How to reduce stress while moving
Whether it’s one year or 20 years, moving house is stressful.
As well as the packing being physically draining, there is the associated paperwork to consider too – cancelling services, organising a mail redirection, notifying organisations of your change of address….
And what do you do with your plants?!
It’s easy to get overwhelmed, but the key to a less stressful move is in the planning and preparation.
It really is worth setting some time aside early on in the process; here are some tips to help with the planning:
Declutter before you pack
Moving house is the perfect time to declutter and ditch the things you’ve been meaning to get rid of.
Ideally, ask to measure up the new house, so you’ll know what furniture you can take, and what needs to be given away or sold.
If you have a lot of unwanted items, and time allows, you may even consider holding a garage sale.
As well as potentially saving time on the packing, and unpacking the other end, and possibly save on the removal costs too, it’s a good feeling to start afresh in your new home.
If your new house requires some work, such as new carpets and/or redecorating, it may be worth considering putting some items in storage until you need them.
Intelligent packing
Many of us are guilty of leaving things to the last minute and then chucking everything into the nearest box, working on the principle we can sort it out when we get to the other end. However, the last thing you want to be doing when you get to your new home is opening the ‘winter clothes’ box when looking for your toothbrush!
Take the time to pack in a logical way – think about what you’ll need immediately and label boxes.
With all the various technology and appliances in homes today, label electric cables, and/or take a photo of the set up as a visual reminder.
Children can find moving very stressful and emotional. To help reduce this, pack them their own box for the move – this will have their favourite toy, change of clothes/bedtime clothes and any bedroom item for them to create their own space quickly.
In a similar vein, ensure everything you need for the first night is in the car with you. Tea, coffee, snacks and a screwdriver set!
It’s also wise to travel with smaller valuables and paperwork – that way you’ll have them on hand and there’s less chance of losing them.
Use a professional removal company
From the valuable, and fragile to the heavy and awkward, packing and moving your belongings is challenging; while friends and family can help, we can guarantee, there’s always more work than anticipated.
If your budget can cover it, using a professional removal company will reduce your stress levels and take less toll on you physically. Plus, because they have done it many times, they will probably be a lot quicker and far more efficient.
Take a look at our article on what to consider and how to choose a good removal company.
Extra touches for the new owners
Probably not really high on the planning agenda, but leaving a welcome note/basket is a nice gesture to the new owners.
You can also go one step further; if these haven’t been forwarded in the settlement process, leave a folder with paperwork, such as warranties etc.
Other helpful information could include where the numbers of any trades you’ve used such as a window cleaner, or a plumber who knows your building.
As well as making the new owner feel welcome, it could save a few phone calls in the future!
Get our checklist to planning your move
From knowing when to inform services such as your internet provider and utilities of your impending move, to when to actually start packing, our free Planning your Move checklist gives you a timeline to work.
Most importantly, it will give you peace of mind that you’ve remembered to do everything before the big day.
You can get our free Planning your Move checklist straight to your phone; simply text “move” to 0488 884 520 and we will send you a link so you can download it and store it electronically – that way it won’t get lost in amongst the other moving paperwork!
Or you can print it out (or call in at the office for a hard copy), and then feel the satisfaction of seeing things crossed off the list.
We do more than simply sell or manage property – we’re here to make your life easier!
With over 40 years in the business, our talented team is constantly looking for new and innovative ways to ensure your real estate experience is exceptional. This is why we are one of Newcastle’s longest established real estate offices.
Drop into the Cardiff office or give us a call on 02 4954 8833. Or send us an email to: mail@apnewcastle.com.au – we’d love to hear from you.
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Don’t forget to text “move” to 0488 884 520 to instantly receive your FREE Planning Your Move checklist.