
We all know how much of a struggle it can be to relocate when you have a young family. I should. We've moved twelve times (soon to be thirteen) in the fourteen years we've been together. And we're NOT in the military. Sad, I know.
In the beginning, we usually moved every year because we rented and wanted to upgrade to a nicer place the following year. Once we got into buying houses the reasons we're more personal. Job relocation, moving back to family, or moving to help family out. Any way you look at it I've moved A LOT.
When you buy houses not only do you have to deal with the legal side of things, but the move can place a huge strain on your finances as well. So, you should always look for ways in which you can cut back on spending. Making a moving checklist helps!
You will have made a massive investment to get the house, so the last thing you want is lots of unexpected costs. With that in mind, here are some ideas that could make your life easier. The day you move is going to be stressful enough. You don’t want to be worrying about your bank account if you don't have to.
Use the same moving company as previous owners
Unless you plan to handle the move yourself, you’ll have to get in touch with a local moving company at some point before your big day. The chances are; you will transfer your items to the new property the day after the previous owners leave. Consider contacting them to see which moving company they plan to use. If you both call the same company, you might manage to get reduced rates.
Fix your old appliances
Many people make the mistake of purchasing new appliances and furniture when moving to a new house. However, that is an unnecessary expense you could do without (although it is fun to buy new things!). You can always reupholster your sofas if you want them to look different, and there is nothing stopping you from fixing broken appliances. All you have to do is find a specialist parts supplier online and browse the inventory. You are almost certain to save money by following this suggestion, so you should seriously consider it.
Ask your friends or family for help
It can be difficult to stick to your budget when moving house, so you’re going to need all the help you can get. Presuming you have lots of close friends and family members, there is no harm in mentioning that you need some assistance. People donate items to their loved ones all the time. So, mentioning that you haven’t got a fridge yet could be a good idea. While second-hand products tend to have a shorter lifespan, you can’t moan when you’re getting something for free. Also, their assistance could help to take some of the weight from your shoulders. The last thing you want is to live without a washing machine until your next payday.
Read your electricity and gas meters
It is not uncommon for electric and gas companies to land new owners with huge unpaid bills from the previous inhabitants. For that reason, you must read your meters the second you arrive at the property and take photographic evidence. That will help your case when you refuse to pay. Never give in to those companies. You are not obligated to pay for anything you haven’t used, and sending old bills is usually a mistake on their part.
Now you know how to save money when moving to a new house, you should feel a little less worried about the task ahead. Whew!
Yes yes yes great tips
Thanks Jo Anne. I still wish I was magical and somehow everything could just magically show up in the other house in its place!
Great tips. I confess I HATE moving and all it entails. However if it is necessary, these tips will help. 😀
It’s not very fun is it. However, I do look forward to this next move. I LOVE the house so it makes it more bearable.