You’ve got a moving date, and you’re already mentally planning where your furniture will go and how the rooms in your new home will look. However, you might be getting a little ahead of yourself, to the detriment of your finances. Moving to a new home is extremely exciting, but careful planning can help to ensure that it doesn’t cost you unnecessarily. These are our tips to help you make sure that you have your priorities in order for when you move home.
Plan To Change Your Bills Over As Early As Possible
Notifying your energy suppliers as soon as possible means that you can find out if you are in credit or in debit sooner rather than later. This is common with energy suppliers, and as the most popular time of year to move is Summer (specifically August), you might find you are in credit because you are not using as much heating or lighting as you would in colder months. However, if you are moving in the colder months, you might find that you owe a lump sum. If this is left to the last minute, it could take a lot of people by surprise, particularly at a time when every penny counts!
A guide to payday loans and all other common types of loan will help you find the best source of credit that could help you through a tight spot. Remember, that there are other important people you will need to notify when moving, including:
- The DVLA
- Your employer
- Banks & credit card companies
- The council
- Post redirection services
- Phone and broadband companies
Planning Moving Day
Packing up all your belongings might seem like the most pressing item on your to-do list, but this is something that can be done last-minute, without too many ramifications. It is more important to plan the logistics of your moving day in advanced, because leaving it to the last minute could make it much more expensive, especially when using a professional moving service.
The average cost a removal company is expected to be £1192.67. However, the level of service will vary and this sum can fluctuate, booking as far in advance as possible could help you lock in a cheaper deal. Similarly, you might choose to move mid-week, when moving tariffs are likely to be lower, but this will depend on your working schedule and flexibility.
We recommend having a clear out as soon as you know you are moving and also make an inventory of all the things you want to move. This means you can get an accurate moving quote and minimise the risk of unexpected fees and costs. Throw out, donate or rehome items you do not want to move so you don’t have to pay for their transit.
If you are planning on moving everything yourself using a self-hire van, make sure you organise this as soon as possible for the best rates. Don’t forget to use a price comparison website, too! If you are taking this task on yourself and asking your friends to volunteer to help, make sure you lock them in and use reliable people to stick to the term of the hire.
Give Notice To Your Landlord
If you are renting your current home, it is crucial that you notify your landlord as soon as possible. Failing to do so could mean you get stuck paying an additional month’s rent. This can be particularly worrying if you have allocated that money towards paying your mortgage, which could negatively impact your credit score.
Ask The Estate Agent For Any Additional Information You May Need
Before you move into your new home, there are a couple of things you might need to know. For example, where the gas and electricity meters are. This kind of information should be available to an estate agent and you have every right to ask for it. Knowing where the stopcock is, the thermostat, fuse box etc, could save you valuable time – and money – on moving day, as it could help you prevent any issues that occur whilst moving.
Little hiccups when moving are almost inevitable. It’s always a stressful – and extremely exciting – time, but the key is being organised. This is particularly crucial if you are moving longer distances, where going back once you’ve left is going to be a real hassle.