TOP 5 HOME MOVING TIPS
I posted a blog a few weeks back about the Stamp Duty Holiday. If you didn’t have chance to read it then you can do so here. It got me thinking about how many people will be moving home over the coming months and just how stressful people will find it.
I think if I was to ask you to tell me the top 5 most stressful things you could do, moving house would be up there. Yes, while owning a new home is exciting, the process of moving itself isn’t something that most people look forward to, but with a little planning and knowing a few little tips it won’t be as bad as you might think!
With that in mind, here are my TOP 5 MOVING HOME TIPS to help reduce those stress levels!
- Start the packing process as early as possible
Let’s face it, packing can be one of the most tedious things about moving home. But, it’s like facing any chore that you dread, but that needs to be done – it’s best tackled first! The longer you procrastinate about packing, the more anxiety and stress the entire moving process will cause you.
Set yourself a timing plan for packing that’s realistic. Trust us, you’ll feel a lot calmer and more prepared if all your packing is behind you by the time moving week arrives.
For an average-size four-bedroom home, we recommend starting the packing process about six weeks before the big move day. Yes, that far in advance! This way, you’ll have enough time to properly sort through your belongings, get rid of any clutter and give away any items you don’t want to take with you.
- Become label-obsessed
No, we’re not talking about clothing labels. We’re talking about good old sticky labels that you can slap onto your packed boxes. Label your boxes effectively so you can ensure that your removal company will be able to transport your things as quickly as possible and to the correct room.
So, what exactly does effective labelling involve? Well, just make sure that your writing is legible, and include a short description of what the box contains. Label all sides of the box so it can be seen from any angle. Finally, take your label game up a notch by using colour coded labels. Pick a different colour for each room, and you’ll pretty much guarantee that everything will end up in the right room.
- Save your old (and new) floors from damage with scraps of old cardboard
Yes, you read that right. Part of the anxiety of moving day is related to the potential damage that your home (both old and new) could face as part of the move. Get rid of that stress by taking some preventative action.
This is a lot simpler than it sounds. Simply lay down flat cardboard strips (using old cardboard boxes) and avoid dents and scuff marks caused by all the hustle and bustle of moving day.
- Hire professional movers for the big day
The number one way to ensure that you’re super organised for moving day is to hire a professional moving company.
Although many people attempt to move without professional help, this can be a much more stressful and challenging experience. Movers can ensure that all your belongings get to your new home in one piece, and in much less time!
Not sure where to find someone? Ask us for recommendations on local professional moving companies and get some quotes from a few companies in advance of the move.
Bear in mind that removal companies will soon become very busy, what with people wanting to be in before Christmas and the whole Stamp Duty Holiday coming to an end, you really need to get your removal company booked in early.
The difficulty is that you are not guaranteed a move-in date until you exchange contracts. However you might not want to exchange contracts if you can’t get a removal company!
It’s a tricky situation to be in and the best advice here is simply to make sure that everyone in the chain is singing from the same page when it comes to the date you all want to work towards.
Whilst your estate agent should be able to help with this, you need to remember that the dates are always to be officially agreed between solicitors.
- Take some time off work for a day or two
Try to take a couple of days off work around your big moving day. This gives you a little extra time for that inevitable last-minute packing and settling in at the other end.
Hope the tips help and good luck with the big move!
Thanks for reading
Michael
Searching for a home in the South Craven area?
Now that you’re equipped with all the tips you need to help you manage your next moving day let us help you find a home that’s worth any moving stress. Get in touch today on 01535 666031 and speak with a member of our team to kick off your house hunt.
Looking to sell a home in the South Craven area?
If you are thinking of moving then give us a call on 01535 666031, call me direct on 07557 088460 or email me: michael@leightonsestateagency.co.uk for honest, expert and friendly advice.
