I decided to leave my birth country 5 years before I got on the plane with 7kg on my back. During those 5 years I bought very little for the house. As things failed I didn't replace it. I sold the house with all of the furniture and appliances included. At the end it was just one run to the landfill in the rented car. The new owner took me to airport for the freedom flight. Having nothing is a liberating thing. For 6 years I have adopted the minimalist approach and love it.
Hello Steve, Chuck from Canada, been watching your vids for awhile and totally convinced to retire there,, like you,,tired of all the drama here, drug dealers for neighbors, thieves, etc,, and this in a small town, I am in the process of selling and downsizing everything, Just sold my 2022 Ford XLT Superduty,, 5th wheel is next,, working on selling that, and it is amazing how over the years you accumulate all this stuff, I am literally nickel and dimeing myself to the Phillipines lol,, I just want to jump on the plane now and get there,, but this has to be done smart,, your videos help me out big time, and very much appreciate it, Going to Thailand in November December, for a month,, check things out and have a dental appointment there, cannot afford Dental here in Canada, no no benifits, ,, Won't get into too much detail will save it for a coffee with you in person,,,Just wanted to say HI and thanks again for all the good advice,, will keep watching,,,
I sold my house fully furnished, appliances and tv's still on the wall. I sold all the cars. We then packed up what we valued to us personally along with some consumables. That equated to 32 LBC boxes. The stuff like tools and household items we sold in a garage sale. We made $4600 on the garage sale. This more than covered shipping our boxes. I still came with 3 check-in bags, a carry-on, and a backpack. Once here re-furnished the house and got cars here. This fit us. I did take quite a few loads of clothing, shoes and bedding to the Goodwill.
I'm finally coming. My stereo equipment is too important to me and would definitely cost too much to replace in the Philippines so I'm using a moving company. I've had two quotes for 7,200 lb. I have less than that though. One quote for $16, 000 USD and my second quote for 11,000 USD $280 a month for storage once my furniture gets there. Hopefully I'll be there before the furniture gets there though. The SSRV is $7,000 duty free. Thanks for the education! 😎
My brother introduced me to mercari to sell things and I really liked it. eBay had too many scammers, and Amazon now requires authorization to sell a lot of electronics and things, either proof you’re a business or you have the receipt. No I don’t have my receipt for my video games I bought years ago. Fb marketplace is also pretty good. I tried offer up and got some views but no sales unfortunately, but what I like about mercari is you can even deliver it by a 3rd party member to come get it so it’s extra safe for both of you.
Funny thing Trece, you and I have the same state retirement pension. I am a retired Court Officer for the Trial Court of MA. And I am at the point of selling off everything that we have and boy have we accumulated a bunch of stuff. Whatever you sold off, multiply that by ten times and that's what I have to get rid of. But we have been doing this for several years now and are getting rather good at it. We also have a store front where we will be opening up 6 days a week as a thrift store getting rid of even more. Our move is planned for October this year. We at one time were going to go the 40 foot container thing but we have decided not to after coming up with what it would cost with agents and all, and you even have to pay the PH government to x-ray the container. So we decided to just send what we think we will need by Balikbayan box, much easier and more cost effective.
I completely dumped my past when I chose to come to the Philippines. I had already been screwed to the tune of two million USD by my, Western, ex-wife. She tried to do me over, but my Filipina partner knew what was going on and she supported me, because she also knew that I had a lot in reserve. As a comment I have read below states, "I sold out at the top of the market." Yes, so did I, and maybe I got lucky, but we are doing just dandy. We started anew because we opted for a new life with no ghosts from the past.
Yup, good video. Two bags and a carry-on. I will probably do one Balikbayan box with a couple electronics and a favorite tool or two. Start fresh. 13 months to go, and in the process of minimizing to nothingness.
Great tips. For a big part of my life I moved every two years for work. In the beginning I would pack a whole 3 bedroom house into a moving truck and drive. Buy the end I would just get rid of everything but my clothes and get on a plane. It was expensive to keep starting over, but so much more convenient and stress free, plus I found that I had fun rebuilding. So much in life is perception and how we approach a situation.
The hardest thing to give up was my car. I sold it 2 days before I got on the plane. I packed 2 suitcases with my summer clothes and gave my son lot of personal things that I had been saving. I have no personal belongings left behind.
Shipping rates went crazy for a while, up to $30k to ship a container, but it's back down to more reasonable rates. You can probably ship a 40 ft. container for around $2k now. It might be worth it if you have a big workshop with a lot of tools or something.
Magandag Hapon Po! I stopped keeping up with the “Jones” a very long time ago. When I retired I stayed long term at Countries of Mexico and Philippines. Got a chance to experience life during the virus at the Philippines. LGUs we’re simply to strict, lasted 6 months. Just got back in country, feels good to be back. Maraming Salamat for what you do Po. Mabuhay
Sold my 4 bed, 2 bath house in Tacoma. Shipped all my possessions to MN to my kids, let them pick out what they wanted for themselves (some few items are being stored for me by one of my son's, they will be his when I no longer need them). Had a yard sale with the rest, then Goodwill picked what was left over and took remainder to the dump. Packed 2 suitcases to move to the Philippines, could have left one behind. Started over clean here in Philippines. After 9 months here, best decision I ever made.
I just sold my house at the top of the market…selling my stuff slowly….some stuff I’ll take down to the kids in Texas. I’m preparing for the move and the crash
When I moved interstate in Australia last year, two days after the border opened, I decided to travel light. I could take 23kg on the plane and 80 kg in the car, which I freighted. I essentially did the same. Abd I felt it was good karma. But I still go to the drawer to get a tool and then realise that was in the old house. Ah well...I brought all my memories with me...and my hard drive.
Great video today. That is one of the hardest things to do with moving abroad. There is a feeling of excitement and angst with selling or keeping your belongings. I have thought of what we in the here in the west do is somewhat of an anchor to us. What I mean by that is it feels like sometimes the very thing we own actually owns us. Don't let your attachments hold you back from your happiness.
Great vlog! I just got sold mine back in October. Such a good feeling. If I can do contracting for the next 10 or so years I will have a nice little nest egg to start planning an early retirement. My goal is 55-56. Have a good one!
