How to move home successfully

As with most things in life preparation is the key to success, but, when moving, it is also the key to sanity. A house move is a bit like a big holiday, only 100 times worse beforehand, and, without the sunshine and sangria at the end. But, if you plan it well, it ahouls all should go fine, and, the next day you’ll be wondering what all the fuss was about.

Choosing a conveyancing solicitor

If you are buying or selling a house it is essential to find a good conveyancing solicitor because they can make, or break, the ehole process. 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.

You know plenty of people that have done this 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 because 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 wranglings.

Finding a removal company

When you are ready to exchange you should consider the best day. Bear in mind that everybody wants to move on a Friday, so, mid-week days will often be cheaper, and, you will have greater choice of companies to help you.

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 transport your personal-effects is the safest way to get everything safe-and-sound to your new home. Remember these 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 your remover 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. 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.

Take, sell or store?

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 into boxes that you don’t need . 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.

Pets and children

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.

Insurance

Finally, make sure that all of your worldly goods are insured. Accidents do happen; storage-facilities burn down and removal vans get cut-up by white-van-men.

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. He should be able to give you some idea of what time your keys will be available so that you can let the removers know what time they can get in.

When you arrive at your new home make sure you spend ten minutes walking around 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. 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’ve done it!!!.