If you’re considering moving house at any time in 2024, it is time to start putting those plans in action today! After all, the process can be both time-consuming (taking around 3-6 months on average) and expensive, meaning it is something that you must plan carefully for.
We’ve pulled together five expert tips that can help you navigate the big move with confidence and ease!
Step One: Put together a moving timeline/plan.
As mentioned above, it typically takes somewhere between 3-6 months to move house within the UK. However, this can vary depending on a variety of factors, such as the local housing market and the state of your property. For example, properties in need of serious maintenance will likely sit on the market for much longer than those in good condition.
Either way, you should put together a timeline for moving that helps you prepare for all that is to come. In addition to having a set moving date in mind, you also need to set aside time in your schedule for tasks such as packing, hiring a removal team and document/contract signing and submission.
Step Two: Get your home ready for the market.
In order to facilitate a smooth and stress-free sale, you need to get your current home ready for the market. This way, you are more likely to be inundated with offers from potential buyers, as opposed to having your property sit on the market for months on end.
One way in which you can ensure your home is market-ready is by working to improve your curb appeal. For example, this can be achieved by carrying out necessary exterior home maintenance tasks, such as missing roof tiles, as these are the very things that buyers are warned to keep an eye out for. Enhancing your curb appeal by taking care of your front garden or repainting doors/window frames can also help ensure you make a positive first impression.
Beyond this, it’s also a great way to add value to your home, which could mean you get a much better price for your property than anticipated.
Hire out a storage unit.
One of the most stressful aspects of moving is packing. After all, this isn’t something that you can leave to the last minute as you could when packing for a holiday – you have to give yourself as much of a headstart as possible.
If you do not get the keys to your new property until the day you leave your current home, this can prove to be problematic. However, this could be combated by hiring out a local storage unit. This way, you can start packing your belongings into boxes and removing them from the house. It also gives you more freedom when it comes to unpacking, as you can spend your time with it.
Involve your children in the process.
If you’re going to be moving with children in tow, it’s crucial that you involve them in the process as much as possible. For example, once you’ve made the decision to move, you should have an open and honest conversation with them about what this entails.
For the most part, it could mean that very few changes will take place, aside from the fact that they’ll get to decorate a brand-new bedroom. However, in cases where you’re moving to a new town or city, it’s important that your children are as prepared as possible for this transition.
One way in which you can help them feel more excited about the move is by bringing them along to any property viewings you attend. During this time, give them a notebook and have them write down things they like or don’t like about each house. This “grown-up” responsibility helps them to feel more actively involved in the move, which can help to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety during an uncertain time.
If they are switching to a new school, you should also try to arrange a visit ahead of time. This way, they can meet their teacher(s) or classmates in person before their first day so that they feel a little less overwhelmed.
Ask for help when you need it.
Moving house requires a lot of hard work and energy, which is why it’s so often stressful. However, you don’t have to do everything on your own – friends and family would like to be available to lend a helping hand as and when you need one. Whether this relates to heavy lifting when moving furniture out or having someone take care of your pets around the moving date, don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help if you need it.
In addition to relying on those around you, you can also reach out for some professional support and guidance. For example, if you’re worried about the logistics of packing, many moving companies offer this as an additional supplementary service. While this comes at an additional price, it’s worthwhile when you consider the amount of time and energy you can save by making the most of these services.
Alternatively, if you don’t have time in your busy schedule to host property viewings, a real estate agent will likely be able to conduct them on your behalf. As their role is sales-based, this also could increase the chances of a quick sale, as they’ll know exactly what to say during the viewing to win over potential buyers. They’ll also be able to provide you with support when it comes to filling out documents or preparing contracts, ensuring that your best interests are protected throughout every stage of the process.
Final Thoughts.
If you’re getting ready to move home in the coming months, the more prepared you are, the better. This will help you to keep your stress levels down during a tumultuous period. It also means that you’ll be able to focus on the “fun” side of moving, viewing it as an adventure rather than a challenge!