Where you currently live you have family and friends, good schools, local parks, and a safe neighborhood. It’s a quality of life you want to keep. However, throughout your life, there will be times that will benefit a move such as a better job, a growing family, or your retirement.
Finding a New Home
Your current residence is comfortable for every member of the family. You want the new home to provide the same. On your must list are good schools, living in the safest neighborhoods and having access to shopping and parks within a short walking distance.
The Cost of Moving
Moving is not cheap as said by ApartmentTherapy. The moving company alone will run well into the thousands. You’ll also have packing supplies and need to clean your current residence from top to bottom. Additionally, the movers will arrive up to a week after your arrival. This means that you will need to find a place to sleep for a few days and spend money eating out.
Finding Qualified Movers
At the top of your list is the need for hiring professional movers. Not all companies are reputable and some charge quite a bit more than others. Since everything you own will be under their personal care, it’s in your best interest to conduct a thorough search to find the best one at the best price. Consumer reports and word of mouth are two good sources.
The Written Estimate
Once you hire a company you trust, you will receive a written estimate containing a breakdown of the pricing. Remember that it’s just an estimate and it can go down or up depending on changes. For instance, if you decide to move mid-week versus the weekend, you’ll save money. If you change your move to the off-season, you’ll save money. Reducing your inventory means taking up less space on the truck, resulting in a lower cost.
Packing Up
On your written estimate there is a fee for an allocated number of boxes. There’s also a fee for packing up the home. If you decide to provide the boxes and pack your things on your own, you can enjoy considerable savings. Thankfully, finding free boxes is pretty easy. A trip to your local grocery or liquor store should provide an ample supply. However, make sure to pay close attention to the size and number of boxes on the written estimate. If you acquire larger boxes or fill a greater number of boxes, you’ll end up paying more.
When in Doubt Leave it Behind
Once you start going through your home you’ll find many items previously forgotten. Unless these items are heirlooms, it’s best to put them up for sale online, have a garage sale, or donate them to charity. The more you bring, the more the move will cost you. Now is the time to purge.
Separation and Children
Adults are older and while leaving behind a dear friend and familiar surroundings may make you sad, you adapt. Children, however, are still young. Formed bonds with other children are not as easy to remove. They may cry and refuse to go. Having a talk in advance and including them in with the plans will allow your children to see the bright side, the opportunity to make new friends and experience new places.
Moving across the country requires careful planning and money. If you are willing to do some of the heavy labor, acquire your own boxes, and pack up on your own, you can reduce the cost and make moving more affordable.
Speak Your Mind