It’s one of the most stressful events that you will face in life, yet according to statistics, the housing market is as hot as can be at the moment.
In fact, even if we were to strip out the existing unprecedented demand, let’s not forget that the summer months tend to be a reasonably popular period (behind Autumn). After all, when the nights draw in over winter, who wants to be getting their torch out to view a property?
Following on from the above, if you are in the process of moving home this summer, read on to find out some of our featured tips and tricks.
Be realistic about your moving date
First and foremost, don’t become too invested in any moving date that your solicitor has provisionally given you. Note the P-word here; all dates are provisional. Unfortunately, the house moving process is tedious at best and while you absolutely need some sort of plan, you should be prepared to be flexible. Whether it’s because of slow legal teams, housing chains collapsing or a historic covenant being dug up in searches, mentally prepare yourself to shift the goalposts from time to time.
Sure, you may have planned your moving house checklist to a tee, but everything can change in a flash. Being prepared for this makes it easier to deal with.
Start packing months in advance
Whether you are moving a few streets down or across the country, you will have stuff that needs to be boxed. Many people tend to leave this job until the last minute, but why? There are very many benefits to starting early, such as it being easier to keep track of what needs boxing and the fact that you can take advantage of sales throughout the year.
Don’t make the mistake of thinking that all you need to do is box up your electricals and crockery. You will be surprised at how much stuff you have accumulated over the years.
If there is anything that requires extra attention, such as your passport or jewellery, create a box for it now. While you can always go back and add more items later on, once your boxes are sealed they will be much harder to access.
You may also want to consider having a separate box for any sentimental items too. Have a look through your photo albums and pick out anything that means something special to you. Don’t forget about those old letters from school days either! In other words, it all adds up.
Don’t forget the hidden expenses
Moving house is expensive, and you need to be aware of this from the off. It’s easy to get carried away with the excitement of moving home, but it’s important to remember that there are hidden costs too.
For example, you will have to pay for removal firms, removal boxes and fuel for your car. Even if you are planning on using a van, you will still need to factor in the cost of petrol and parking.
Then, there are the more surprising costs. For example, what about mail redirection so all of your mail gets to you? Or, what about the cost of new furniture for your new place (trust us, houses aren’t like jigsaws, and furniture what works in your current property is unlikely to ‘fit’ in your new one). Thinking outside the box like this can quash the risk of unexpected expenses ruining your move.
2018 ·