Here are 10 strategies for a less stressful relocation.
1: Choose a reliable moving service Sure, hiring fewer movers might save you money. However, if you’re not moving again soon, the ease and knowledge of professionals can outweigh any financial benefits. TIP: Reserve your move at least two months in advance to ensure you get the desired date.
2: Think about hiring a mover If your work and family life are demanding, why not have someone else pack your belongings for you? Many major moving companies offer packing services, and it’s more affordable than you might think – around $15 per box and higher. Plus, you won’t have to worry about finding boxes at the store or scavenging for newspapers at the recycling bins.
3: Arrange for childcare and pet care While it’s wise to prepare your children for the move in advance, having someone look after them on moving day will make the process smoother. Similarly, giving your pets a break at a doggy daycare or a cat hotel will reduce their stress. ORGANIZE YOUR LIFE Plan in advance to get a head start on tasks before you move into your new home. The more you can accomplish before the move, the easier the process will be.
4: Tackle your to-do list Use a checklist to stay organized about tasks before and on moving day, and divide chores among family members. Our detailed moving day checklist is three months in advance. Are you ready? Get started!
5: Streamline your belongings We’re referring to furniture, clothing, and paperwork. Declutter thoroughly to lighten your load and reduce the amount you need to move. You might even be able to recoup some of your moving expenses by selling some of your used furniture.
6: Prepare for the Cost of Closing Anticipate spending thousands of dollars on closing costs. Although it might be a bit of a shock, being aware of these expenses is half the battle. Keep in mind, as a first-time buyer, you might be eligible for the First Time Home Buyers’ Tax Credit and local land transfer tax rebates. FOLLOW BEST STORAGE HABITS Even if you decide to hire a moving company to handle the packing, you’ll likely be involved in wrapping and packing some items yourself. Here’s a tip on how to make it easier.
7: Organize Your Packing by Room Begin with less active areas, such as your storage space – anything you’ve already gotten rid of (you’ve completed Tip No. 5, remember?) can be packed away. Then, tackle areas you use less often, like the dining room, if you usually eat meals in the kitchen. Kitchens, bedrooms, and bathrooms are typically packed last, but you can get ahead of the game by packing away out-of-season clothes or less frequently used small appliances and moving them to a storage area or a quiet corner.
8: Invest in Better Packing Supplies While used cardboard boxes are free, they can be hard to find and there’s also the risk of pests. New cardboard boxes, along with packing tape, cost money but are thrown away after use. A simpler and more eco-friendly option? Plastic moving boxes – just look up rentals in your area online. Or, consider investing in durable plastic storage boxes, as you’ll probably need them for your new home.
9: Take Photos of Everything! In addition to capturing those special moments as a new homeowner for social media, your phone can also help you save money and avoid headaches. Take pictures of your old apartment before you move out to ensure you get your security deposit back. These photos will also be useful if there’s any damage to your new home or belongings during the move. (Make sure to always have a charger with you on moving day.) TIP: Also think about recording a video of your current home before you start packing, so you have a visual record of your belongings.
10: Prepare Your Bathroom Ahead of Time If you’re moving into your new place before the move, clean and set up your bathrooms the day before. Put away your pyjamas and a change of clothes too. This way, you’ll feel more at ease on a busy day, without having to search for your essentials before enjoying a relaxing shower and going out for a celebratory dinner – or just collapsing into bed!
Thanks to Genworth Canada and CAM for the tips!