Minimize Moving Stress with This Comprehensive Checklist

Moving can be stressful, even if you're doing so for a better job. Studies show anxiety affects 34% of people relocating, further complicating a complex process. However, you can minimize stress by following this handy checklist from Emil Ratti.

Decide Whether to Rent or Buy
Before looking at potential homes, decide whether you want to rent or buy. The following are a few factors to consider when choosing between renting and homeownership:

§  Property equity growth

§  Maintenance responsibilities

§  Cost

If you choose to rent, you can use online listings to find your ideal apartment. Many sites let you take a 3D tour, allowing you to check the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and other amenities. If you decide to buy, know that you'll have to act quickly to snatch up your dream home. You can request an extended closing if you need extra time between selling and moving in.

Find the Perfect Residence
One of the most important things to consider when looking for a home is the location. Where you settle affects your children's school quality, your commute time, and your family's access to entertainment, shopping, and more. When looking into neighborhoods, check out these factors:

§  Average house price

§  Type of residences available

§  Homeowners' association presence

§  Available yard and communal spaces 

Create a Timeline
Once you've decided on a new residence, it's time to create a moving timeline, which will help you track tasks and ensure you're ready by moving day. Try to break up your tasks into smaller pieces to make them more manageable. You need nearly two months to get everything done:

§  One and One-Half Months Prior: Pick up packing supplies such as boxes, tape, labels, and bubble wrap. Make an inventory of your belongings and get rid of items you no longer need. 
 

§  One Month Prior: Create a "first-night" checklist of items you'll need to comfortably settle into your new home. 
 

§  Two Weeks Prior: Make sure you've put in a change of address and updated subscriptions. Contact your utility company to schedule the discontinuation of services.
 

§  Two Days Prior: Finish packing and preparing large appliances.
 

§  Moving Day: Check your home one last time for forgotten items.

Moving has many expenses, from buying moving supplies and arranging temporary storage to renting a moving van or hiring professionals. To ensure you don't overspend, create a budget well in advance. Also, keep a few resources in mind, in case they become necessary. For instance, if you need a locksmith, simply search for “cheap locksmith near me” and browse ratings and reviews to make sure you’re getting a good deal with a reliable professional.

Get Professional Assistance
Packing your whole life into boxes is a tall order. Fortunately, plenty of moving companies are willing to help you pack and relocate your items. Make sure you find reputable movers:

§  Read reviews

§  Verify association memberships

§  Check the Better Business Bureau for complaints

Make Arrangements for Pets
If you have pets, you don't want them underfoot during the move. Keep pets in a kennel to minimize the risk of getting lost or hurt. You can also board them for a day.

Schedule Your Work
It isn't easy to focus on work during a move, but you need to stay on top of your duties. If possible, take time off starting a few days before the move and ending a few days after. To ensure you don't miss deadlines or forget any tasks, make a calendar with all due dates and blocks of time set aside for projects.

Take Care of Yourself
Finally, take care of your physical and mental health during this turbulent process. The following can help you stay centered in the middle of chaotic packing:

§  Schedule a massage

§  Meet with loved ones

§  Exercise

Now that you have a plan, you can confidently prepare for your move. With less stress to deal with, you can fully embrace the opportunities awaiting you.

Emil Ratti understands that the first step in purchasing or selling your home is to find a realtor that you feel comfortable with and who communicates well with you. Call 201-280-2884.

Article Submitted (2022) By:

Bret Engle | DiyGuys.net

bret.engle@diyguys.net