Moving? 7 Money Saving Tips

Whether you are looking to upsize, downsize or just take advantage of the hot real estate market, your plans will likely need to include a move to your new home. Chances are you don’t want to spend more than necessary to make that move. Before running out to buy new boxes or hire a mover, take some time to make a plan. Planning is the easiest way to make your move smooth and budget-friendly.

Here are seven things to think about that can help you save some money when it comes time to move.

1. Create a moving budget – The cost to move your belongings will likely be a major part of your moving budget, but you will want to plan for other expenses that can really add up. Expenses like storing your furniture, tips for the movers, boarding pets, restocking your kitchen shelves and refrigerator and utility deposits need to be factored into your moving budget. Plus, you will want to leave some wiggle room for unexpected moving related costs that are bound to come up. Are there things you need to do before you move into your new home? Determine what are must do’s versus nice to do’s and build that in your budget.
2. Purge what you don’t need – Getting ready for a move is the ideal time to ditch the excess stuff you have been accumulating, especially if you are downsizing. Why hold on to things you no longer use or serve a purpose in your life? Also, most moves are priced by weight, which means getting rid of your clutter up front can help save you money on the move. Sell the items you can for some extra cash and donate the rest.
3. Economize on moving supplies – The cost of moving supplies — boxes, packing tape, packing peanuts and paper, moving blankets — can add up. To save money, check your workplace or local businesses for free boxes or tap your network of friends and family to see if anyone has supplies from a recent move they are willing to share. Check social media websites like Facebook Marketplace or Nextdoor to see if anyone is giving away these items or selling them cheap.
4. Decide what you will do yourself and what you will hire out – Whether it is packing, moving your things, painting, or cleaning your new home before you move in, you will likely save money by tackling some projects on your own. Be realistic about how much you can (and want to) take on and what is better left to the professionals. Determining these things ahead of the move will help create an accurate budget.
5. Shop around for a mover – Unless you have friends or family you can recruit to help you move, chances are you’ll need to hire a moving company. Request a free written cost estimates from several top-rated moving companies. Ask about potential added costs like charges for disassembling and reassembling furniture, packing bulky items or disposal fees. Choosing the cheapest mover could cost you more in the long run. Consider moving in the “off season” rather than a busy time like summer. Moving is a competitive business, so look for deals and specials and don’t be afraid to negotiate on price.
6. Determine what you need to do right away and what can wait – Prioritize new furniture, appliances, and improvements. If the new kitchen doesn’t have a refrigerator, chances are that will be on the top of your list. Consider making small improvements to spruce up a room. New hardware on bathroom and kitchen cabinets can refresh a room until you are ready to make more major improvements.
7. Expect unexpected expense – It is likely a few expenses will come up during the move you do not anticipate. Parking tickets for a double-parked truck, hotel stays waiting for the movers to arrive, a few damaged items, unplanned fees are possible. Be sure to add a category in your budget for these kind of surprise expenses.

Town & Country offers several products that can help you pay for the move to your new home. Whether it is a home equity line of credit, a personal loan, or a rewards Visa credit card, we have options to meet your moving needs and fit your budget. Reach out to us anytime to talk about your financial plans. You can connect with us at info@tcfcu.com or 800.649.3495 to schedule time to talk with one of our Member Service Representatives.