Don't wait until the last minute to start preparing for your move! If you do, you are certain to raise your anxiety level and your costs as well. Consider the following things early in the home buying process:
Will you hire a moving company or move your furnishings yourself? Either way you can save money by combining both options.
Involve the family early on in the decision and get them excited - or at least comfortable with the idea. Children are bound to be worried about losing friends, starting in a new school or getting to know the neighborhood. By involving them early, you can set a positive tone and create some excitement about the new home and neighborhood. Proper planning should minimize problems.
Remain calm! With so much to coordinate some things may go wrong. Proper planning should minimize problems but remember to stay focused on the positive - the reasons you are making the move such as a newer house, better neighborhood, job promotion etc.
Ask your real estate agent for help! They are professionals who are trained to help your home buying process be as successful and enjoyable as possible. They are a great source for advice in every aspect of the process.
Tips on Packing
Packing your household goods can save a substantial amount of money. To insure safety for your belongings, care should be undertaken to pack properly.
- Use strong containers, in good condition, which can be sealed with strapping tape. These can be purchased locally from moving companies
- Keep in mind what the box will weigh after it is loaded - 40 to 50 pounds is considered the maximum
- Empty spaces in boxes should be filled with crumpled newspaper or bubble wrap to keep things from shifting in transit
- Books should be stacked on end and generally in smaller boxes than other things due to their weight
- Label each box after packing, first, so that the movers will know which room to put it in and secondly, to help you to prioritize which ones need to be opened first
- Remove all breakables from drawers before moving furniture
- Do not pack valuables such as jewelry, collections, checks or savings books
- Packing takes longer than you expect so allow plenty of time
- Pack items that are not frequently used first and unpack them last
- Organization in packing will save you hours of time and frustration in the long run
- Items that are no longer wanted can be donated to charity and you may be eligible for a tax deduction
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