Real estate is full of possibilities right
now. If you have been watching the market, you might be thinking that now is
the time to pack up and move. Here are six tips to help you save money on the
moving process.
Don’t Buy Boxes
Moving companies will sell you boxes, but
if you know where to look, you can get all the boxes you need for nothing.
Grocery stores are mainstays, but there are many other places to look. Check
offices for sturdy paper boxes with lids. Hospital and laboratory supplies come
in strong double-walled boxes. Restaurants will have lidded boxes for tomatoes
and potatoes.
Skip the Bubble Wrap
The same goes for packing supplies. Don’t
waste money on bubble wrap when you could use newspaper, bedding, and other
things to wrap your valuables. Check grocery stores on Monday mornings. Many of
them will have boxes of unsold Sunday papers with the UPC removed that are free
for the taking.
Box Everything
It is tempting to leave out the big stuff
like lamps and sculptures, but you should box them if at all possible. Boxed
items are more protected and stackable, so you will not waste time and energy
finding safe nooks to tuck everything in the moving van.
Seriously Clean House
Those racks of clothes that have been
collecting dust in the back of your closet? Donate them to a thrift store. Do
you have an attic full of long-forgotten knickknacks? Hold a yard sale to get
rid of it. These things will take up lots of time, energy, and van space. If you
haven’t used it in over a year, chances are you won’t miss it.
Avoid Storage Units
Many people think that loading large pieces
of furniture and other things into a self-store unit will help with moving. The
reality is, that you are going to be moving those items twice and paying money for
the privilege. If your new home doesn't have the space, you might reconsider
keeping some things. Keep in mind that sometimes the cost of a storage unit is more
than the items it houses.
Get Organized
According to the experts at Santa Monica
Real Estate, set a date to move and stick to it. This
way, you can notify utility companies of the exact times when to shut off or start a new service. You wouldn't want to have to pay an extra month’s phone bill
because you waited a week too long to cancel service.
In conclusion, moving doesn't have to be an expensive and stressful ordeal. By implementing these six creative strategies, you can significantly cut costs and streamline the process. First, source free boxes from grocery stores, offices, and restaurants to avoid spending on moving supplies.
Secondly, replace bubble wrap with readily available materials like newspapers and bedding for a budget-friendly packing solution. Ensure all items, even large ones, are boxed to maximize protection and space efficiency in the moving van.
Additionally, declutter your home by donating or selling unused items, reducing the volume you need to move and potentially making extra cash. Avoid the unnecessary expense and hassle of storage units by reassessing the necessity of keeping certain items. Finally, set a firm moving date to efficiently coordinate utility services and avoid extra charges.
By following these tips, you can make your move more economical and organized, leaving you with more resources and energy to enjoy your new home. Embrace these cost-saving measures to turn the potentially daunting task of moving into a manageable and even rewarding experience.
