Tips for Making the Home-Buying and Moving Process Go Smoothly
Few experiences are more intimidating than buying a house and moving away from your home of many years. It’s always a risk, a gamble that you’ve made the right decision despite your misgivings and fears. You’re leaving behind what’s known and comfortable and moving your entire life into a largely unknown situation, in a new living space in a new neighborhood, possibly in a different city. As unlikely as it may seem, there are ways to ratchet down the stress factor and have a positive and enjoyable experience. Purchasing a new home should be an exciting time, full of new hopes and possibilities. With diligence and a little luck, it can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.
“Wants” and “don’t wants”
Before you begin looking at houses, make a list of all your “wants” and “don’t wants.” Let your list guide your search so you don’t waste time looking at homes that really don’t measure up. It’s hard to be happy with your new home if you’re willing to “settle.” It’ll also help you stick to your budget. But don’t assume you’ll find a home that’s a perfect fit for your “wants.” To stay within your price range and find a property that’s in a neighborhood you’re targeting, you may have to live with a few “don’t wants” to make it all work.
Test run
Give the area you’re aiming at a “test run” by eating at local restaurants and checking out the shopping opportunities. Is there a park nearby where you can take your dog for a run? How long of a commute will you have every day? Many people prefer a neighborhood with plenty of tree cover, while others don’t want to rake leaves. Whatever your preferences, finding an area you love is a great way to begin your search.
Finding an agent
Finding the right agent is important. This is the person who will do the real leg work, intervene for you with buyers and inspectors, and constantly be on the lookout for just the right home. Real estate agents know the ins and outs of the home-buying process, so your agent will be a source of information and a trusted advisor. These are all important responsibilities, so make sure you’re working with someone you know will be in your corner throughout the process.
Notes and photos
Have you ever looked at several houses, then couldn’t remember which one had that great bay window or the charming breakfast nook? Don’t be afraid to take pictures with your smartphone and jot down notes as thoughts and impressions occur to you. It’s in your best interest to be as informed as possible so you’re in a position to make the right decision when the time comes.
A smooth move
Unless you’re comfortable driving a big moving truck and have a lot of helpers at your disposal, your best bet is usually to hire a moving company to make your move go as smoothly as possible. Movers are expert at loading and unloading your belongings safely, and they’re insured. The average cost for hiring a mover is $699, quite a bargain when you add up the time, cost, and effort of doing it all yourself.
Declutter
Moving is a chance to get rid of your excess belongings and simplify your life. If you’ve accumulated a lot of clutter, there’s no sense carrying it along with you when you move if you need to declutter anyway. Go room by room and arrange items to give away, donate, or throw away.
Get organized
Try to approach the buying and moving process systematically. Get organized and try to be as focused as possible when deciding where you want to live and how you’ll get there with all your possessions. Reducing the stress that often comes with moving is worth the effort to get it right.
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This Blog was written by, Natalie Jones of http://homeownerbliss.info/