Moving, everyone hates it. Maybe not everyone but all of the good people. Who wants a hassle? And, let’s face it, unless you can get someone to do it for you…it’s a hassle! The need to move can be an unfortunate consequence of life. Layoffs, downsizing, family crisis can all be precursors to a move. However, it can just as often be a fortunate happenstance of life. Growing your family, job advancement, or relocation can be the reason you move. Maybe Carod Properties manages the new, luxury apartment you’ve chosen, or we sold you the beautiful new single-family craftsman that you and your family will make your forever home!
Whatever the circumstance, we have a few recommendations and tips that might help make your transition seamless, or at least not end in divorce. (It really is a hassle!) The key to as easy move, whether it’s a move from bigger to smaller or smaller to bigger, is organization. You will quickly realize that being properly organized will be the difference between finding broken or lost items while living out of boxes for months and unpacking treasured items in the same condition in which you packed them.
- Organize your mind. We know, not such an easy thing to do in day-to-day life, so… It is, however, imperative. Planning ahead what needs to be done on the “From” end of the move and subsequently what needs to be done on the “To” end will just make life easier. Things like services that will need to be transferred or disconnected, things that will need to be turned on, and where you’re going to eat until your kitchen is organized need to be thought through. Basically, your move will live or die by the efficacy of your checklists.
- Do your research. You may be moving within the same city or across the country. Either way, it is likely that the local services and institutions you are currently using will be affected by your move. Prior to your move map things out. Will it be worth the time and gas to still patronize your current cleaners, post office, or Starbucks. If not, find ones that will be closer to you. Of course, if you’re moving far away from your current location, this is a vital process. Also, look at services for your children. Schools are a given, but what about parks, libraries, and kid-friendly eating?
- Organize your packing. The goal isn’t to just get everything packed, or even packed without damages. The goal should be, once packed minimizing potential damages, getting everything unpacked. This is especially important if you have children or pets. Imagine the meltdown if a favorite toy or game controller is unable to be located in the sea of boxes that surround you. Or, what Rex will chew on if he doesn’t have his favorite bone. To avoid these scenarios, first, label EVERYTHING. This means: living room, order in which to unpack, and if fragile. Second, have a “first night” bag. This bag will contain essentials that can’t wait until you have the energy to dig through your boxes. Every family member should have a bag consisting of: favorites, hygiene items (soap, deodorant, grooming essentials, tooth brush, etc.), remote controls, sleepwear and next day clothing.
Sure, we could tell you to put all of your electrical cords in bathroom tissue rolls, or group hanging clothes together in trash bags before removing from the closet but those are the things that are kind of obvious. When we’ve found you a perfect home, we want to make sure that you continue to see it that way by removing bigger. Hopefully, we’ve provided, here, something hassles that you’ll find helpful for your move. Congratulations on your new home! Remember, Carod Properties is always here to help.