Top 10 Tips For A Less Stressful Move

Top 10 Tips For A Less Stressful Move

It’s a new year, and for many folks this means moving into a new home.  Tackling a move can be one of the more daunting tasks you will accomplish.  With limited time, money, and manpower to get the job done, it can get complicated… not to mention stressful.  That’s why Champion Title, one of the top rated title and settlement agencies in the DC Metro region, has put together a list of tips to get you through your next move, hopefully with a lot less stress.

  1. Set a timeline. A surefire way to add stress to your move is by leaving things to the last minute. Do yourself, and everyone around you, a favor by getting organized early and creating a time line of “to do’s” that you will stick to.  Breaking down your move into manageable tasks with deadlines will keep you on track and help you avoid a panic later on.
  2. Pick your moving strategy. Depending on how far you are going and how much you are moving, you might be able to manage the actual move yourself.  If you feel you need to hire movers, make sure you do your homework.  Obtain quotes from a few moving companies, ask neighbors or friends for any companies they recommend, and check scheduling availability as early as possible.
  3. Sort and purge. Packing for a move is always a reality check on how much “stuff” you have.  Take this opportunity to sort through your possessions and donate, sell or discard any items you can live without.  No point in lugging those old magazines you never look at to clutter up your new home!
  4. Create a packing kit. Hopefully you won’t be doing all the packing yourself.  Put together packing kits with all the essentials:  boxes, packing materials like newspaper, packing tape, markers, and an inventory sheet.  Assign each of your helpers a room to keep everyone organized.
  5. Re-purpose boxes. Purchasing all new moving boxes can be expensive and wasteful.  Weeks before your move, ask employees at your grocery store for any used boxes they are throwing away.  Chances are you will receive a variety of sizes.  The smaller can be useful for heavier/fragile items such as books or picture frames.
  6. Make sure you label all boxes. This is crucial.  Be sure to label each box on all four sides for easy identification.  No need to label the top, as boxes will be stacked on top of each other.  Include the name of the room the items belong in so any of your helpers can place in its proper unpacking location.
  7. Use your luggage as boxes. Don’t forget, your suitcases are meant for packing as well!  Consider this another box to fill with belongings you are bringing to your new home.
  8. Create a moving day kit. Before you finish packing, set aside some moving day essentials for easy access on the big day.  You might need cleaning supplies, toilet paper, garbage bags, light bulbs, a change of clothes, and toiletries handy.
  9. Take special care with your valuables. If moving yourself, keep valuables such as jewelry and other smaller items with you.  If using a moving company, insure anything fragile or of value.  Back up your computers before packing.  You won’t regret it.
  10. Plan ahead for utility transfers. You will want electricity, water, and gas up and running on your first night in your new home.  Look into the account transfer process from previous owners well in advance of moving in. There may be some scheduling involved.  And don’t forget cable, internet and phone!

There’s no question about it, moving is full of challenges.  But by following these tips, you can eliminate much of the stress involved, allowing you to focus on the excitement of a new beginning in your new home.  Ready to make your move?  With over 25 years in the title and settlement business, Champion Title can help you buy and sell by working with you throughout the entire settlement process for a stress-free experience.  For more information or questions regarding any of our services, please call us at (703) 444-4100, or visit our website at www.championtitle.com  Good luck!