The real estate market has been crazy these past two years, and it’s still as busy as ever. We’re about to enter a busy season for buying and selling homes, and if you’re planning to move, here are a few tips to avoid stress and disappointment later.
1. Book now to get the best movers
We know from experience how quickly moving companies book up, especially during the busy Spring and Summer season. As soon as you know your moving date, book a mover ASAP. If not, you may be left with the “budget” option that ends up breaking your mother’s fine china set.
If you can, plan your move for a weekday as movers are less busy on these days compared to a Friday or a weekend. Avoid moving on any statutory holidays as many movers may charge a premium for these dates to cover stat pay for their workers.
2. Planning early removes some of the stress
Are you a planner or a last-minute do-er? It’s never too early to start when it comes to planning your move. You can even start before you have your moving date!
Here are some things you can plan or research in advance:
- Get a temporary storage pod or storage locker to start moving out items you don’t need (like seasonal items).
- Pack away items you don’t need. Grab a stack of boxes and start packing items you know you’re not going to need. Store packed boxes in a spare room or basement.
- Research your top picks for movers, cleaners, locksmiths and other services you need. Start talking to them now to get rough quotes and availability so you can book them right away when you have your date.
- Start planning to rehome, recycle, or donate unwanted items. Plan an early yard sale or bring a few bags of clothing and household necessities to a local women’s and children’s shelter now.
It’s also helpful to chat with your moving concierge or coordinator early. They can provide you with checklists, service provider referrals, and help you get things done earlier, rather than waiting until the last minute.
3. Plan ways to minimize moving stress
Moving is one of the most stressful events in our lives. Do what you can to minimize the stress on you and your family by:
- Hiring a moving coordinator to handle logistics
- Get a moving checklist and check off items as you complete them (checking off completed items from your list will be very satisfying)
- Make plans for pets and children to stay with friends or family.
- Plan a family hotel vacation locally around moving day (it’s like a mini-vacation, which allows you to have your home cleaned and ready for sale).
Moving may be the 3rd most stressful life event, but it doesn’t have to be. Your Moving Concierge is here to take the stress so you can relax and look forward to starting a new life in your new home. Talk to us about our white-glove moving concierge services. We’ll do the stuff you don’t want to.