Take the stress out of moving

When it comes to buying or selling a house in Chatham-Kent, moving is an inevitable. Moving is a necessary part of the real estate process, and ultimately, can be one of the most stressful parts of purchasing or selling a home. So how do you prepare, and what can you do to make your move go smoothly? It's pretty simple actually. Here are a few tips to help during your next move, whether you're doing it yourself or you're hiring a moving company in Chatham-Kent.

Begin packing early, really early

Packing is a marathon, not a sprint. It needs to begin early, as in weeks early, not days or hours. You've spent an entire lifetime accumulating your possessions; there is no way you can expect to pack them all away in a day. Packing should be done weeks or even as early as a month in advance. Put away everything you won't be using between now and your move, and don't be afraid to throw some things away or donate them to the local Goodwill or Salvation Army. Investing in quality boxes from a moving company is a good start and remember, make sure you tightly pack all containers. Loose space leads to broken goods. Use packing paper or newspaper to fill any gaps. Also, never fold your lids shut, always use proper packing tape. Start early, pack tight, tape it up and you're ready to go.

Label everything when you pack

The real estate process is stressful, whether you're moving within Chatham-Kent, or across Canada. Not being able to find your things after a move will only add to your stress. Label what room the boxes will be going to in your new house, not what room they were in at your old house. Then, it will help to label each room at your new house with a paper or sign. That way your movers (or friends) will know exactly where everything goes when you get there. As well, if the box is one of twenty labeled "kitchen," you might want to add extra detail to help with the transportation and unpacking of your goods. Movers need to know what boxes contain breakables.

Pay for it to be done right

Moving likely means you've made a large investment in a piece of Chatham-Kent real estate. Many people try to save by moving their own furniture, but believe me, this isn't always the right choice. The best way to guarantee your furniture, televisions, computers, piano, and grandfather clock make it to your new Chatham-Kent home safely, is to hire a professional moving company. Believe it or not, most movers are trained in proper lifting, packing, and transportation techniques. They will use padded blankets, straps, and cardboard to protect your belongings. What's more, most moving companies in Chatham-Kent offer insurance against damaged items. Yes, professional movers can be costly, but they will help take the stress out of moving, and help your belongings arrive in one piece. As well, remember, they're doing a service, so treat your mover nicely. If you do, I guarantee they'll treat your belongings with greater care.

Take the essentials yourself

As you embark on the final journey in your Chatham-Kent real estate adventure, take special care to keep your essentials nearby. Pack a change of clothes, your toothbrush, and anything else you'll need immediately in a duffle bag. After a long day of moving, the only thing you might want to do is change your clothes and camp out on your new living room floor. As well, take any important papers including your bank numbers and passports with you; some items can't afford to be trapped in boxes for weeks on end.

Regardless of what you do, moving can be stressful. Just remember to start packing early, protect your personal and valuable items, and seriously consider hiring professional movers.

If you need any moving advice, or would like to talk about real estate in Chatham-Kent, feel free to give me a call at 519-360-0141 or Contact Me. Looking for a new piece of real estate in Chatham to move into? Then search my Chatham Ontario Real Estate Listings.