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When you’re moving home solo, the DIY approach might seem cost-effective, but it can lead to a few pitfalls that may disrupt the entire move. Below, we will explore six of those pitfalls and how to avoid them, so you can look forward to a smoother solo relocation process:
Avoiding Professional Help
Many house movers will avoid professional help to save money. However, when you are moving solo, that can be a huge disaster. Put simply, you are only one person, and you can’t do it all, especially if you work long hours, have children, or are otherwise unable to give the time and energy required to conquer the move.
Whether you need to hire removalists in Sydney, Manhattan, or any town in between, these contractors can help you clean, decorate, and otherwise prepare both houses, leaving you with far less to juggle.
With your time and energy freed up, you can focus on the paperwork and logistics, getting the kids into new local schools, and dealing with the challenging emotions associated with this huge life change.
Packing Without Care & Attention
It’s easy to stuff items into boxes and consider it a job done. This is such a mistake, though. A lack of labels could mean boxes go to the wrong place, or you struggle to find what you need when you unpack. Your items may also get broken or damaged in the move or degraded if placed in a storage facility. To avoid waste and damage, take your time, over-protect, and label, label, label – it will save you a lot of searching, clearing up, and chaos.
Neglecting Yourself
Nearly 60% of Americans who moved house recently experienced negative emotions like stress. These feelings are normal, but they do take a toll, especially if you neglect yourself. Eating well, sleeping, leaning on loved ones for support, and exercising are so important during a solo house move. These basic self-care steps will keep you strong, positive, and better able to handle the challenges of the process.
Turning Down Help
Only a quarter of Americans will ask for help before they start something new, and nearly 75% won’t ask before they desperately need it. As a solo mover, you need to not only accept help but actively ask your loved ones to lend a hand. This move is going to be difficult. There is no room for pride – get calling in those favors.
Putting Off Packing
If you’re a chronic procrastinator, you may find yourself endlessly putting off the packing process. However, if you start earlier, it will be easier. There are a few approaches you can take to break the procrastination habit. Try packing for just one hour a day or tackling one small space a day. Play a podcast, throw on some music, or get a friend around to help. Before you know it, you’ll have it all done, minus the last-minute panic.
Skimping on the Budget
Budgeting is an aspect of moving house and navigating the housing market that is often vastly underestimated. Having extra cash in the pot means you can deal with unexpected problems and costs, giving you much-needed lubrication to keep the wheels in motion. So, give yourself a good couple of hours one day to sit down and create a budget that covers every aspect of the move from start to finish.
With the tips above, you’re ready to move house solo without falling prey to the common pitfalls. Soon enough, you’ll be relaxing in your new home, looking forward to fresh adventures and memory-making in the next chapter of your life.
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