Water and Sewer Bills

To estimate your water and sewer costs, start by contacting the local water company. They can provide you with the average cost for a household of your size in your specific area. If the previous owners are amenable, you might ask for a copy of their bills over the past year to get a monthly average. Keep in mind that if you’re moving from a region where water is plentiful to one where it’s scarce, you may see an increase in costs. The national average for combined water and sewer services is around $54 per month. However, the average monthly water bill varies considerably by state. 

According to Statista, in 2023, West Virginia had the most expensive water rates, with an average monthly bill of almost 100 U.S. dollars, followed by California ($77), Oregon ($76), Washington ($75), and New Jersey ($72).

The five states with the lowest average monthly water bills are Vermont and Wisconsin (both $18), followed by North Carolina ($20), Louisiana ($21), and Mississippi ($23). 

Trash Collection

Trash collection is another variable expense. In some areas, this service is covered by municipal taxes, while in others, you’ll need to contract with a private company. Reach out to the local municipality or the neighborhood homeowners’ association (HOA) to get this information. Rates can also be tiered based on the amount of trash you produce, so consider your family’s waste production when estimating this cost. The average monthly bill for trash collection in the United States can range from $25 to $100. Depending on where you live, you may need to pay more for bulk and hazardous waste pickup.

You may be able to reduce your trash bill by choosing the smallest trash container offered by your local service, but make sure it fits your disposal needs. Overpacking a container or exceeding agreed-upon weight may result in extra fees or denial of service. Reducing waste, recycling whenever possible and handling your own returns of things like containers to place of purchase can also help lower costs.

Electricity and Gas

Electricity and gas costs are perhaps the most variable and can be influenced by factors such as climate, your home’s energy efficiency, and market rates for these utilities. Contact local service providers for historical usage data on the property. They can often provide monthly or seasonal averages. If you’re buying a home with old appliances, or if the home is large, expect higher costs. 

The average electric bill in the US is $150 per month based on the average residential electricity price of 16.8 cents per kWh for July 2023 and the average household consumption of 881 kWh per month. Prices per kWh vary widely across the nation. For example, the average cost of electricity in New York City in 2023 is 21.71¢ per kilowatt/hour. And the average cost of electricity in Miami in 2023 is 14.21¢ per kilowatt/hour. 

The average natural gas bill in the United States in 2023 is between $65 and $70 per month, based on an average monthly residential natural gas usage between 70 and 90 therms per month. 

You do have some control over how much energy you use. Consider an energy audit to assess potential savings. Some utility companies offer these for free or at a reduced cost. It’s also worth investing in energy-efficient appliances and light fixtures, which can lead to significant savings over time. If you prefer predictable bills, you can check to see if your utility company offers flat rate billing, spreading the estimated cost of a year’s bills into 12 payments. At the end of the year, there’s a “true up” where the utility checks to see if you paid more or less than your actual usage. If you used more than expected, you can typically pay the overage off in one lump sum, or have the balance added to the next year’s monthly payments.

HOA or Condo Fees

Obviously these are not utilities, but if your new home is part of an HOA or a condominium, you’ll want to factor in this fee.

The typical HOA (Homeowners Association) or condo fee can vary significantly depending on a variety of factors including the location of the property, the type of community, the amenities provided, and the size of the home or condo unit. HOA fees for single-family homes or townhouses usually cover community amenities like parks, community pools, and any common landscaping. They may also include security services and street maintenance. Monthly HOA fees average $170, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Housing Survey estimates. Most homeowners in HOAs, though, pay less than $50 a month.

For condominiums, the fees are often higher because they tend to cover more maintenance and services, such as building insurance, landscaping, snow removal, trash removal, and sometimes utilities like water and sewer. Condo fees can also include the maintenance of common areas like gyms, pools, and elevators. The average cost of condo fees nationwide is around $350 per month, with fees varying widely depending on location. For example, average condo fees in New York City are just over $1,300 per month, while in Miami the average is $415 a month, ranking fifth among the nation’s 50 largest metropolitan areas

It’s important to note that these fees can also rise over time due to inflation, unexpected maintenance costs, or planned upgrades within the community. When considering a property within an HOA or a condo association, it’s crucial to not only ask for the current fee amount but also review the history of fee increases and the health of the association’s reserve fund. A well-managed association will have adequate reserves for future repairs and maintenance, reducing the likelihood of unexpected special assessments.

