There are ways to reduce the cost of moving house, whether you’re moving to a larger home or downsizing!
“Moving is the only time you realise how much stuff you’ve accumulated, and how heavy it all is.”
Unknown
Moving house is one of life’s major events and while it can be an exciting time for most, it’s classed as being one of the most stressful. According to the latest figures, the average cost of moving home in the UK has risen to almost £12,000. With so many costs to factor in, from mortgage fees and legal expenses to hiring a van and redirecting your mail, it can be difficult to budget and know what to expect. Lowering costs where you can will help you save money.
Here are 6 ways to reduce the cost of moving house and make the process easier…
1. Clear The Clutter
Your future self will thank you. Start early, as soon as you know you will be moving. Sort through all your belongings and keep the things that add positively to your life. Sell, donate or recycle your decluttered items. Get a quote from removal companies AFTER you’ve decluttered to avoid being charged for more than you end up taking. The less you have, the less you need to pack and take with you, therefore reducing your moving costs.
2. Do Your Research and Shop Around
Look at multiple home removal companies and get at least three quotes. Book well in advance and be flexible with moving dates. Avoid peak season and popular days for moving house, such as Fridays and bank holidays – save money by choosing a quieter day like Tuesday or Wednesday. Removal firms charge more at weekends and at the end of the month.
3. Reuse and Recycle
Use free packing materials. Save up packaging from online deliveries to reuse for your move. Boxes, bubble wrap, tissue and papers will all come in handy. Reach out to friends or family members who have recently moved and use any left over packing materials they still have. Local shops and cafes may have crates or boxes they will give you for free. If you have friends with babies or toddlers, they may have large nappy boxes you could reuse. Put your blankets, sheets and towels to good use and wrap fragile and awkward items in them.
4. Do It Yourself
How about a DIY house move? Pack everything yourself and label the boxes clearly. This will make life a lot easier at the other end. Hire your own van and enlist the help of friends and family. A bit more stressful maybe, but definitely cost-saving!
5. Use Up Consumables
Eat all your food and use up your stock of cleaning products and toiletries before you move. Saves packing it and the chance of it spoiling. You can restock once you move in.
6. Plan Ahead
Redirect your post in advance to avoid late payment charges from banks and utility companies.
There you have it! If you are planning a house move soon, I hope you find these tips useful and most importantly, money-saving!
“A house is made of walls and beams; a home is built with love and dreams.”
Ralph Waldo Emmerson