One of the most common questions I get as a real estate agent (yup, I have a license here in New Jersey), is how to save some money during a move. Whether you are buying your first home, upsizing or downsizing, moving can be very stressful.
Here are my top 5 time tested tips to help you have an easier and smoother relocation without spending a fortune.
(This post is sponsored by New Jersey Transport Inc. Moving Company.)
Purge
It’s very easy to accumulate a lot of stuff specially when we lived on a certain place for some time. So, when it is time to move, you will be surprised how much unused or unwanted things are just sitting in some cabinet or drawer. The more items you have to bring with you to the new place, the more expensive it gets. Think of the time you will spend packing as well as the number of boxes you will need. Also, more things to transport require a bigger (and pricier) truck.
Earn Some Extra Cash
Now that you have gone through the stuff that you have. It’s time to make money from the things that did not spark joy to you. Remember, “One person’s junk is another person’s treasure.” is very much accurate in these days.
Doing a yard sale may take some extra time and effort. But it is a good way to dispose those unwanted items and get easy money in just one to two days. Since you are no longer attached to the items, you won’t feel guilty if you lower your price when a buyer haggles. Also, if you are selling your house, a garage sale is great strategy to advertise your property to potential buyers without extra costs.
For those who don’t have the time or space to do a yard sale, social media can be your friend. You can post items through Facebook marketplace, local groups or even your own timeline. Take note, if you are selling locally, you don’t need to spend money on shipping. Porch pick up is very “in” right now.
Donate
Still have a bunch of items after a yard sale or marketplace posting? Time to donate those items! Small, local, non profit organizations are always in need of clothing, small appliances, baby items, books and kitchen wares. Make sure to ask for a donation receipt if they have one as it will be handy during tax season. You can get up to $600 tax deduction from charitable donations. Check with your accountant for the exact amount as it may vary per state.
Reuse
One of the biggest expenses when one moves is need or urge to buy new furniture. I am not going to argue with you because it is really nice to see new things to go along with our new space. Before you go crazy shopping, check if the house you will buy or rent has existing furniture that the owner is willing to let go.
Bulky items such as dining tables, credenzas, entertainment centers or bed frames which homeowners or landlords use to stage their houses may not be a valuable to them as you think. Ask if they are willing to sell or even include those pieces with the house. Who knows you might get those furniture for free.
Don’t Do It All Yourself
Most people often think that it is way cheaper to DIY (do it yourself) than hire a moving company. Yes, renting a van or truck and driving it yourself may seem more budget friendly at first. It is only until the moving day and the days after it that you will realize the extra costs.
What am I referring to exactly? Chances are you will ask the “help” of your family and friends when you transport your possessions. Unless you are lucky enough to come from a family of movers or fitness enthusiasts, carrying heavy items can be a very strenuous activity. Talk about the risk of physical injuries not only for you but for those who are helping you as well. Not to mention, the extra stress on how we can “payback” the favor.
That’s why when people ask me if hiring a moving company will more practical, my answer hands down is a YES! Keep in mind though that not all moving companies are created equal. Companies like All in One Moving & Storage, Inc. with years of experience and a good reputation of customer satisfaction will make sure that every penny you paid is worth it (or more).
When looking for a moving company, try to find one that has a variety of services that will fit your needs. Whether it is full service, fragile items only, loading and unloading, these options will give you some flexibility that will save you money in the long run. Even if you decide on getting last minute movers.
Do you have any relocation or real estate questions? Let me know.
Hugs,
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