Time to Crunch Those Numbers

Once you have gathered all this information, you can start estimating your monthly costs. Create a spreadsheet and list all the different utilities, the estimated monthly costs, and any seasonal variations you might expect. Don’t forget to include the HOA or condo fees if applicable. This will give you a clearer picture of your monthly outgoings on top of your mortgage payment.

Remember that these are estimates and actual costs can vary. It’s prudent to add a buffer of around 10-20% to your estimates to account for unexpected usage spikes or rate increases. Additionally, if you are making an energy-efficient home upgrade, factor in the upfront costs against the long-term savings on your utility bills.

Buying a home is a significant investment, and the more informed you are about the ongoing costs, the better prepared you will be for the financial commitment. By taking the time to research and estimate your utility costs, you’ll be in a stronger position to manage your finances and enjoy your new home without worrying about unforeseen expenses.

One More Thing – Estimating the Cost of Moving

While you’re figuring out important new home expenses, you might as well do the math for your moving costs. Good news: Bellhop makes it easy to determine the price of your move. Use our moving cost calculator to find out how much you should budget for, and check out our tips on how to cut moving costs too. 

From long distance to local moves, full-service and special project hourly rates, storage services and last minute moves – Bellhop does it all. And we are dedicated to making your relocation as easy and inexpensive as possible. Book your Bellhop move now or reach out and connect with us for answers to all your moving questions. 

The post <strong>How to Estimate Your Utility Costs</strong> appeared first on Bellhop.

The history of the community in Dallas is a testament to resilience, unity, and mutual support. By the late 1960s, Dallas had an emerging gay neighborhood, Oak Lawn, which gradually became the epicenter of the LGBTIQA+ community. This was also the time when the first openly gay and lesbian bars started appearing. The AIDS crisis in the 1980s sparked a more public presence, with the community working to provide support and resources for everyone affected. 

Activism intensified in the 90s and early 2000s, leading to significant momentum in acceptance and visibility. Events like the Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade, originally known as the Dallas Gay Pride Parade, which started in 1983, became annual celebrations of LGBTQ pride and rights.

LGBTIQA+ Dallas Now – Facts and Figures

Recent estimates suggest that approximately 4.1% of Dallas residents identify as LGBTQA+. Many believe the actual percentage is higher.  

Dallas, in general, is increasingly recognized as gay-friendly. In terms of legislation, Texas does not have a statewide non-discrimination law that explicitly includes sexual orientation or gender identity. However, Dallas City Council passed an ordinance in 2002 that prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation in employment, housing, and public accommodations. It later expanded the ordinance in 2015 to include gender identity.

Dallas’s Best Gay-Friendly Neighborhoods

Oak Lawn

The epicenter of gay life in Dallas, and the traditional staging area for the annual Dallas Pride parade, Oak Lawn stands out for its diversity and inclusivity. 

What’s happening in Oak Lawn? Cedar Springs Road is the main artery of the Oak Lawn district, particularly the area north of Oak Lawn Blvd. and west of Lemmon Ave that’s known as “The Strip.” Here, you’ll find a plethora of gay bars, nightclubs, restaurants, and shops that cater to the LGBTQA+ community, including:

• JR’s Bar & Grill: One of the most recognizable gay bars on The Strip, JR’s offers feisty drinks and music, a large outdoor patio, and plenty of special events. 
• Sue Ellen’s: A lesbian bar that’s welcoming to everyone. Sue Ellen’s has multiple levels so you can choose the vibe that fits your mood – from chill lounge to lively dancing. 
• The Round-Up Saloon: Looking to do some line dancing at a country-western themed gay bar? Head to Round-Up. If you can’t dance country-style, they’ll teach you. Or you can just hang out and listen to the music. 
• Station 4 (S4): With all the themed party nights, you’ll never be bored here. Hit the dance floor and check out the show in the Rose Room.
• The Hidden Door: Feeling social but not in the mood for a high energy scene? The outdoor patio at the Hidden Door is where you want to be. 
• Kodiak’s Restaurant and Bar: Kodiak’s is a low-key but fun place to relax, eat and drink with your friends.  
• Dallas Woody’s Sports & Video Bar: Catch a game, sing some karaoke, meet and mingle, and watch the people. 

