Why We Move and How to Make the Transition Easier for Everyone
There are many reasons why people move to a new location. For some, it’s the need for more space. For others, it’s to reduce the size of the space. Still, for others, it may be a new job in a new city, ending a relationship, the need for a better neighborhood and better schools or simply a fresh start. Whatever your reason for moving, you can make the transition easier for everyone involved.
Involving the entire family
Why you make think children adapt easy, the truth is that they have trouble with change too. Familiarity is a friend to all and going to a new place can seem scary, especially for children. Luckily, there are ways to involve kids in the move so that they feel a part of the process. If you’ve already secured a home and have a closing scheduled, now is the perfect time to take the troops to see their new home in the raw. Take them through the home and play the role of the real estate agent, pointing out all the unique and fun features. This will eliminate the fright of not knowing where they are going and allow them to see their home first hand. You can also let them select a bedroom and then discuss your plans for paint, curtains, and furnishings. This will excite your child and make them happy instead of sad.
Schedule movers in advance
As soon as you sign the contracts and schedule a closing date it’s time to find reliable movers and schedule a pickup date. You can check with family and friends to see who they use or do a thorough search on your own. Go through the yellow pages or browse online to find companies with an excellent rating in service. Once you find a moving company like North American Van Lines, you’ll need to have a list of the items you plan to take, as well as the estimated number of boxes. Once you gather this information you can contact the company to get a written estimate. If you are able to choose the time of year you move it’s best to stay away from late spring to early fall months, as these generally are a moving company’s peak season where they charge the highest prices.
Downsize
If you have lived in the same home for more than a couple of year’s chances are pretty good that you’ve acquired many new things since you moved in. Take advantage of the move in front of you and reduce the load. Go room by room and either sell or donate the items you no longer need or simply don’t want. Remember that a moving company charges by the amount of space you use up in their truck the more space you require the higher the cost. If you have a few items you aren’t certain about, wait a day or two and then if you still can’t decide, remove them from the list.
Earn money to offset the cost
Moving is expensive. You have the movers, boxes, packing supplies, the cleanup and the new place to decorate. With the items you don’t want that are in good condition, you can either host a moving sale or sell items online. Depending on the merchandise you have, you can make a few hundred or more in a short amount of time. Plus, by selling off the items you reduce the cost of the move by not transporting them. With the items that don’t sell, you can donate them to your favorite charity.
Set up the new home
Before you move to your new home it’s important to remember to have the electric, gas, water, and cable connected. This way when you arrive you don’t have to go into panic mode because nothing is working. If you are not sure which companies are the best, ask your realtor. They know the area and are familiar with the service providers.
If you are planning a move in the future make a checklist of the things you need to do ahead of time. This way you’ll have everything in order and be able to enjoy it.