People move for various reasons. Whether it’s to be closer to work, make space for more family members or for a change of scenery, moving can be a big deal. Deciding when and where to move takes time and research, but with adequate effort, it can be a worthwhile and lifechanging decision.
Tips for the Big Move
Moving from a condo or an apartment into a house can be a big jump. Even when the movers unload the last box and you’ve unpacked just about everything, your house might still feel a bit cold and empty. The belongings that filled an apartment probably aren’t enough for a house, but that gives you a chance to start fresh.
Here are some tips for moving, decorating and getting settled in your new home.
1. Get inspired beforehand. Avoid getting too overwhelmed by new furniture, color and style choices. Head online or flip through a home design magazine to get inspired and excited for the process ahead.
2. Determine the costs. In an apartment, your utility bills might not have strained your wallet or might have been included in rent. A house requires separate gas, electric and water payments. Make sure you have those included in your spending plan.
3. Prioritize the basics. Make sure you’ve tied up the loose ends on the previous place. Set up your new address with USPS, cancel utilities and reroute any subscriptions to confirm nothing gets left behind.
4. Set a budget. Instead of spending a small fortune on one or two pieces of furniture, buy a few items that can benefit one or two rooms at a time. Have a spending plan for each room so you don’t break the bank.
5. Have a design blueprint. It can be fun to hit a couple stores and purchase pieces that catch your attention. However, that could result in an unmatched, chaotic house. Have an idea for the look of each room to eliminate a non-cohesive home.
6. Break down the job. It can quickly become overwhelming to decorate and fill a house all at once. Focus on livable spaces and high-traffic rooms first to make the project more manageable.
Before the big move, consider your reasons for moving. For more information and help with choosing the right neighborhood, check out our resource.
AUTHOR BIO: Brian Slater is the founder and President of New City Moving, a moving company in Chicago. Slater has more than 10 years of experience in the industry and focuses on providing top-notch customer service as well as a stress-free moving environment.