I did an estate sale. Was incredibly easy. I basically just walked away. They came in after I left. They moved everything out and sold it all including my car. I could have made more cash if I sold everything myself, but I didn't want to deal with it. I packed up a couple of boxes and shipped via slow boat to the Ph. Cost $150 per box which was nice for things I couldn't fit in my suitcase and things I didn't want to necessarily rebuy there. Anyway, thanks for your content. Take care there
I don’t have a lot of stuff compare to some people but when I’m ready to make a move it’s still going to be real challenge getting rid of things that have value to me.
Great subject Steve, ive been struggling a little at a time, donated a lot to goodwill and savers. Gave friends stuff that i had collected. Occasionally i have felt down because that was/is my life. Knowing what is ahead of me keeps me going. Thanks again
Merry Christmas Steve I hope you and your family will this holiday season thanks for 2022 entertainment videos waiting to see what 2023 will show us Merry Christmas!!
We sold everything we had two cars, House, sold all the furniture and a big yard sale. We gave our son stuff he wanted and stuff to store for us to use later. NOW the most important thing is what to do with that money For us we put it in the bank. Which was a little over $300.000 because our plan from the beginning 30 years ago was to just live here full time for 10 years while we were in our best health to really enjoy the Philippines and the travel.. and that we have done we love Australia, Singapore and in four years that 10 years will be over. And we know we have the money to buy a house or Villa in Venice fla with no worries. It pays to plan coming here.. So many guys here can't really travel and take advantage of being here. It's just poor planning you don't plan for retirement when you're 60 that's a plan for failure for sure.. Having peace of mind is knowing you have the money in the bank to take care of business
I had moved many times before I came to the Philippines. The hardest part is making that final decision to do it and then carrying it out. My first major move was when I was 34 and I decided to sell all my farm machinery and go to pharmacy school. The banker told me I couldn't move because I owed him a lot of money. And he said that he didn't think I could get through pharmacy school either. It pissed me off and I made a list of my old farm machinery and advertised it in the local paper at a price I knew that they would sell. It was a good feeling to come into the bank ten days later and lay down a check for $77,000. That was the full amount my loan and I laid the check down before him, shook his hand and said "There you go. You are no longer part of the decision making committee!." And I walked out. I moved many times after that but that was the hardest one. When I retired and decided to live in the Philippines on my wifes ancestral land it was the same thing. List the stuff, do some advertising and move it out. I had large yard sales every few years and my stuff always sold because I priced it to sell. We had a gay lady who collected junk in our town and she would always show up during the last hour of the sale and I would sell all the unsold stuff to her for $100. She would fill her old truck up about three times and haul it away. We were both happy. Down-sizing was always painful for me. But it is healthy too. I didn't make it in the Philippines because of health reasons. I came home after a year. But if you are interested in doing it. I say to go for it. Live your dream. It is a wonderful land with wonderful people. I miss living there. My Filipina wife came home with me so I do have a little bit of the Philippines with me. I tell my friends that I have the perfect retirement plan. I married a woman decades younger who likes to work overtime! Retirment is a piece of cake! I like to say that when I am at a table with a bunch of women's libbers eating with us. Stirring the pot is fun!
I also started down sizing, not to come to the Philippines but just to get rid of clutter and had boxes and boxes of stuff that I just had and never used in years.
Great advice….. Although, I do plan on looking into buying some land in a friend’s name (30+ year friendship), if I can find something that I like, and building a house on it when I sell mine….. I’ll look into the cost of a shipping container and the advantages of that SRRV Visa…. I’m single, not planning on a relationship, but you know how that goes….. I was stationed in Subic for 3 years, so I’m not exactly a newbie, just need some recurrent training….😁😁😁😁 I’ll also be retiring from 2 major airlines, so transportation won’t be too much of a problem…. Once again, Great Advice!!!!
Steve your advice is always good. I am 75 years old and live in Florida and right now in the process of obtaining my srrv Visa and buying a little house in Toledo Cebu. Not my first choice of places to live but that's where my friend is. I have been selling things this entire year piece by piece including my guns motorcycles and farm equipment. Hopefully I will be able to sell my house by early spring and be ready to make the move. You and several of the other expats have been my inspiration and I hope once I am there I will have the opportunity to meet all of you in person. The only personal belonging I have that I really regret having to leave is my dog due to the high cost of shipping a dog. Unfortunately because of my age I cannot really wait any longer than this. I would like to have a few years of the peace and tranquility of living in the Philippines. I was there for May and part of June this past year and although it was a culture shock at first I really love the place. Looking forward to meeting you in the future.
Now that you have been in the Philippines for a while, do you miss your tools??? I can’t imagine giving up my tools…. I think I’ll be using my tools til the day I die. And I’ve got pretty decent tools, mostly Craftsman…. Have you replaced your tools??? How’s the quality???
On October 2022, I saved about 4 lawn bags of things in storage, sent x3 Lbc large boxes to manila by sea, then had a junk removal service Empty and throw out the rest. After said and done, not so difficult. I had a property management company handle the task so much easier for me. I'm settled in Makati now.
Thanks for a great video I've been thinking for a year about what I'm going to take I plan on making two piles one of stuff I know I'm going to take another for things I would like to take I plan on doing an estate sale to get rid of everything in the house and what doesn't sell I'm going to donate to the DAV
Renting out a home is the best thing you can do. You get monthly income PLUS the property will over time continue to appreciate. Real estate ownership and rentals is the path to freedom. Otherwise people will be trying to live off their SS alone. Not a good plan
Steve your story is extremely similar to mine. I sold a few things but I gave away some things and filled a dumpster with the less valuable things. The only thing left was my scooter with 700 miles on it, less than a year old. I left that with an old friend of mine who I trust and we will split the money when he sells it for me in the spring. It is hard to sell a scooter in October in Maine, as you might imagine, and by splitting it, I know that he will get the best price for both of us. A fresh start with new things is better.
We made a couple big moves in the US and had good stuff. We did pretty much like this. It is just too time consuming trying to sell it, we always donated abiut. 80 pecent.
Point well taken about making sure you can be happy in the phils. I'm still not 100% sure. Multi month process, donated, sold, gave everything away. Brought my dog. And had 21 boxes shipped via sea cargo. (2400$ from the west coast) Hindsight is 20 20.
