Whether it’s for a new job or you’ve bought a home, relocating can be daunting. There are innumerable tasks, like finding a new place to live and enrolling your children in school, and of course, there is ALWAYS a tight deadline. The reality is that unfortunately you are going to be cranky and stressed until you’re safely settled in your new home and life returns to some semblance of normal. To help you save time and your sanity, here are must-use tips when it comes time to relocate.
Housing
Your crucial first step is finding a new place to call home, and for busy professionals, there never seems to be enough hours in the day to do an exhaustive search. The solution? Call a Realtor. These professionals will know the area well and can offer great advice on the real estate market. Keep in mind, however, that even with their help, it’ll likely take longer than you anticipate to find the perfect place. If you’re concerned about moving too quickly and buying just for the sake of buying, try renting first. This will give you time to figure out where you really want to live long-term, as well as save up for a larger downpayment.
Utilities
When you sign the rental or buying agreement, be sure to get a list of the property’s utility companies. Your move will go more smoothly if you call and get the utilities at your new location turned on before you move. The new utility companies may want reference letters from existing utility companies, as well as some sort of deposit to turn your services on. Knowing this in advance will give you time to arrange for letters and adjust your moving budget, if necessary.
Moving
Hire a packing and moving company. They will have your house packed and loaded in a few hours compared to the weeks it will take you. Make sure the company is insured and read their policies on charges and reimbursement. It’s important to remember that with long distance moves, there’s a higher likelihood that some of your belongings will be damaged. Knowing how you will be compensated for those damages will give you peace of mind as smashed boxes are unloaded from the truck.
If funds are tight, you can always opt to move everything yourself. Allot twice the amount of time you think you will need to move if this is the route you decide to go. Packing will take two-thirds of your time, while traveling and unloading will be much faster. Services like Pods allow you to pack everything, while they take care of actually moving it. If you’re not comfortable with someone else moving your belongings, Budget, Ryder, Penske, and UHaul have trucks and trailers you can rent to move large items like sofas and beds. If you ask, most grocers and merchants will give you their used shipping boxes for free. If you think you will move again, go ahead and invest in large plastic containers. They are stackable, durable, and great for storage.
Taxes
The good news is if you are relocating for a job, you can deduct some of your moving expenses on next year’s taxes. Lodging, packing supplies, storage, and moving equipment can also be claimed. Be sure to save your receipts to justify your expenses, however.
Relocating will be stressful. Give yourself extra time and try to be flexible. Remember that things will go wrong. Don’t hesitate to ask for help. And remember to stay positive.
Moving to or from Jacksonville, NC? Contact us at https://bluehenhomebuyers.com.