Making the decision to buy a home is never a small one, and it takes lots of planning and preparation to make your dream into a reality. Moving in itself can be a stressful undertaking, but when it’s your first home, you want to make the entire process special and anxiety-free. It’s important, then, to make sure you have a well-thought out plan for every part of the move, from buying the home to hiring the right people to help on the big day.
Preparation is key. You may have a budget set aside for buying new items for the home, but keep in mind that you might need more than one of the same item. First-time homebuyers should remember from renting that mats, towels, shower curtains, and waste baskets are necessities, but if the number of bathrooms in your new home is increasing, the amount of these items you need will increase, as well. Having a solid furnishings budget will help you be prepared on moving day so you can turn your new house into a home.
Here are a few tips on how to make your move a smooth one.
Set a budget
Buying a home takes a lot of financial planning; not only do you need to set a budget for the home itself, you also need to think about putting money aside for repairs or emergencies. Even if your home inspection comes back stellar, that doesn’t mean the hot water heater won’t spring a leak six months from now. Good financial planning now will ensure you’re not scrambling to pay for the things that pop up in the near future, as any homeowner knows will happen. It’s also a good idea to make sure you secure financing before you even begin house-hunting so you’ll be prepared ahead of time.
Stay organized
Staying organized is essential when it comes to buying a home, so start making lists of tasks you need to complete and things you want to buy. Once you’ve completed a task, check it off the list so you can stay on top of things. Keep all paperwork related to the house or your current residence in one folder for easy access, as well as important phone numbers.
Get to packin’
The key to packing smart is packing early; this way, you can take your time. Gather packing materials and boxes ahead of time and keep them all together in one place; once you’ve finished a room, stack boxes neatly along the wall to keep them out of the way. Write out packing lists to tape to the outside of each box so you’ll know exactly what’s inside. Not only will this help on moving day, it will keep you sane in the days leading up to the move.
Hire the right helpers
Having the right people around you on moving day can make a huge difference when it comes to stress and anxiety, so make sure you do some research before hiring movers. Make sure they’ll be able to accommodate your needs and, if you have pets, that they’re okay with the breeds. Small animals have a tendency to get lost or injured during a day of activity like a move, so it’s important to make sure your pet stays in a closed-up room on moving day, or ask a close friend or family member to take care of him until you’re all done.
Moving into a new home is a big job, but it’s also a very special day, so doing everything you can to reduce stress will help you enjoy the moment and preserve those memories forever. With a good plan and some help from loved ones, you can make the move into your first home a smooth, happy one.
– Suzie Wilson
Info@HappierHome.net
