Whether you have a new job or desire a change of scenery, there’s plenty to think about when moving to a new city. We have compiled some important tips for saving money when you embark on your journey. Read on to discover a few tricks.
Research Housing Options
With real estate costs rising, affordable housing may sometimes feel like a myth. However, it’s important to keep your eyes open to all possibilities. For instance, you could save money by living in a modular home.
A manufacturer builds modular homes, also known as prefabricated homes, in a factory and ships them to their destinations in several parts. Builders then assemble the home on-site, which varies from the building process for manufactured homes. However, there are more differences between manufactured and modular homes.
Prefabricated homes generally have a quick turnaround time and are highly customizable. The same financing options are also available that people get on manufactured homes, which is great, even though this kind of housing costs less overall.
Prepare Early
When planning to move, it’s best to start getting everything in order sooner rather than later. You should give yourself one to three months to prepare, if possible. Waiting until the last minute often results in a more costly move.
Here’s a checklist that can help you get on the right track and save in the long run:
- Begin sorting through your belongings early to have less stuff to pack.
- Decide what to sell, throw out, and donate.
- Estimate how many boxes you’ll need.
- Look for affordable and free boxes on websites like Craigslist or the U-Haul Box Exchange.
- Pack as much as possible by yourself, even if you decide to hire professional movers.
Consider Professional Movers
An important tip for saving money when moving to a new city is to consider professional movers. As we mentioned, pack what you can on your own, but you may want professionals to do the heavy lifting with items like furniture. This is especially true if you’re moving far away from friends and family.
It’s in your best interest to get quotes from multiple moving companies, which you can do when you start early. You also should research them thoroughly. It’s important to read reviews and see the experiences other folks had. Taking this step improves your chances of finding an affordable moving company that can work for you.
Another factor to consider is the timing of the move. Companies often charge more in the spring and summer, though you can sometimes get a better deal when it’s slow in the winter and fall. You should also see if you can get a fixed rate rather than paying the movers for each hour of work.
We wish you the best in preparing for your move. By planning some key details, you will save money on your journey.
