This article is the third in a three-part series where we’re telling you everything you need to know about selling, buying, and moving homes. Today, we’ll be sharing all of the ins and outs that come along with moving. There is also a free downloadable checklist to help you prepare for your move.
So, if you need some tips on moving or are looking for more information then you’ve come to the right place! You can also read our first two articles on selling a home and buying a home. If you have any further questions or would like to know more, feel free to give us a call at 250-864-HOME (4663) and one of our team members would be happy to assist you. Let’s get started!
Plan & Prepare – 5 Weeks Out
As soon as you know your moving date (even if it’s approximate), it’s time to start planning and preparing for moving day. Set a budget for all of your moving costs and supplies. You can save costs by looking for free moving boxes to re-use in your neighbourhood or among family and friends. You can also get creative with packing – instead of purchasing supplies, use blankets and sheets you already own to pack delicate items.
If you’re planning on using movers, get quotes from a couple of reputable companies and then book your chosen one as soon as possible. If not, book your truck, making sure that you are booking one that is big enough for all of your belongings. You may also want to hire cleaners for your current or new home.
Declutter – 4 Weeks Out
It costs a lot to move, and a lot of belongings means more costs and a more time-consuming moving day. So before you even start to pack, take an inventory of your home and declutter as much as possible. Donate or re-sell anything that you don’t want or need anymore. Take measurements of your new home, and make sure that your furniture fits; if not, sell it beforehand. It’s also a good idea to start using up any old freezer food.
Start Packing – 3 Weeks Out
Start packing as early as possible, but definitely at least a few weeks before the big move. Remember to keep out a bag or suitcase with essentials for easy access on moving day – things like a change of clothes, snacks and water, and any important or valuable belongings that you want to keep close to you.
When packing, it may be easiest to go room-by-room, starting with the rooms that don’t get the much use. Things like storage areas, the garage, and guest bedrooms can be packed up first. Then move to living areas, bedrooms, and finally, the kitchen and bathrooms. Label all of the boxes clearly as you go to keep things organized.
Update Address – 2 Weeks Out
With just two weeks to the move, it’s time to start making sure your address is up-to-date. Provide your new address to your employer and any professionals like doctors, dentists, veterinarians, etc. Also make sure to notify your bank and credit card providers, as well as your driver’s license.
Don’t forget to set up a transfer for your services, such as cable/internet, home and car insurance, utilities, etc. Hold off on ordering anything for delivery for the time being, or else sign up for mail forwarding with your local post office. Also update any subscriptions like newspapers and magazines to your new address.
Deep Clean – 1 Week Out
It’s always nice to leave a clean home for the new residents. Deep clean your entire house, and make sure any small repairs are finished up (such as filling picture holes in the walls). Run the cleaning cycle on your appliances if applicable. The night before the move, remove all food from your fridge and defrost your freezer.
Moving Day
It’s moving day! It’s always a stressful and hectic day, as much as you try to plan it right. But hopefully over the past few weeks, you’ve prepared enough that it will go smoothly. Wear a comfortable outfit and take care of any last-minute tasks like taking out the garbage or packing up leftover food. Do a final walk-through of the home to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything.
And there you have it – that is everything you need to know about moving homes! If you would like to know more, feel free to contact us with any questions – we’d be happy to help!
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Featured photo by Erda Estremera on Unsplash