I came to Thailand with 2 suitcases and a few boxes of stuff that I left with my sister. The house stayed with my ex-wife. She sold my car after I left and sent me the money. First separate what you think you will bring with you overseas. It may be too much and give yourself some time to think about it. There is some stuff I sold but not much. Some stuff I gave to Goodwill and some to the recycling center. A lot of books were donated to the local library. You can digitize a lot of stuff that has sentimental value. Scan photos and documents. Take photos of objects. Finally there is the stuff you just have to throw away. I gave some expensive bottles of wine to a friend. I got rid of everything in 6 weeks while taking care of my divorce and getting my visa.
great advice - you may have discussed in the past but would like to hear from you and your contributors - how to overcome the fear of making the jump to PH?? - what helped you guys make the leap type of advice
@@stevengonyaw1617 i didnt say i retired....but when i was younger, 29, imoved to ph...rented for mayb 5 yrs....then eventually started buying property. Davao city
So much great information you hit the nail on the head that I could relate to Steve. House and all belongings were taken by my ex-wife so that's gone. I only have four things left my Colt King Cobra 357, my 1990 Cherokee, 1969 baseball cards, and my vinyl record collection. But that's just stuff right? It will be hard but I'll let those go too.
It depends on what you have too. Get a container and ship essentials. Some of the things you have in the states such as tools, tvs, car items maybe furniture, fridge depending on age, cars might be glad to have over there where things cost triple. Also great time to sort through crap and trash. The trick is if you have a job that pays for your move. Airlines does this sometimes for employees like mechanics working on Guam. Ship out a container.
This is an inspiring video, good to hear how you did it. I have been down sizing little by little. Organizing the barn for the big spring yard sale. I set up an E*trade account with a $500 yard sale score. I throw in money here and there from my down sizing sales from FB Marketplace and Craigslist. 36 months to go! I am so afraid to sell my house, duplex. Could be a cash positive, or neutral. Maybe after the first six months in country then decide.
the best dating website for a filipina is always when the filipina has enough money to fly abroad alone, she pays for the visa and flight ticket herself. she also takes out health insurance abroad at her own expense.
I plan on keeping 2 houses and a new car I just bought for at least a year. I might sell one if I find a place I like there. I have a big budget so i can afford to keep everything. Friend can drive car for me its insured. Property just goes up in value so might rent one out.
At age 45; I'm ready to sell our house (mortgage free) bound for P.I. this July; my only challenge is a safety net, if things does not pan out in P.I; as a newly retired service member; I'm a firm believer of secondary plan; a secondary parachute in case the 1st fails...😂😊
I am married to a Filipina so it was easy selling my things. But I also knew that finding quality items in the Philippines was hard. I sent 10 Balkibayan boxes to my wife. Once I got here I thought I don't need all this stuff
Great video. I always gain some knowledge from your videos that I put to use. I’m in a bit of a different situation than you. I’m getting ready to come to the Philippines for 3-6 months after which I’m returning to the USA with my Filipina. We will be traveling around the USA until the fall when she and I are going to the U.K. for a few months. After that its back to the USA and decide where we want to stay, 🇺🇸 or 🇵🇭. So I’m probably to end up with two homes lol crazy I know. The silver lining is her mother and her aunt will live in our home in the 🇵🇭 and my mum will be in our home in the USA. That way both homes are occupied and taken care of and both our mothers will have no rent/mortgage/utilities to worry about. So my issue is what items do I leave in each location and what do I drag around with me. First world problems I know lol 😂. Anyway, thanks for another great video. Cheers
I did things a little different I kept my duplex in Florida and rent one side out while keeping the other side for me to vacation back home in for 2 months every year. I keep my truck to get around when I'm their so your right I do pay for my insurance on it every year of $450.00 dollars. For being able to use it the kids take it in for a tune up and oil changes every year. My renter is my daughter and her husband so I trust him and her to take care of my investment. With the cost of renting in Florida going sky high they feel like I'm helping them save to buy land and build their new house. $550.00 dollars a month for rent is nothing in Clearwater Florida and it's a win win for them and me not only do they save on rent but they rent their own house out for over twice what they pay me. If the time comes that I am to old to travel back to the states then I will either sell my duplex and split the money between the kids or not sell it but just keep it and will it to the kids upon my death. I have 6 property's here in the Philippines and 3 houses, my soon to be wife has no interest in moving to the states and won't be wanting anything I own in Florida. But has said if I want her to vacation with me in Florida she's willing to try that once to make me happy. I vacationed in the Philippines every year for 20 years knowing I would be living in the Philippines most of the year when I retired because like you I got tired of all the devisevness and being treated like a nothing because I was an older white man. Funny I was the invisible man their and a human being here, people are actually happy to see and hear from me here in the Philippines. But your right I got rid of the majority of my things before moving here, giving away to friends, my son got a large moving uhaul truck full and the" Good Well " got some items as well. I did pack 4 large boxes bringing the things I truly knew I needed to live here that I couldn't or didn't want to re-buy here. I sent the boxes overseas shipping, Each box was about 150 ibs, the cost back in April was $80.00 dollar per box to ship to my home here in the Philippines and took about 3 months to get here. I've been told because of inflation in the states now to expect to pay $100.00 to $125.00 to ship a box of 150 ibs from Tampa Bay Florida now. Good video Steve thanks again, Merry Christmas.
Great video as usual and really think your content is amazing, I'd have a different approach on this topic but I'm not from the states and I'm younger, i dont know your housing situations over there but I would never sell I'd rent taxes are minor when living abroad well they are where I'm from in europe and simple to have your house taking care of with more than enough money made from rent alone to live there in your sweet spot even if low end 2500 perfect or 2000 say but maybe your rent is lower on your house but still its income and you can sell in the future if you wanted and you need a plan B a house in your home country allows you to build another plan if you you ever needed to plus you a big lump sum if ever needed Why not just buy a condo over there and let the agency rent it for you they will offer you a certain amount a month and if you happy with that let them rent it yea they will rent for more but again its income hassel free and put that towards your rent of your house since you cant own the land, im 44 my girlfriend coming to live with me for 3 months then I'll take a year out to live prob in bohol and see how I like it, I've vacationed for a month hitting usual spots but feel I'd need a year minimum to live there to see if it's for me. I'll look around to see what sort of business I could open well I already know a few 😅 but more as a hobby but Ive been self employed along time in my own country and abroad so I know what I'm doing, anyhow just adding my 2 cents for what it's worth to anyone reading.
