Posts from February 21st, 2024

Click Here for Written Blog

No one likes to move. Is that you? Where to start, what to do, rush rush.

Let's face it! Moving isn't easy and moving out of province or across the country can pose unique challenges. Thankfully we have five expert tips to share with you to make your move EASY… okay, okay, at least EASIER. Click on the video below for all the details or read the written blog lower down.

If you want to chat to find out more about buying or selling in Victoria, finding out the value of your home, or any other real estate topic then simply book a Phone or Zoom call at this link: https://calendly.com/gary_sims

To subscribe to receive notifications of our YouTube video releases and newsletters please use this link: https://randg.video/subscribe-video-newsletter

Download the printable, 7 page colour guide here: Download Guide

Enjoy!
Gary and Rosemary

"We love people and we love homes!"

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Start of Written Blog

No one likes to move. Is that you? Where to start, what to do, rush rush.

Let's face it! Moving isn't easy and moving out of province or across the country can pose unique challenges. Thankfully we have five expert tips to share with you to make your move EASY… okay, okay, at least EASIER.

I also have a full colour, printable, 7 page handout with all the details I will talk about. You can find the download link to that later in the blog. Now, let's get started!

#1: Plan Early & Plan Thoroughly

It might sound cliché, but the best tool in your arsenal for a successful move is planning! Once you've decided to make a move out of province, it is important to take time to develop your plan. Do you own your current home? 

If so, you need to start preparing to sell. If you rent your current home, you need to review the terms of your lease and understand how much notice is required.

You also need to plan for your new home. Will you be purchasing a home or renting? Do you have employment lined up? What areas are you interested in living in? Where will the children go to school? Can you make a trip to the new province in advance for research purposes?

What level of support will you require with moving? Are you looking to hire everything out or do you just want help with certain parts?

It is important to note that moving isn't cheap. As you are developing your detailed plan, be sure to include estimated costs as you go. This will give you an idea of how much money you need to save prior to starting the process. If you are receiving financial support for the move through an employer, that's fantastic! Just be sure you understand what's included and what isn't so that you can budget accordingly.

#2: Don't Move Things you Don't Need

I cannot stress this one enough! One more time for the folks in the back…DO NOT move things you do not need. Use this move as an opportunity to take inventory of your possessions and give careful consideration to what you actually need. Pare down your possessions. In addition to getting rid of items you don't use, consider whether all your furniture will fit in your new home.

It is also worth noting that some larger items may not be worth moving. For example, if you have a pool table it may be more headache (and expense) to try and move it than it is to sell it and purchase a new one when you reach your destination.

List items you won't be moving for sale online or have a yard sale. Donate any items that don't sell in a timely fashion. I know this one can be tough, but it is such a shame to waste precious time and resources moving items that you don't want or can't use at your new home.

#3: Vet your Movers

Okay, so we all know that it is wise to get quotes from at least three service providers before making a decision, right? But once you get these estimates, is the price the only thing you should be looking at? NO! If there is a mover that is coming in notably less expensive than all the others that is typically a red flag. Do your due diligence before signing on the dotted line.

Ensure you are interviewing movers that specialize in long-distance moves. You also want to make sure that you are reading reviews and not just the reviews the company directs you to or has listed on their website. Go a step further and check places like Google and the Better Business Bureau.

Lastly, make sure you are reading the "fine print", especially when comparing movers. Make sure that everything you want and need is included, and that you fully understand the timelines for the collection and delivery of your items. You don't want to be stuck in your new home with no furniture for weeks because you didn't read the contract.

#4: Plan for the Days in Between

This is particularly important if you are selling your current home and buying a home in the new location. We typically recommend that you stagger your closings by a few days to accommodate any unforeseen delays. For example, if you are selling your current home on Monday, plan to close on your next home on Wednesday or Thursday.

This way, if there are any delays on the first closing, it won't pose problems for the second. This also gives time for the movers to make their way, with your stuff, to the new location.

You will need to come up with a plan for the days in between. Will you stay in a hotel or with family? What items will you need to live comfortably for those few days? Be sure to pack a little extra just in case there are any delays with the second closing or with your moving company.

If you can swing it, this can be a great time to plan a quick family vacation!

#5: Update Important Documents ASAP

You don't realize how many things are tied to your mailing address until you move! Take some time to get prepared so that you aren't scrambling to update your contact information with your various service providers once you move.

You have much better things to do than trying to track down important mail that went to the wrong address. Reviewing bank statements can be a great way to compile a list of vendors you need to update your address with.

The most important things to update quickly when you move are your driver's license, vehicle registration, and pet registration. The deadlines to make these updates vary from province to province so be sure to check the local rules.

Setting up mail forwarding with the postal service can save a ton of headaches. Just remember to update your address with a particular provider each time you receive a piece of forwarded mail. You will want to update your contact information with your banks, subscriptions, and insurance providers.

Congratulations!

You are ready for a smooth and successful move! We specialize in assisting our clients with long-distance moves. We have an extensive network and can help you find an excellent Realtor® in your new location. Whether you need to sell your current home, buy your next, or anything in between, don't hesitate to get in touch. We would love to be a part of your journey.

Handout Download

As promised, the link for the free, printable, handout with all these details is available at the link below.

Download the printable, 7 page colour guide here: Download Guide

Now that you know how to start preparing for your move you will be interested in this next video "Home Selling Downsizing Checklist" Link: https://randg.video/youtube-home-selling-checklist

Thank you for reading this blog and I will see you next time!

If you want to chat to find out more about buying or selling in Victoria, finding out the value of your home, or any other real estate topic then simply book a Phone or Zoom call at this link: https://cal.com/garysims

To subscribe to receive notifications of our YouTube video releases and newsletters please use this link: https://randg.video/subscribe-video-newsletter

Enjoy!
Gary and Rosemary

"We love people and we love homes!"