A recent study found that on average, people will move home eight times in their lifetime. You would think that the frequency of such moves would mean that it gets a little easier (or less stressful) over time, but this simply not the case. In fact, moving home is often the cause of great stress, be that due to financial pressures or property induced woes.
However, there are several steps you can take that make moving home a little easier – meaning you can focus on the positive side of moving – not the negatives!
- If you are selling your current property, figure out how much your house is worth. Consult with experts to ensure that you are not selling yourself short, as you can use the extra cash towards a downpayment for your new home.
- Work closely with a Mortgage broker to ensure that you get the best deal on a mortgage. They have years of experience within the industry and are able to provide you with invaluable knowledge and insight that could save you hundreds.
- If you know you want to move, but aren’t sure where you want to move to – write down a list of everything you need from your new home. For example, do you need access to certain amenities? How long is your ideal commute? If you have children, you might also want to consider the nearby schools.
- Look around a variety of different properties before signing a contract. By shopping around, you’ll be able to gain a clearer picture of precisely what you are looking for – and you’ll know you are making the right decision when you find your dream home.
- When you decide to move, ensure that you have a clear budget in mind. Figure out how much you can spend on the move, taking into consideration some of the hidden costs of moving, such as removal fees.
- A large majority of the stress associated with moving is tied up in packing. Therefore, you should get started on this task early instead of leaving it till the last minute. Remember: the sooner you start packing, the sooner you finish.
- If you plan to redecorate your new property, see if the bulk of the decorating can be completed before the move. This means that you won’t be getting in the way of any of the decorators, and you can unpack right away after the move.
- If you are worried about finances, take an affordable approach to moving. For example, you can save money on buying new furniture through DIY projects or buying items second hand. Additionally, you can earn a little extra money by selling anything you no longer need or use.
- Another way in which you can reduce the stress associated with moving home is by taking your time. Unless you are moving for work, you have plenty of time to organise the move – meaning you don’t have to do everything right away. Slowing the process down a little also gives you a chance to save up money.