Safety and Community Support

 Oak Lawn is generally considered safe and welcoming, but like all urban areas, it has faced occasional incidents of crime and, sadly, sometimes hate crimes. Local businesses and community members have often rallied together to address these issues and support victims.

Oak Lawn is home to several organizations and establishments that support the LGBTQ+ community. The Resource Center, for instance, provides health services, community programs, and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ people of North Texas. And The Oak Lawn Committee civic organization plays an active participation in maintaining the area’s unique identity.

If you’re considering visiting or moving to Oak Lawn, you’ll find it to be a lively, dynamic area with a rich history and a bright future. It stands as one of the most recognizable gay-friendly neighborhoods in the southern United States.

Bishop Arts District

The Bishop Arts District in Dallas’ Oak Cliff neighborhood, while not as historically entrenched in LGBTQA+ culture as the Oak Lawn area, has become increasingly welcoming and diverse over the years. The district’s inclusive atmosphere, artistic vibe, and emphasis on independent and locally owned businesses make it appealing to a wide range of individuals, including members of the LGBTQ+ community.

What’s happening in Bishop Arts? Bishop Arts does not have the concentration of LGBTQ+ bars and clubs that Oak Lawn does, but its nightlife is varied and inclusive. Several establishments are known for their welcoming atmosphere for all patrons, regardless of orientation or gender identity. Make sure to check out:

• Oddfellows: With a motto of “Food for all”, Oddfellows dishes up seasonal, “farm fresh” comfort foods and an intriguing selection of beverages.
• Hunky’s Old Fashioned Hamburgers: Hunky’s has other locations in Dallas, including Oak Lawn, and – as you may have guessed – serves excellent classic American burgers. There’s more to the menu than beef, including a veggie burger and salads, so don’t hesitate to drop by for lunch or dinner.
• Barbara’s Pavillion: Located just a short distance from the main Bishop Arts District, on 325 Centre St. Barbara’s has been serving Dallas’ gay and lesbian community for over 50 years. 

Bars in the area that aren’t explicitly gay but are welcoming include The Wild Detectives, a combination bar/bookstore and Ten Bells Tavern, a British-ish pub in the heart of Texas. And if you’re looking for fancy cocktails, check out Boulevardier. 

In the mood for shopping? Have a look at Society, and the Bishop Street Market. And there are many others, look for the rainbow flags and stickers – you’ll find plenty of places to explore. 

Safety and community support

 The Bishop Arts District, like many urban areas, has pockets where crime is higher or lower. Most visitors and residents feel safe, especially during daylight hours and when frequenting the main commercial areas.Increased development and gentrification in Bishop Arts can have mixed effects, displacing long-term residents, and creating areas that are in transition. Websites like the Dallas Police Department’s public portal or community forums can provide recent crime statistics and reports about current safety perceptions. 

If you’re considering a move here, talking to current residents can provide invaluable insights into day-to-day life and safety in the neighborhood. It’s definitely an area that is growing and developing, while trying to retain its reputation as a hub for creativity and independent businesses.

Deep Ellum

Long known for its great music and art scene, Deep Ellum is emerging as an LGBTQA+-friendly neighborhood. It’s young, vibrant, and embraces diversity.

What’s Happening in Deep Ellum? 

While many businesses in Deep Ellum might not be exclusively LGBTQ+-oriented, the district’s alternative and artsy vibe tends to draw businesses and people who welcome folks from all walks of life. Some good places to check out include:

• Stirr: A trendy restaurant and bar known for its rooftop views of the Dallas skyline.
• Maracuja: A lively venue that occasionally hosts LGBTQA+-friendly events.
• Twilite Lounge: This cozy New Orleans-inspired bar has a welcoming and inclusive vibe.

Safety and community support

Historically, Deep Ellum had a reputation for being a bit edgy, especially at night. However, significant efforts have been made to improve the district’s safety, especially with the influx of new businesses and developments in recent years. The community is, by and large, welcoming and there have been initiatives like increased lighting, security patrols, and collaborations with the Dallas Police Department to boost safety in the area. 