Great show today Steve. I'm doing the same thing taking 2 big trollies and one carry on. My move date is this January 22 I have a LDR with a wonderful Filipina it's been an awesome two years with her. I have been planning on moving their for a long time. My plan is a bit different though. She has a house in Bacolod that we build a big bedroom with modern CR and aircon...lol. But I plan on living part time in Thailand also. My hope is to buy a condo in Thailand or rent long term if I find a good deal... Willie stuck in Seattle
Great Video 📹 very good advice. I'm selling my house and everything in it unless my children want it. Give all my weapons to my son. Selling the truck last. I will ship 🚢 some boxes 📦 over via UMAC Express Cargo. 3 size boxes 📦. Any weight. I have shipped several boxes 📦 to families 👪 in need. $140 USD is the most expensive. Jumbo size, from one of the Philippines 🇵🇭 stores here. Easy. Will take a month to get there by ship, and the a week to 3 weeks to get to final destination by delivery truck 🚚 from the Port of Manila. Stay Safe 💕 💞 🙏 🙏
Good topic. You should do a video on what to use for a domicile address in USA (required for checking accounts & brokerage accounts) when you don't have anybody's address that you can use for that purpose. The last thing I need is to be in the Philippines and find out my accounts (checking and/or brokerage accounts) have locked me out.
I think some ppl will sell the majority of their belongings to help fund their Emergency or savings fund instead of giving away so much to others unless it is personal family items as you say
My relative moved to Philippines a few years ago, He sold his main house, kept 3 rentals. He moved to Philippines in 2019 sold his house for $420K, purchased 10 year earlier for $240K. Well pandemic hit USA his house will sell for $750K. He lost over $300K.
I have a house in town that I have not lived in the last 6 months or so and got a letter from the city about a 200$ vacant house fee there is a ordnance no house can be left empty more than 60 days that's sounds like some BS but its a thing here lucky i am here and can take care of it but if I was over seas that would be a mess
Yeah I’m starting to take pictures with my cell phone of photographs that I will leave behind. Just curious Steve what did you do with your pictures? Very good subject by the way not a lot of bloggers talk about this.
Interesting subject. I have 4 years before I'm looking at leaving Australia but I'm already thinking about how I'm going to clear my stuff out. I have so much sentimental stuff that'll kill me to dispose of. I haven't decided where I'm moving to yet, or if I'll settle in one place; I just know I'm going. One thing I'm not prepared to do is sell my house. I'm going to rent it out and get some income from it but it's important to me to have somewhere I can go back to if I need to one day. I guess it's different for everyone
Yeah the same with me Dave I think I’m gonna rent my house out I will hire a service that does all the work for you I believe they get first months rent and then a small fee monthly after that.
philippines is the best man. get a young pnay and you will live long with her kisses. they are romantic and caring. thailanders have body odor they eat spicy foods.
Thank you. I literally just started trying to figure this piece out. I am so ready to move there. 40yrs of stuff. What did you do with your military memorabilia??
Well, I may visit there for 3 months instead of full time as a retired guy because I have family member with special needs. The money thing due to the patriot act isn't a deal breaker but family is. If anything changes I wouldn't mind staying there just because of the people.
You say Cars Deteriorate Fast When They Sit There, But Guss What, House's Do As Well. As a Matter of Fact, An Empty House Is Just Like An Empty Car. It Will Deteriorate 3 Times Faster than a House That's Occupied !
2 ex-wives got most of the valuable atuff, then I gave a lot away to a women's children battered center pictures an stuff like that my son took his house
Get rid of stuff not really hassle, but my great concern is how my retirement funds access ? Heard so much about some people settle in the 🇵🇭 having issues about having access of their funds. I leave all by myself here in the 🇺🇸 . Yes i am Fil Am, came here was young age. I wanted to retire back in the 🇵🇭 quite honest Battle 😕 i am little lost on the sauce when it comes on process much more accessing my funds there from here ? I have been watching you all vlogers back there, and im getting so much different info from each everyone 😮😅. I would like to know more from you if it's okay 👌 with you and hoping is not to much of asking ✌😎 I would like to know how would i reach out with you ? Looking forward your feedback and thank you so very much. 🇺🇸 WV
hey old man paradise on earth in the phil if you have money and young pnay as partner, you will live long with her kisses. there are many foreignes dreaming to marry pnay. they are the best. romantic and caring.
why somebody i would do that ???? have family links back home !!!! philippines is not that good , dont care what anybody says hahahha !!!! nice to spend part of your life here but no way im cutting my roots back home !!! totally dumb idea !!!
Thank you for the encouraging show today, and the comments on this will be very helpful too, great channel, great subscribers as well.
Thanks Tom 🙏🏻👍
good information and very relevant to moving fulltime to another country , thank you
Our pleasure!
I decided to leave my birth country 5 years before I got on the plane with 7kg on my back. During those 5 years I bought very little for the house. As things failed I didn't replace it. I sold the house with all of the furniture and appliances included. At the end it was just one run to the landfill in the rented car. The new owner took me to airport for the freedom flight.
Having nothing is a liberating thing. For 6 years I have adopted the minimalist approach and love it.
Hello Steve, Chuck from Canada, been watching your vids for awhile and totally convinced to retire there,, like you,,tired of all the drama here, drug dealers for neighbors, thieves, etc,, and this in a small town, I am in the process of selling and downsizing everything, Just sold my 2022 Ford XLT Superduty,, 5th wheel is next,, working on selling that, and it is amazing how over the years you accumulate all this stuff, I am literally nickel and dimeing myself to the Phillipines lol,, I just want to jump on the plane now and get there,, but this has to be done smart,, your videos help me out big time, and very much appreciate it, Going to Thailand in November December, for a month,, check things out and have a dental appointment there, cannot afford Dental here in Canada, no no benifits, ,, Won't get into too much detail will save it for a coffee with you in person,,,Just wanted to say HI and thanks again for all the good advice,, will keep watching,,,
"How I got Rid of all my Belongings before Becoming an Expat !!"
