Moving Home?
As with most things in life preparation is the key to success but when moving it
is also the key to sanity. Moving home is a bit like going on holiday, only 100
times worse beforehand and without the sunshine and sangria at the end. But if you
plan it well your move should go fine and the next day you’ll be wondering what
all the fuss was about.
Leading up to your move
If you are buying or selling a house it is essential to find a good conveyancing
solicitor because they can make, or break, your whole move. Mortgage companies will
often offer discounts to encourage you to use their preferred legal firms but ask
yourself the reason for this. Its unlikely to be because the company are leaders
in their field, more likely because they offer the best financial incentives. Even
in seemingly simple exchanges it is best to source a reputable outfit to deal with
what is likely to be your biggest financial transaction to date.
Everyone knows people who have moved before, so ask around and find out who to use
and just as importantly who not to use. As the selling/buying process comes to a
conclusion you will reap the benefits of choosing well as a good solicitor will
keep you informed (essential), negotiate favourably on your behalf and smooth any
hiccups. You have enough to deal with already, make sure you minimise the stress
caused by the legal processes.
When you are ready to exchange you should consider the best move day. Bear in mind
that everybody wants to move on a Friday so mid-week moves will often be cheaper
and you will have greater choice of removal companies.
Using a removal company will not only cut down on the physical work involved but
it will also reduce the risk of damage to your possessions. Using professionals
to pack and move your personal effects is the safest way to get everything to your
new home safe and sound. Remember removal companies will happily pack your goods
too, a process that is incredibly laborious and normally the point where you drop
the priceless (Ikea) Ming vase.
When choosing a removal firm it is essential to shop around. As with any purchase
you should look to find a company offering a good service at a reasonable price.
Removal cost comparison websites like ours are a good place
to start because you only need to enter your details once and you’ll end up with
enough quotes to make an informed choice.
Now is a great time to get rid of all those bits and pieces that you really don’t
need. Go through your stuff a few weeks advance and pack anything you don’t need
into boxes. Then sell the lot at a boot fair, on eBay, in a garage sale or just
bin it.
If space is going to be tight, one way to reduce stress on the day is to put non-essential
items into storage. That way you won’t be up until four in the morning unpacking
your books and DVDs so that you can get into the kitchen. Storage is relatively
inexpensive as long as you don’t use it for a prolonged period. You may even have
a friend or neighbour with an empty garage or space in a warehouse.
You’ll also need to think about getting someone to care for your pets and children
on the day. You don’t want to be worrying about whether the tortoise has had enough
lettuce when you’ve just discovered that the seller hasn’t even started packing
yet.
Finally, make sure that all of your worldly goods are insured. Accidents do happen.
Storage facilities burn down and even removal lorries get cut up by East European
truck drivers.
The day of your move
Remember, the chances are that you and the other workers will want a cup of coffee
so make sure you’ve got everything you need with you in the car including the kettle!
The first call you need to make is to your solicitor to make sure that things are
on track. Your solicitor should be able to give you some idea of what time your
keys will be available so that you can let the removal company know what time they
can get in.
When you arrive at your new home make sure you spend ten minutes walking round while
its still empty. This will give you plenty of time to make sure that everything
is as described by the vendor or the landlord.
If you are renting a property note marks on walls and carpet stains. If you can,
take photographs and send them to the agency/landlord.
If you’ve bought the premises and there is a discrepancy contact your solicitor
immediately. It’s a lot easier to sort these things out before everything is unpacked.
Finally, put your hands on your hips, take a look around and pat yourself on the
back (champagne tastes especially good at moments like these).
Congratulations you’re moved in.