As previously noted, websites like the Dallas Police Department’s public portal or community forums can provide recent crime statistics and reports about current safety perceptions. Do your research, the area is changing rapidly, and local folks are the best sources of current info.

Knox/Henderson

Knox/Henderson isn’t Dallas’s primary LGBTQ+ hub, but this district with its trendy shops, restaurants, and nightlife, is growing in its appeal to the LGBTQA+ community. Knox Street has upscale shops and eateries while Henderson Avenue is more laid-back with a diverse array of bars and restaurants.

What’s happening in Knox/Henderson? 

Knox/Henderson might not have as explicitly LGBTQ+-oriented venues as Oak Lawn, many places are inclusive and welcoming. Check out:

• Felix Culpa: This cocktail lounge on Henderson Avenue has a chic, modern feel and is known to be LGBTQ+-friendly.
• The Old Monk: A staple on Henderson Avenue, this pub is welcoming to all patrons. It’s not exclusively LGBTQ+, but it’s known for its inclusive and friendly environment.
• Barcadia: With retro arcade games and a casual bar setting, this spot is popular with a diverse crowd, including LGBTQ+ patrons.

Safety and community support

Knox/Henderson is generally considered safe and welcoming for LGBTQA+ folks. But as with any popular nightlife district, being vigilant and aware of your surroundings is crucial, especially during late hours. The Dallas Police Department often patrols popular nightlife areas such as Knox/Henderson, adding a layer of security. If you’re looking to make a move to this neighborhood, talk to locals and check the Dallas Police Department’s public portal  website for details on the specific streets/area you’re considering. 

Moving to Dallas?

Dallas’s commitment to embracing and celebrating diversity is evident in its gay-friendly neighborhoods. While the journey for equal rights continues, it’s heartening to witness the unity and acceptance that these neighborhoods foster. From Oak Lawn’s vibrant energy to the artsy allure of the Bishop Arts District, and the inclusive nature of neighborhoods like Deep Allum and Knox/Henderson, Dallas is not just a haven for the LGBTQA+ community, but a place where everyone can find a sense of belonging.

Ready to make your move? you can count on Bellhop to help make your move to Dallas stress-free and easy. Use our moving cost calculator to get a quick view of the approximate costs, or just go right ahead and book your Bellhop move. Questions? We have answers and we’re always happy to talk to you.

Other Dallas Guides

• Moving to Dallas, TX
• The 5 Best Places to Live in Dallas
• 5 Up and Coming Neighborhoods in Dallas
• The Best Places to Live in Texas, Hands Down
• The 11 Best Breweries in Dallas, TX
• Is Moving to Texas Right for You? A 2022 Guide.
• Moving From Colorado to Texas: Your Guide to a Smooth Move
• Best Schools in Dallas
• Best Suburbs of Dallas
• Most Affordable Family-Friendly Dallas Neighborhoods
• Crime and Safety in Dallas, TX
• Dallas vs. Austin
• Houston vs. Dallas
• Most Expensive Neighborhoods in Dallas

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Trust us when we say that we understand – moving is stressful. In fact, in a survey done by OnePoll, they found that 45% of Americans believe moving is the most stressful life event, followed by divorce. If you’re feeling overwhelmed on deciding how to hire local movers, we assure you that you are not alone. Bellhop is a national moving company, operating in over 30 states, and over 141 cities across the nation. They’ve developed their own technologies in order to bring the moving industry into the modern world. Through means of simple online booking, pay-as-you-go rates, direct communication with your movers along with Bellhop Support, and more.

You might be thinking – but Bellhop is a national moving company, I’m looking for local movers in my area. We understand, and that’s why Bellhop prides themselves in having multiple ways to maintain a localized experience through a nationally backed company. Keep reading to see how it works, and why you should hire local movers through Bellhop.

Pro Requirements

Bellhop refers to the movers on their platform as pros, because with Bellhop’s backing and training, they become professionals in the industry. Pros are required to live in a certain radius around the city/market area, and be familiar with the area. This helps to prevent any delays or confusion with certain addresses. For example, the pros need to be aware of when rush hour is in their cities, to hold themselves accountable and make sure that they arrive in a timely fashion to the start time of the move. They need to be experts in moving, but also experts in navigating any heavy traffic or delays within their city – same with our trucks.