Yeah, it's called divorce. 😆
You put a free pickup ad and I don't know where so many people came from!!
Thanks! Great information.
Glad it was helpful!
I sold my house fully furnished, appliances and tv's still on the wall. I sold all the cars. We then packed up what we valued to us personally along with some consumables. That equated to 32 LBC boxes. The stuff like tools and household items we sold in a garage sale. We made $4600 on the garage sale. This more than covered shipping our boxes. I still came with 3 check-in bags, a carry-on, and a backpack. Once here re-furnished the house and got cars here. This fit us. I did take quite a few loads of clothing, shoes and bedding to the Goodwill.
Wow!
That's an epic garage sale.
I'm finally coming. My stereo equipment is too important to me and would definitely cost too much to replace in the Philippines so I'm using a moving company. I've had two quotes for 7,200 lb. I have less than that though. One quote for $16, 000 USD and my second quote for 11,000 USD $280 a month for storage once my furniture gets there. Hopefully I'll be there before the furniture gets there though. The SSRV is $7,000 duty free. Thanks for the education! 😎
My brother introduced me to mercari to sell things and I really liked it. eBay had too many scammers, and Amazon now requires authorization to sell a lot of electronics and things, either proof you’re a business or you have the receipt. No I don’t have my receipt for my video games I bought years ago. Fb marketplace is also pretty good. I tried offer up and got some views but no sales unfortunately, but what I like about mercari is you can even deliver it by a 3rd party member to come get it so it’s extra safe for both of you.
Funny thing Trece, you and I have the same state retirement pension. I am a retired Court Officer for the Trial Court of MA. And I am at the point of selling off everything that we have and boy have we accumulated a bunch of stuff. Whatever you sold off, multiply that by ten times and that's what I have to get rid of. But we have been doing this for several years now and are getting rather good at it. We also have a store front where we will be opening up 6 days a week as a thrift store getting rid of even more. Our move is planned for October this year. We at one time were going to go the 40 foot container thing but we have decided not to after coming up with what it would cost with agents and all, and you even have to pay the PH government to x-ray the container. So we decided to just send what we think we will need by Balikbayan box, much easier and more cost effective.
We head out in 36 months,started getting rid of stuff a year ago,,,good video,good advice.
I completely dumped my past when I chose to come to the Philippines. I had already been screwed to the tune of two million USD by my, Western, ex-wife. She tried to do me over, but my Filipina partner knew what was going on and she supported me, because she also knew that I had a lot in reserve. As a comment I have read below states, "I sold out at the top of the market." Yes, so did I, and maybe I got lucky, but we are doing just dandy. We started anew because we opted for a new life with no ghosts from the past.
I could totally wait late to that bro my ex-wife cost me 400 Grand and left me with nothing but it's okay I want love peace and happiness
Yup, good video. Two bags and a carry-on. I will probably do one Balikbayan box with a couple electronics and a favorite tool or two. Start fresh. 13 months to go, and in the process of minimizing to nothingness.
Great tips. For a big part of my life I moved every two years for work. In the beginning I would pack a whole 3 bedroom house into a moving truck and drive. Buy the end I would just get rid of everything but my clothes and get on a plane. It was expensive to keep starting over, but so much more convenient and stress free, plus I found that I had fun rebuilding. So much in life is perception and how we approach a situation.
The hardest thing to give up was my car. I sold it 2 days before I got on the plane. I packed 2 suitcases with my summer clothes and gave my son lot of personal things that I had been saving. I have no personal belongings left behind.
Shipping rates went crazy for a while, up to $30k to ship a container, but it's back down to more reasonable rates. You can probably ship a 40 ft. container for around $2k now. It might be worth it if you have a big workshop with a lot of tools or something.
Magandag Hapon Po! I stopped keeping up with the “Jones” a very long time ago. When I retired I stayed long term at Countries of Mexico and Philippines. Got a chance to experience life during the virus at the Philippines. LGUs we’re simply to strict, lasted 6 months. Just got back in country, feels good to be back.
Maraming Salamat for what you do Po.
Mabuhay
Sold my 4 bed, 2 bath house in Tacoma. Shipped all my possessions to MN to my kids, let them pick out what they wanted for themselves (some few items are being stored for me by one of my son's, they will be his when I no longer need them). Had a yard sale with the rest, then Goodwill picked what was left over and took remainder to the dump. Packed 2 suitcases to move to the Philippines, could have left one behind. Started over clean here in Philippines. After 9 months here, best decision I ever made.
Excellent advice Steve... yes it is part of your past, but the journey starts with a single step and you've been a guide post for others.
I just sold my house at the top of the market…selling my stuff slowly….some stuff I’ll take down to the kids in Texas. I’m preparing for the move and the crash
When I moved interstate in Australia last year, two days after the border opened, I decided to travel light. I could take 23kg on the plane and 80 kg in the car, which I freighted. I essentially did the same. Abd I felt it was good karma. But I still go to the drawer to get a tool and then realise that was in the old house. Ah well...I brought all my memories with me...and my hard drive.
Great video today. That is one of the hardest things to do with moving abroad. There is a feeling of excitement and angst with selling or keeping your belongings. I have thought of what we in the here in the west do is somewhat of an anchor to us. What I mean by that is it feels like sometimes the very thing we own actually owns us. Don't let your attachments hold you back from your happiness.
Great vlog! I just got sold mine back in October. Such a good feeling. If I can do contracting for the next 10 or so years I will have a nice little nest egg to start planning an early retirement. My goal is 55-56. Have a good one!
I did an estate sale. Was incredibly easy. I basically just walked away. They came in after I left. They moved everything out and sold it all including my car. I could have made more cash if I sold everything myself, but I didn't want to deal with it. I packed up a couple of boxes and shipped via slow boat to the Ph. Cost $150 per box which was nice for things I couldn't fit in my suitcase and things I didn't want to necessarily rebuy there. Anyway, thanks for your content. Take care there
I don’t have a lot of stuff compare to some people but when I’m ready to make a move it’s still going to be real challenge getting rid of things that have value to me.
