Just a bit of expert advice…
Finally, after all that searching and dealing with mortgage advisors and solicitors, you have a completion date for your new property and need to start thinking about moving in. In almost every survey regarding the most stressful things you can do, moving house comes in the top three. However, if you follow a few simple rules, moving should never become a stressful experience.
David McGarry, international moving consultant says, ‘For larger moves, get a removal company to handle it, bringing professional services and years of experience. Always look for a member of the British Association of Removers (BAR). The BAR have a Code of Practice that is recognised by the Office of Fair Trading, protecting the consumer and providing a standard of service you can rely on. I would always recommend getting three companies to quote - then you can make an informed choice.
If you do use a removal firm, or even if you are doing it yourself, then David has a few hints to make sure things go smoothly.
‘Use strong packing boxes – and don’t make them too heavy to lift. Use smaller boxes for books/CDs/DVDs/photo albums and other heavy items.
‘Label all boxes so you know what is in each one and where they need to go in the new property.
‘Keep essentials in one box, which is easy to identify. This should include things like: Kettle, tea/coffee, cups, plates, local take away menus, toilet roll etc.
‘If you have children or pets it is often a good idea to get them looked after for the day - the last thing you want is for them to be running around getting in your way and increasing stress levels.
‘Ensure that your bed is one of the first things you put back together - then at least you can just collapse, exhausted onto it later! You can always leave unpacking everything else until the next morning!’