For each move, there is one captain who oversees the rest of the pros, to ensure things are running smoothly and efficiently. Every pro that starts on Bellhop’s platform, starts as a recruit – which helps them learn the basic skill set and guides them on their journey to becoming pro status. Beyond pro status, those who stand out as role models in their markets, receive a certain amount of high quality scores/reviews, and have demonstrated that they are an expert in the industry, become captain status. Prior to your move, through Bellhop’s Customer Dashboard on their website, customers are able to see the pictures and names of each pro who will be on their move. This provides transparency and also gives customers the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the local pros who will be caring for their items. Bellhop ensures that those leading each team, and those on each team, are constantly representing the high standard set for local movers through Bellhop.

Market Managers

Besides just requiring a certain level of expertise within pros, Bellhop also requires expertise within the individuals who directly oversee each of our city markets. Bellhop’s Market Managers are people who are directly responsible for the pros, trucks, ratings, and feedback in each of our service areas. These individuals often accompany our pros on moves for training purposes or when an extra set of hands is needed.

For our larger markets such as New York City, Los Angeles, and Seattle – Market Managers are required to live in the area to be able to directly oversee issues and needs of that specific market. For other markets that do not require the Market Manager to be a resident there, those individuals are required to visit a certain amount of times a year, for training, being on site for larger scale moves, and to review everything directly in person to ensure each pro in every market is abiding by the standards set for local movers through Bellhop.

Area Circumstance Awareness

Alongside specific requirements for our pros and the managers who oversee each market, another way Bellhop makes their national company feel specialized to each city on a local level is through requiring our Customer Operations Department at headquarters to be aware of any inclement weather, important events, major traffic delays, or other potential situations in your city that could cause your move to not run as scheduled. Our operational experts at headquarters make a point to be aware of these circumstances, in order to get in touch with customers in advanced to inform them of any potential delays or reschedules before the customer even calls in to make Bellhop aware.

Though Bellhop is a national company, they aim to understand local issues in each area in order to provide efficient and reliable communication with their pros, trucks, and most importantly, their customers. Bellhop aims to work around all potential delays or circumstances out of their control – so long as a move is still able to be ran, the company will do what they can to work around any thunderstorms, major concerts, delays from interstate traffic, and everything in between, aiming to make hiring local movers through Bellhop as hassle free as possible.

Regardless of national status, Bellhop cares on a local level.

Bellhop understands that though they provide local and long distance moves on a national level – losing touch of any local market they serve is not an option in order to provide the utmost care and five star experience within an industry known for letting people down. Each move, no matter how small, is as crucial to Bellhop as it is to the person being moved. Bellhop is not only moving a person’s inventory, but also their life, all while assisting in new beginnings for customers moving into a new home, or sometimes a whole new city. Before they were nationally known, the company served as a moving service for college students on Auburn University’s campus. Though they have grown and expanded, Bellhop hasn’t forgotten that behind every move is a person, a family, and a life. Next time you’re looking at moving, consider hiring local movers through Bellhop. We got you.

The post Why You Should Hire Local Movers Through Bellhop appeared first on Bellhop.

Von Petty

Inbound Sales Associate

I am an artist at heart and care a lot about people. I love to bake, draw, and care for my guinea babies. My favorite thing about working at Bellhop is talking and connecting with my peers and my bosses. Everyone is so nice, yet very goal-oriented. They are very encouraging and all offer to help me out when I need to be pointed in the right direction. 

Women are amazing and beautiful in more ways than one. There are women in my life that I look up to and strive to embody in my own life choices. We have been put down and counted out for so long, and I feel that it is time that we celebrate ourselves and each other for simply being wonderful women. 

One woman I admire is Viola Davis. She is a force of nature. A whirlwind of talent and beauty. She is a Black Queen that reminds me of how amazing we are.

Eunice Chung

GM/Director, Program Ops

I’m a Chicago native, but have also lived in Atlanta, Seattle, and Chattanooga over the last 12 years. My biggest hobby right now is sports, both playing and watching. I’m a bit of a sports nerd, so the Chicago Bears, Bulls, and Cubs have given me some heartburn in recent years (although no one can ever take away the Cubs’ 2016 Championship), but there’s always next year!