Watch a few episodes of Hoarders and you will be encouraged to depart your stuff/junk.
Thanks for posting.
Great subject Steve, ive been struggling a little at a time, donated a lot to goodwill and savers. Gave friends stuff that i had collected. Occasionally i have felt down because that was/is my life. Knowing what is ahead of me keeps me going. Thanks again
Merry Christmas Steve I hope you and your family will this holiday season thanks for 2022 entertainment videos waiting to see what 2023 will show us Merry Christmas!!
We sold everything we had two cars, House, sold all the furniture and a big yard sale. We gave our son stuff he wanted and stuff to store for us to use later. NOW the most important thing is what to do with that money For us we put it in the bank. Which was a little over $300.000 because our plan from the beginning 30 years ago was to just live here full time for 10 years while we were in our best health to really enjoy the Philippines and the travel.. and that we have done we love Australia, Singapore and in four years that 10 years will be over. And we know we have the money to buy a house or Villa in Venice fla with no worries. It pays to plan coming here.. So many guys here can't really travel and take advantage of being here. It's just poor planning you don't plan for retirement when you're 60 that's a plan for failure for sure.. Having peace of mind is knowing you have the money in the bank to take care of business
I had moved many times before I came to the Philippines. The hardest part is making that final decision to do it and then carrying it out. My first major move was when I was 34 and I decided to sell all my farm machinery and go to pharmacy school. The banker told me I couldn't move because I owed him a lot of money. And he said that he didn't think I could get through pharmacy school either. It pissed me off and I made a list of my old farm machinery and advertised it in the local paper at a price I knew that they would sell. It was a good feeling to come into the bank ten days later and lay down a check for $77,000. That was the full amount my loan and I laid the check down before him, shook his hand and said "There you go. You are no longer part of the decision making committee!." And I walked out. I moved many times after that but that was the hardest one. When I retired and decided to live in the Philippines on my wifes ancestral land it was the same thing. List the stuff, do some advertising and move it out. I had large yard sales every few years and my stuff always sold because I priced it to sell. We had a gay lady who collected junk in our town and she would always show up during the last hour of the sale and I would sell all the unsold stuff to her for $100. She would fill her old truck up about three times and haul it away. We were both happy. Down-sizing was always painful for me. But it is healthy too. I didn't make it in the Philippines because of health reasons. I came home after a year. But if you are interested in doing it. I say to go for it. Live your dream. It is a wonderful land with wonderful people. I miss living there. My Filipina wife came home with me so I do have a little bit of the Philippines with me. I tell my friends that I have the perfect retirement plan. I married a woman decades younger who likes to work overtime! Retirment is a piece of cake! I like to say that when I am at a table with a bunch of women's libbers eating with us. Stirring the pot is fun!
I also started down sizing, not to come to the Philippines but just to get rid of clutter and had boxes and boxes of stuff that I just had and never used in years.
Great advice….. Although, I do plan on looking into buying some land in a friend’s name (30+ year friendship), if I can find something that I like, and building a house on it when I sell mine….. I’ll look into the cost of a shipping container and the advantages of that SRRV Visa…. I’m single, not planning on a relationship, but you know how that goes….. I was stationed in Subic for 3 years, so I’m not exactly a newbie, just need some recurrent training….😁😁😁😁 I’ll also be retiring from 2 major airlines, so transportation won’t be too much of a problem…. Once again, Great Advice!!!!
Great information Steve - it's always best to have a plan when you finally decide to move.
Steve your advice is always good. I am 75 years old and live in Florida and right now in the process of obtaining my srrv Visa and buying a little house in Toledo Cebu. Not my first choice of places to live but that's where my friend is. I have been selling things this entire year piece by piece including my guns motorcycles and farm equipment. Hopefully I will be able to sell my house by early spring and be ready to make the move. You and several of the other expats have been my inspiration and I hope once I am there I will have the opportunity to meet all of you in person. The only personal belonging I have that I really regret having to leave is my dog due to the high cost of shipping a dog. Unfortunately because of my age I cannot really wait any longer than this. I would like to have a few years of the peace and tranquility of living in the Philippines. I was there for May and part of June this past year and although it was a culture shock at first I really love the place. Looking forward to meeting you in the future.
Thanks,God Bless
Renting your house is a good monthly income
Now that you have been in the Philippines for a while, do you miss your tools??? I can’t imagine giving up my tools…. I think I’ll be using my tools til the day I die. And I’ve got pretty decent tools, mostly Craftsman…. Have you replaced your tools??? How’s the quality???
On October 2022, I saved about 4 lawn bags of things in storage, sent x3 Lbc large boxes to manila by sea, then had a junk removal service Empty and throw out the rest. After said and done, not so difficult. I had a property management company handle the task so much easier for me. I'm settled in Makati now.
Thanks for a great video I've been thinking for a year about what I'm going to take I plan on making two piles one of stuff I know I'm going to take another for things I would like to take I plan on doing an estate sale to get rid of everything in the house and what doesn't sell I'm going to donate to the DAV
3.3 year 1500 sf house. down to 2.5 rooms. most only cloths and laptop some paintings but plan to unframe and have reframed when I get settled.
Renting out a home is the best thing you can do. You get monthly income PLUS the property will over time continue to appreciate. Real estate ownership and rentals is the path to freedom. Otherwise people will be trying to live off their SS alone. Not a good plan
Steve your story is extremely similar to mine. I sold a few things but I gave away some things and filled a dumpster with the less valuable things. The only thing left was my scooter with 700 miles on it, less than a year old. I left that with an old friend of mine who I trust and we will split the money when he sells it for me in the spring. It is hard to sell a scooter in October in Maine, as you might imagine, and by splitting it, I know that he will get the best price for both of us. A fresh start with new things is better.
We made a couple big moves in the US and had good stuff. We did pretty much like this. It is just too time consuming trying to sell it, we always donated abiut. 80 pecent.
Point well taken about making sure you can be happy in the phils. I'm still not 100% sure. Multi month process, donated, sold, gave everything away. Brought my dog. And had 21 boxes shipped via sea cargo. (2400$ from the west coast) Hindsight is 20 20.
Great comments! Less is more. I’m keeping my house and guest house because I will rent them out furnished - Geographic arbitrage.
