Along with many leases ending in the summer, it is also a popular time of year for people to move homes. Moving can be an extremely stressful time, but there are things you can do to minimize the stress and stay organized! We’ve compiled our top moving tips to help make your move as seamless as possible.
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Donate and Downsize
As the pro organizer Marie Kondo puts it, “Discard everything that does not spark joy.” Going through your belongings and seeing what all you have is the first step to having an easy and successful move. The less you have to pack up and transport, the better. Especially if you have lived in a certain place for a while, chances are, you have things around your home that you didn't even know you had! It is important to know the difference between clutter and decoration when deciding what to donate. If you don’t use it 80% of the time, donate it! This will not only leave you feeling fresh and organized in your new home, but it will also give you space to customize and get new decor!
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Make a Budget
Moving can get expensive, so it is important to sit down and establish a budget that you are willing to spend so that you don’t unknowingly wind up with a major bill. Doing your research is a large part of this step. Identify early on what mover company you are wanting to use and make sure you know what form of payment they take, some moving companies are cash only! Always shop around, ask for quotes from a variety of movers so you know you are getting a good price. If you are moving into an apartment building, make sure you know if there is an elevator available for you to use if you are not on the first floor.
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Organize
Making sure your packing is organized and labeled can make your life so much easier when it comes time to unpack. Simple acts like color coding boxes and taking photos of the box's contents will save you so much time and frustration. There is nothing worse than trying to make a meal in your new home and you are unable to find your pots! This is also a good way to make sure important things do not get lost in the move. Be sure to pack wisely, make use of empty spaces like the insides of pots and pans, pack your suitcases and wrap fragile things in your own linens and towels to avoid purchasing bubble wrap or packing paper. (Pro-tip: Take a picture of the back of your television before you unplug everything, this way you know just what needs to be where!)
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Make a Moving Day Game Plan
Moving day is always a little stressful no matter how much you prepare, but having a solid game plan can make things much easier and time efficient. Make sure everything is packed and ready to go the night before so that moving day is only focused on moving, not packing. If you are able to, arrange dropping off your kids and pets at a family member's house (this will assure everyone is in a better mood). Be sure to pack water bottles and snacks for the day as well, moving can be exhausting, especially if you are moving in the Houston heat! It is also smart to pack a small duffle bag full of a nights worth of essentials such as pajamas, toiletries, and extra undergarments to avoid digging in boxes your first night in your new home.
Above all, remember that this should be fun! Do not let the stress of moving day take away the joy of moving into your new home. If done the right way, moving can be a smooth and organized process, allowing you to have a pleasant experience as you unpack and begin to decorate your new space.