When was the last time you moved your residence? After 27 years in the same house, my wife and I are moving to a condo. Moving from 2,200 sq. ft. to 1,100 sq. ft. does present some logistical challenges in terms of “downsizing” to fit the new space.
Here are a few tips I have learned along the way:
- Start early – moving companies are booking 2-3 weeks out.
- If you are downsizing, determine what is essential, and sell, donate, or giveaway on Marketplace for “free” (this is especially helpful if it requires moving something from a basement or second floor).
- Boxes, boxes and more boxes…find someone who is moving a week or two ahead of you and ask for their wrapping paper and boxes.
- If you are “staging” your home for sale, moving companies will store “excess” furniture prior to your move date, making your rooms look larger during showings.
- If it is a local move (same city), move the beds, kitchen equipment and bathroom household goods to the new residence first and then the furniture. Books, if you have them, are heavy and should be packed in small boxes.
- Be patient with your spouse – moving can be a stressful time.
- Eat out often to conserve energy and time.
- Be kind to your friends and hire a moving company. No one wants pizza, beer, and a trip to the chiropractor for helping a friend move.
- Once your house has sold, begin moving the fragile items like pictures, art, and glassware in your vehicle if possible. While moving companies offer damage insurance, it is best to avoid the issue.
- Communicate clearly and often to keep everyone informed, including the moving company.
Enjoy the adventure of making new friends, eating at new restaurants, and exploring the neighborhood. One final note, after unpacking, give your boxes and wrapping paper to the people moving into your former home, or look for someone else who is relocating that can use the supplies.