The act of moving isn’t a huge deal, it’s the months spent getting to that point that are!  How do you make sure all is in order and that you know what to expect?  Read on to make sure your transition out of your old home and into your new one is as seamless as possible.

1. Schedule Extra Time – It’s quite common that closing dates get pushed back.  This can get especially tricky if you are renting.  Leases tend to start on the first day of the month and end on the last day of the month.  This causes some very tight deadlines in trying to exit a property and move into a new one.  Try to have a buffer of a few days from when you close until you need to be into your new house.  Set up a move-in date of the 1^st but give yourself until the 5^th to be in the house – just in case something comes up.  Being over prepared will help your stress level come moving time.
2. Start to Pack Early – Sounds silly, but you’d be amazed how many times people think “I really don’t have that much stuff, I’ll just pack the day before we move.”  Yeah, right!  You never realize how much you have accumulated over the years until you start wrapping, boxing, and re-arranging.  This will creep up on you if you’re not careful – don’t delay! That being said, if you are selling your house, we suggest waiting until the buyer’s deposit becomes non-refundable before going “gangbusters” on packing up your home.
3. Give It Away or Throw It Away – If you haven’t used or worn it in less than 6 months, there’s a good chance you don’t need it.  Use this time as an opportunity to brighten a friend’s life by giving them something they will use!  Donate it to the many worthy charities in our area.  Less is more and you will be amazed at how good you feel with less “stuff” in your life.  Make room for new opportunities to enter your life!
4. Hire a Pro – This is when you don’t want to skimp.  Finding a cheap laborer on Craigslist could easily end up in all your possessions either being broken or stolen.  Spend a little extra and get a licensed and insured moving company.  It’s taken you a lot of years to collect your goodies, so treat them with respect.

If you’d like a recommendation on a good moving company please email or call me.  Good luck with your move!

Need help Selling, Buying, or with Property Management?  Please contact Gabe directly at:  239.825.2234, Gabe@GulfPointeProperties.com or www.GulfPointeProperties.com Gabe Mellein is the broker of Gulf Pointe Properties,   He is a member of The Naples Area Board of Realtors, Bonita Springs – Estero Association of Realtors, Realtor Association of Greater Fort Myers and the Beach, The Florida Association of Realtors, The National Association of Realtors, and is nationally certified in Feng Shui for Real Estate.