I came to Thailand with 2 suitcases and a few boxes of stuff that I left with my sister. The house stayed with my ex-wife. She sold my car after I left and sent me the money. First separate what you think you will bring with you overseas. It may be too much and give yourself some time to think about it. There is some stuff I sold but not much. Some stuff I gave to Goodwill and some to the recycling center. A lot of books were donated to the local library. You can digitize a lot of stuff that has sentimental value. Scan photos and documents. Take photos of objects. Finally there is the stuff you just have to throw away. I gave some expensive bottles of wine to a friend. I got rid of everything in 6 weeks while taking care of my divorce and getting my visa.
great advice - you may have discussed in the past but would like to hear from you and your contributors - how to overcome the fear of making the jump to PH?? - what helped you guys make the leap type of advice
Leave everything..start new...2 seabags all u need..thats what i did ...i was 29 yrs old.
And how could you afford to retire and move there at 29 ? Just curious
@@stevengonyaw1617 i didnt say i retired....but when i was younger, 29, imoved to ph...rented for mayb 5 yrs....then eventually started buying property. Davao city
So much great information you hit the nail on the head that I could relate to Steve. House and all belongings were taken by my ex-wife so that's gone. I only have four things left my Colt King Cobra 357, my 1990 Cherokee, 1969 baseball cards, and my vinyl record collection. But that's just stuff right? It will be hard but I'll let those go too.
It depends on what you have too. Get a container and ship essentials. Some of the things you have in the states such as tools, tvs, car items maybe furniture, fridge depending on age, cars might be glad to have over there where things cost triple. Also great time to sort through crap and trash. The trick is if you have a job that pays for your move. Airlines does this sometimes for employees like mechanics working on Guam. Ship out a container.
This is an inspiring video, good to hear how you did it. I have been down sizing little by little. Organizing the barn for the big spring yard sale. I set up an E*trade account with a $500 yard sale score. I throw in money here and there from my down sizing sales from FB Marketplace and Craigslist. 36 months to go! I am so afraid to sell my house, duplex. Could be a cash positive, or neutral. Maybe after the first six months in country then decide.
the best dating website for a filipina is always when the filipina has enough money to fly abroad alone, she pays for the visa and flight ticket herself. she also takes out health insurance abroad at her own expense.
Great recommendations. Thanks. Merry Christmas.
I plan on keeping 2 houses and a new car I just bought for at least a year. I might sell one if I find a place I like there. I have a big budget so i can afford to keep everything. Friend can drive car for me its insured. Property just goes up in value so might rent one out.
At age 45; I'm ready to sell our house (mortgage free) bound for P.I. this July; my only challenge is a safety net, if things does not pan out in P.I; as a newly retired service member; I'm a firm believer of secondary plan; a secondary parachute in case the 1st fails...😂😊
I'm flying Qatar airline (economy) to the Phils, My Checked bag limit is 23Kgs & carry on is 8Kg
I am married to a Filipina so it was easy selling my things. But I also knew that finding quality items in the Philippines was hard. I sent 10 Balkibayan boxes to my wife. Once I got here I thought I don't need all this stuff
Great video. I always gain some knowledge from your videos that I put to use. I’m in a bit of a different situation than you. I’m getting ready to come to the Philippines for 3-6 months after which I’m returning to the USA with my Filipina. We will be traveling around the USA until the fall when she and I are going to the U.K. for a few months. After that its back to the USA and decide where we want to stay, 🇺🇸 or 🇵🇭. So I’m probably to end up with two homes lol crazy I know. The silver lining is her mother and her aunt will live in our home in the 🇵🇭 and my mum will be in our home in the USA. That way both homes are occupied and taken care of and both our mothers will have no rent/mortgage/utilities to worry about.
So my issue is what items do I leave in each location and what do I drag around with me. First world problems I know lol 😂.
Anyway, thanks for another great video. Cheers
I did things a little different I kept my duplex in Florida and rent one side out while keeping the other side for me to vacation back home in for 2 months every year.
I keep my truck to get around when I'm their so your right I do pay for my insurance on it every year of $450.00 dollars.
For being able to use it the kids take it in for a tune up and oil changes every year.
My renter is my daughter and her husband so I trust him and her to take care of my investment.
With the cost of renting in Florida going sky high they feel like I'm helping them save to buy land and build their new house. $550.00 dollars a month for rent is nothing in Clearwater Florida and it's a win win for them and me not only do they save on rent but they rent their own house out for over twice what they pay me.
If the time comes that I am to old to travel back to the states then I will either sell my duplex and split the money between the kids or not sell it but just keep it and will it to the kids upon my death.
I have 6 property's here in the Philippines and 3 houses, my soon to be wife has no interest in moving to the states and won't be wanting anything I own in Florida.
But has said if I want her to vacation with me in Florida she's willing to try that once to make me happy.
I vacationed in the Philippines every year for 20 years knowing I would be living in the Philippines most of the year when I retired because like you I got tired of all the devisevness and being treated like a nothing because I was an older white man.
Funny I was the invisible man their and a human being here, people are actually happy to see and hear from me here in the Philippines.
But your right I got rid of the majority of my things before moving here, giving away to friends, my son got a large moving uhaul truck full and the" Good Well " got some items as well.
I did pack 4 large boxes bringing the things I truly knew I needed to live here that I couldn't or didn't want to re-buy here.
I sent the boxes overseas shipping, Each box was about 150 ibs, the cost back in April was $80.00 dollar per box to ship to my home here in the Philippines and took about 3 months to get here.
I've been told because of inflation in the states now to expect to pay $100.00 to $125.00 to ship a box of 150 ibs from Tampa Bay Florida now.
Good video Steve thanks again, Merry Christmas.
