STEP 7:  MOVING

From the smallest of homes to the largest, every home contains a lot of furniture,  kitchen items, clothes, and a  lot of personal items.  If you are moving a short distance you may want to do the move yourself but it may be worthwhile to hire a professional moving company if you are going  a further distance.  Your real estate agent at Miamirealtyfinders.com can recommend favorable moving companies to assist you in this process.  Try to weed through all of your furniture and throw away any unwanted items.  This will minimize the weight of your goods thus minimizing the price for your shipping!  You could sell any excess goods or donate them to a local group or organization.  Some will even come to your home to take it away for you.  Remember to fill out the forms at the U.S. Postal Services for a forwarding address and your utility companies need to be aware so they can end your service.  Ask them about any deposits that should be returned to you.

How Do You Plan To Move?

Once you have sold your home you should start planning your move.  Some of these activities can actually assist you with the moving process!  Like cleaning out basements, attics, closets, and weeding.  If you do this now there will be less to do when the home is finally under contract.   Your planning will be determined by a number of things.  For example, if you are moving a long distance you will probably be using an interstate mover and will need a large van.  If you are moving internationally you will have to contact the embassy in Washington D.C. for information.  Keep in mind certain items may not be allowed in other countries.  Inquire about customs duties and taxes and protocols.  If you are moving locally (and moving yourself) don’t forget tape, peanuts, blankets and extra padding .  Mark all of your boxes to make the unloading easier.

Who Should You Use?

There are a number of factors to consider when deciding who to use for your move.  Of course money is one of those factors.  You’ll want to spend as little as possible but do not let this be the determining factor of who you chose, this could be a mistake.  Be sure the moving company owns the proper equipment, the movers are trained and experienced to do a good job.  Always confirm their credentials.  Are they licensed and bonded (each state is different)?  Do their workman have workman’s comp insurance?  Get a moving estimate in writing.  Some organizations offer discounts.

Get a Checklist

Checklists are organized and make a job easier.  Moving is an enormous job so here are some items to consider:

*Keep your laptop and modem easily accessible during the move.  This allows you to still be able to connect to personal and business e-mails.

*Keep address books nearby in case you need help.

*Make sure that historic or breakable/valuable items are handled and packed properly.

*If your children are also traveling be sure to include toys, games, pillows and extra blankets.

*Count the number of boxes when they arrive.  Check them off of the list that you made earlier, you can even check them off according to contents or the names on the box.

*Medicines should be readily available during the move.

*If you are moving any type of distance be sure to have enough cash/credit to cover food, lodging, transportation and travel expenses.