Buying a new home is an exciting event, but the prospect of packing and moving into it can be daunting. Don't let anxiety ruin the adventure. Our agents have a few tips to help you get through the process with minimal stress.
Plan Your Journey
Even if you are not a "list person," it's helpful to sit down and list the things you must do to prepare for your move. Include the little things like filing a change of address with the post office and switching the utilities from one property to the next. Research moving companies and storage facilities. Consider what tasks you will be doing yourself versus hiring professionals. Decide what furniture and appliances you will keep and what you will sell, gift, or donate. Create a reasonable timeline for completing each item on your list.
Purge Now, Not Later
It may be tempting to box everything up and sort it out later, but that will be a big mistake. Be ruthless about disposing of things you have been hanging onto because they are "perfectly good," and keep only what you truly want and need. If you're holding on to things for others, make sure they want them. Sort into toss, sell, donate, and keep, and pack only what you want to take to your new home. Begin by packing seasonal items you won't need right away. Consider temporary storage to get boxes out of your way. Label everything carefully for easy access later.
Create a Budget
By now, you've researched the cost of DIY truck rental versus moving companies. It's time to determine what you intend to spend on the process. This includes any new furniture and appliances you will need immediately. Don't forget window treatments! Arrange for delivery before your final move date so the house is ready for you when you arrive. Packing supplies, gas in your vehicles, eating out, and time lost at work can nickel and dime you to death if you are not prepared for the expense. Use specialty boxes like wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes and glass packs for fragile dishes. The time they save you will offset the cost.
Don't Forget Pet Care
If you think moving is scary, imagine how our poor pets feel! Moving is a dangerous time for them as doors are often left open, leaving panicky pets an escape route outdoors. You can avoid tragedy by kenneling them offsite, but if that is not possible, make sure they are safely secured behind closed doors. Make sure their new space is ready, and consider new toys or treats to make them feel comfortable.
Take Care of Yourself
Be sure to create a special box or bin for essentials. Keep this with you so it doesn't end up at the bottom of a stack of moving boxes. Include medications, toiletries, towels, chargers, and important documents. Pamper yourself when the work is done with a long, hot bath or shower to relax before a good night's sleep.
Clean and Unpack Right Away Putting everything in its proper place will save hours of digging through boxes and looking for elusive items. The sooner it's done, the sooner you will be able to enjoy your new home. Dispose of packing materials as you go to avoid a big mess to deal with when you have unpacked them all.
If you're shopping for a new house, we hope you will consider one of our beautiful Ridgewood homes for sale. Just contact us when you're ready to look.
