innovating even in the most challenging environments. This year is certainly no exception, and as leaders of the company's Relocation Services group, we took advantage of the circumstances to examine and refine, find efficiencies, and identify opportunities for growth. In speaking with our corporate clients and following the unexpected shift to remote work, we uncovered that several companies in the coming year will need a refined level of support as greater consideration is given to key professionals who will be offered a company sponsored move. Those select employees and new hires receiving relocation benefits will be more critical to a corporation's strategic plan than ever before.

Here in Chicagoland, we're known for our legendary winters. With lots of snow and frigid temperatures, winter is the season for snuggling up at home, preferably with a warm cup of tea and a cozy show on TV.  But with people continuing to buy and sell real estate during the fall and winter, the reality is that many people need to move during the coldest weeks of the year — which may mean facing the winter weather head on. For some people, a winter relocation may be necessary based on their work schedules or family commitments. Moving in the winter can also offer certain advantages. Since most people do tend to move during the spring and summer, moving companies, storage facilities, truck rental companies, and other helpful relocation services may have more availability and flexibility in the "off-season" — and may even offer discounted rates. Still, it's easy to see why the idea of moving in the winter might send a chill down your spine. Fortunately, there are lots of steps you can take to make your cold weather move easier, at every step of the way. Here are a few ideas to keep in mind as you schedule a big move during the frostiest months of the year: 

The keys are in your hand and the movers are all gone. Now what? While moving can be incredibly exciting, we know it also comes with some challenges. Settling in and really starting to feel comfortable in your new space is not always easy, and there may be an adjustment period. For some people, feeling right at home takes no time at all; for others, it may take days or even weeks.  As you move in, one of the biggest things to focus on is making sure that the space feels like yours.  Your first few weeks in a new house or apartment are a wonderful chance to add some personal touches, get in the swing of things, and make the blank space feel more like a home. 

Are you considering downsizing in 2020 or beyond? Here in Chicagoland and across the country, plenty of homeowners take this big step every year, selling their current home in order to move into a smaller space.  People choose to downsize for any number of reasons. Oftentimes, this is a move associated with older adults, who want smaller homes that are more accessible and easier to maintain — while also being more affordable, in some cases.  And it's certainly not just older homeowners who consider downsizing. In some cases, homeowners of all ages may want to "downsize to upgrade," seeking a smaller home with more features on their wishlist. Downsizing can also be a matter of convenience. Depending on your preferences, downsizing can be a way to simplify your life, declutter your home, and live a more sustainable, environmentally friendly lifestyle.