In today’s hot real estate market people are moving, moving, moving. No longer are we in a buy and hold mode – it’s all moving vans, cardboard boxes, and packing tape.
If you’ve ever moved you know just how stressful it can be. If I had a dollar for every time someone said “I’ll never move again”, I would be playing Craps in Monte Carlo and taking joy rides on the French Riviera.
The good news is, it doesn’t have to be that bad. Here are some ways you can relax and not stress over moving.
Clean & Purge
The contract on your new home is signed and now it’s go time. Simple logic says the less you have to move the easier it will be. Over time we all tend to collect, gather, and store useless things. Don’t worry, it’s human nature. Now is the time to take action and get rid of the things you no longer need or use. For some folks this can be a very difficult task. Look at the things you are considering moving. When was the last time you used or wore them? If it’s been over a year or two, chances are you aren’t going to need them. Get rid of them! Donate them, trash them, or see if it makes sense see if you can leave it for the new homeowner.
Become Social
Now’s a good time to pull out your contact book and see who can truly call themselves your “friend”. No one likes to help others move, but with a little motivation anyone can be coaxed into it. Throw a moving party. Offer to feed your helpers and make it a fun day. Maybe even a little cash wouldn’t hurt. Your friends would probably be willing to get paid less than professional movers.
Be Organized
I remember helping someone move once and when I got there, nothing was packed and nothing was organized. I wanted to leave right then. If you do get people to help you, have things ready to go. Pack boxes that are easy to carry and clearly label them so you’ll know where they go when you move in.
Pad Your Schedule
Most things can be negotiated including time. Time for closings, time for work and time for moving. You never know until you ask. The number one way you’ll stress out your move is by trying to do it in less time than is required. Don’t do this. Make sure you have plenty of time for purging, for packing, and for moving into your new home. Be firm when it comes to your schedule. This will free you from a lot of worry.
If you do these things, moving will be a lot easier for you and your helpers, and you’ll be enjoying your new home in no time.