Great video as usual and really think your content is amazing, I'd have a different approach on this topic but I'm not from the states and I'm younger, i dont know your housing situations over there but I would never sell I'd rent taxes are minor when living abroad well they are where I'm from in europe and simple to have your house taking care of with more than enough money made from rent alone to live there in your sweet spot even if low end 2500 perfect or 2000 say but maybe your rent is lower on your house but still its income and you can sell in the future if you wanted and you need a plan B a house in your home country allows you to build another plan if you you ever needed to plus you a big lump sum if ever needed Why not just buy a condo over there and let the agency rent it for you they will offer you a certain amount a month and if you happy with that let them rent it yea they will rent for more but again its income hassel free and put that towards your rent of your house since you cant own the land, im 44 my girlfriend coming to live with me for 3 months then I'll take a year out to live prob in bohol and see how I like it, I've vacationed for a month hitting usual spots but feel I'd need a year minimum to live there to see if it's for me. I'll look around to see what sort of business I could open well I already know a few 😅 but more as a hobby but Ive been self employed along time in my own country and abroad so I know what I'm doing, anyhow just adding my 2 cents for what it's worth to anyone reading.
If you don't know anyone in the PH, is there a way to send a Balikbayan box to somewhere where it can be stored and then picked up once I get there?
Great show today Steve. I'm doing the same thing taking 2 big trollies and one carry on. My move date is this January 22 I have a LDR with a wonderful Filipina it's been an awesome two years with her. I have been planning on moving their for a long time. My plan is a bit different though. She has a house in Bacolod that we build a big bedroom with modern CR and aircon...lol. But I plan on living part time in Thailand also. My hope is to buy a condo in Thailand or rent long term if I find a good deal...
Willie stuck in Seattle
Great Video 📹 very good advice. I'm selling my house and everything in it unless my children want it. Give all my weapons to my son. Selling the truck last. I will ship 🚢 some boxes 📦 over via UMAC Express Cargo. 3 size boxes 📦. Any weight. I have shipped several boxes 📦 to families 👪 in need. $140 USD is the most expensive. Jumbo size, from one of the Philippines 🇵🇭 stores here. Easy. Will take a month to get there by ship, and the a week to 3 weeks to get to final destination by delivery truck 🚚 from the Port of Manila.
Stay Safe 💕 💞 🙏 🙏
Good topic. You should do a video on what to use for a domicile address in USA (required for checking accounts & brokerage accounts) when you don't have anybody's address that you can use for that purpose. The last thing I need is to be in the Philippines and find out my accounts (checking and/or brokerage accounts) have locked me out.
I think some ppl will sell the majority of their belongings to help fund their Emergency or savings fund instead of giving away so much to others unless it is personal family items as you say
Merry Christmas Philippines🌴❣
My relative moved to Philippines a few years ago, He sold his main house, kept 3 rentals. He moved to Philippines in 2019 sold his house for $420K, purchased 10 year earlier for $240K. Well pandemic hit USA his house will sell for $750K. He lost over $300K.
How many trips to the Phil’s did you do prior to making a decision to live?
I have a house in town that I have not lived in the last 6 months or so and got a letter from the city about a 200$ vacant house fee there is a ordnance no house can be left empty more than 60 days that's sounds like some BS but its a thing here lucky i am here and can take care of it but if I was over seas that would be a mess
I would camp out in the house 1 night every 60 days! That's messed up that the city can force you how and when to live in your own house 😠
Yeah I’m starting to take pictures with my cell phone of photographs that I will leave behind. Just curious Steve what did you do with your pictures? Very good subject by the way not a lot of bloggers talk about this.
I have some pics here and some on my phone.
Interesting subject. I have 4 years before I'm looking at leaving Australia but I'm already thinking about how I'm going to clear my stuff out. I have so much sentimental stuff that'll kill me to dispose of. I haven't decided where I'm moving to yet, or if I'll settle in one place; I just know I'm going. One thing I'm not prepared to do is sell my house. I'm going to rent it out and get some income from it but it's important to me to have somewhere I can go back to if I need to one day. I guess it's different for everyone
Yeah the same with me Dave I think I’m gonna rent my house out I will hire a service that does all the work for you I believe they get first months rent and then a small fee monthly after that.
philippines is the best man. get a young pnay and you will live long with her kisses. they are romantic and caring. thailanders have body odor they eat spicy foods.
Thank you. I literally just started trying to figure this piece out. I am so ready to move there. 40yrs of stuff. What did you do with your military memorabilia??
I got two sheds full of “stuff.”
I'll be having a harley davidson trike shipped over with a spare power train in case anything goes wrong with it.
i am packing as i see this
Well, I may visit there for 3 months instead of full time as a retired guy because I have family member with special needs. The money thing due to the patriot act isn't a deal breaker but family is. If anything changes I wouldn't mind staying there just because of the people.
Here in Quezon city they are not stricked on dress code, at imagraton I've been going for years shorts and t shirt
You say Cars Deteriorate Fast When They Sit There, But Guss What, House's Do As Well.
As a Matter of Fact, An Empty House Is Just Like An Empty Car.
It Will Deteriorate 3 Times Faster than a House That's Occupied !
Turning my property into a hunting lodge. Management company to run it...
Another possibility is to put ur house and stuff in a trust.
Hi Steve ,where is the best places to stay in the Philippines ?
Depends
2 ex-wives got most of the valuable atuff, then I gave a lot away to a women's children battered center pictures an stuff like that my son took his house
Get rid of stuff not really hassle, but my great concern is how my retirement funds access ? Heard so much about some people settle in the 🇵🇭 having issues about having access of their funds.
I leave all by myself here in the 🇺🇸 . Yes i am Fil Am, came here was young age.
I wanted to retire back in the 🇵🇭 quite honest Battle 😕 i am little lost on the sauce when it comes on process much more accessing my funds there from here ?
I have been watching you all vlogers back there, and im getting so much different info from each everyone 😮😅.
I would like to know more from you if it's okay 👌 with you and hoping is not to much of asking ✌😎 I would like to know how would i reach out with you ?
Looking forward your feedback and thank you so very much.
🇺🇸 WV
Steven5975@yahoo.com and ask for my phone numbers.
Steven5975@yahoo.com
You need to learn non-attachment, it’s not easy - everyone I mean
Am I allowed to bring my handgun with me to the PH?
NO
No
hey old man paradise on earth in the phil if you have money and young pnay as partner, you will live long with her kisses. there are many foreignes dreaming to marry pnay. they are the best. romantic and caring.
why somebody i would do that ???? have family links back home !!!! philippines is not that good , dont care what anybody says hahahha !!!! nice to spend part of your life here but no way im cutting my roots back home !!! totally dumb idea !!!
College football.