I will always remember my first busy season here in 2019. There was such incredible energy in all of our locations, with everyone working together towards a common goal and celebrating constantly along the way. That’s when I knew Bellhop was something special.

Bellhop has given me the freedom to explore different projects and initiatives which have pushed me and ultimately allowed me to grow in my career. If there’s a problem and you have an idea to fix it, Bellhop fully supports you exploring and owning it.  

To me, Women’s History Month means a time of celebration, appreciation, and learning. I am constantly learning new facts about women, their accomplishments, and what they had to overcome. I have a greater sense of appreciation the more I learn. 

One woman I admire is Indra Nooyi, who was the CEO of Pepsico between 2006 – 2018 and is widely considered one of the most successful CEOs in recent decades. Nooyi’s approach to leading is something she coined as “Performance with Purpose,” which anchors on building a business model that is deeply rooted in driving good for all stakeholders, not just in a financial sense but also a very human sense.

Adrianne O’Connor

Captain & City Operations Associate

I am 42 and live in Fort Worth, Texas. I have a 14-year-old son and two dogs named Murray and Bella. My favorite hobbies are cycling and reading personal development books. I am super passionate about human behavior and psychology. I’m excited about pursuing my psychology degree and becoming a college professor!

One of my favorite Bellhop memories includes going to my apartment after a fun and easy move and playing a game of Monopoly with the guys! I appreciate that Bellhop provides me the tools and equipment I need when I ask for them. 

To me, Women’s History Month is a time to highlight women in history who have persevered in the face of adversity. One woman I have always admired is Maya Angelou.

Kaitlunn Wilkerson

Customer Operations Training & Process Specialist

I am currently a third-semester master’s student at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Since the pandemic, I have found a love for recreating drinks and meals from my favorite restaurants. I also enjoy creating, DIY projects, and calligraphy. I have a sassy Chihuahua-Jack Terrier pup, Olive, who is never far behind me! 

One of my fondest Bellhop memories was my first All Hands company meeting shout out. I’d been on the team for a short time, in a new city, and trying to keep up on a male-dominated team. My manager at the time begged me to go to this meeting and I was so glad I did! I had surpassed our team’s metrics for Customer Satisfaction rating. It meant so much to me! 

Bellhop has helped me grow professionally by allowing me to bring my ideas to the table and have a hand in their fruition. I am surrounded by the most supportive and innovative people. I am so grateful for the mentorship and management I have received at Bellhop. There is always a laugh to be had at Bellhop, which I have found brings the most success! 

Women’s History Month for me means remembering and honoring the women past, present, and future that fought to give voices for all women in healthcare, education, the workplace, and more. In 1920, women were given the right to vote—just a little over 100 years ago! It’s also a reminder to uplift those strong women in your life that have made changes in your life and others. For me, Women’s History Month means my mother, my sister, my teachers, my mentor, and my wonderful, amazing female coworkers!

An influential woman I admire is my Bellhop mentor, Joanie Love. She may not be famous, but she sure should be. Joanie is one of the kindest, most giving people I’ve ever had the pleasure to meet. She’s always willing to listen and helped me develop professionally and personally.

Erin Smith

Bellhop Pro

I was a competitive ski racer and tennis player. I am now a student at the University of Denver. I love meeting new people and helping them move. It’s a great experience to work with a bunch of guys moving and lifting heavy furniture. It surprises a lot of them! When it comes to Women’s History Month, I think every day is worth celebrating. A lot of my female heroes are female athletes in general.

Susy Korb

Board Member

My main interest is humanity—how it works and how empathy can make the world a better place. On a lighter note, I watch an embarrassing amount of TV, but I knit while I watch to feel a little less guilty about it. 

I have moved homes twice with Bellhop, and the spirit and enthusiasm of the team was amazing. Even though they were long, hard days, we had a lot of fun! I love working with the CEO Luke Marklin and the Board to help Bellhop become a truly great place to work. It requires listening and learning and a culture of constant improvement.

To me, Women’s History Month means to not be passive about change. Equal opportunity is a huge, systemic issue around the world that won’t get better unless we talk about it, and take concrete steps to change it. A woman I particularly admire is Rosa Parks.

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