Mistakes to Avoid When Moving Into A New Home
Finding and closing on a new home can be a stressful process, but that’s only the first half of relocation. The next step is to pack all of your belongings and transfer them over to your new house or apartment, which comes with its own set of challenges. There are often time constraints, communication errors, and more obstacles that make this process difficult.
How can new homebuyers or renters avoid common mistakes when moving into their new home? We’ve listed some examples of frequently made mistakes and how you can prepare to avoid them.
Avoid These Common Mistakes When Moving
Sending Your Belongings Last Minute
Always be prepared for the unexpected, and that includes delays or other unforeseen circumstances. If you’re using a moving company to transport your belongings to your new home, make sure that you have everything moved out and scheduled to arrive on an ideal date. By waiting for the last minute, you’re risking delays caused by weather, road blocks, and more. You may end up waiting a couple of days for all of your belongings to arrive.
To avoid any major issues due to moving companies and transportation, always pack a small bag or kit with important belongings and documents that may be urgently needed. Hold onto this bag separately until the rest of your belongings arrive!
Renting Out Your Old Home Without Consideration
Holding on to your old home might seem like a smart move—it provides a safety net and the potential to earn rental income. However, while this scenario sounds ideal, it’s essential to prepare for less favorable outcomes as well.
Renting out a home can be a great investment if you know what you’re doing. The challenge is that many people are unfamiliar with how to handle key aspects of being a landlord, such as collecting rent and monitoring tenants. Landlord responsibilities go beyond these basics and also include property maintenance, managing vacancies, and planning for unforeseen expenses.
Landlords must account for costs that exceed rental income, meaning some properties may not be profitable as rentals. To avoid financial strain, have a solid plan in place to manage your property remotely and ensure you can cover mortgage payments during vacancy periods.
Holding On To Unnecessary Items
We all have that box of stuff that’s lasted for years, untouched. But the reality is: not everything needs to make the journey with you. Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter and embrace a fresh start.
If you haven’t used something in years or it’s easily replaceable, it’s time to let it go. Consider hosting a garage sale or donating items; you might even offset some moving expenses. Plus, your wallet will thank you when you’re not paying to transport unnecessary weight.
Simplify by leaving behind things that only take up space: old paperwork, junk mail, outdated gadgets, unworn clothes, half-used cleaning products, and any kitchen tools gathering dust. The lighter your load, the smoother and more affordable your move will be.
Underestimating Supplies
Another common rookie mistake when moving: running out of boxes halfway through packing. It’s easy to underestimate just how much you’ll need— not just boxes, but also bubble wrap, packing paper, tape, markers, and other supplies you might not have considered.
For a small apartment, you’ll likely need 30-40 boxes. For a larger home, plan on over 100. Start by taking inventory early and stock up on extra materials. It’s always better to have more than you need than to scramble for boxes at the last minute. You’ll be thankful to have extra boxes in the event of an emergency or unexpected mishaps.
Unorganized & Incorrect Packing Methods
Fragile items, like an antique vase or delicate artwork, are often at risk during a move. Unfortunately, moving is one of the most common ways these treasured pieces get damaged. First-time movers often overlook the importance of proper packing materials, leaving fragile items vulnerable to jostling around in flimsy boxes.
To protect your valuables, invest in high-quality packing supplies. It’s the difference between unpacking a set of cherished china or finding a box full of porcelain shards. Pro tip: always double-tape the bottom of your boxes. For heavier items, add a third layer for extra support. It’s a simple step that goes a long way in ensuring your fragile items arrive safely.
Conclusion: Take Time & Prepare for Moving
Moving into a new home can be a daunting process, but with careful planning and preparation, you can avoid common pitfalls and make your transition smoother. By organizing your belongings, decluttering unnecessary items, and investing in the right supplies, you’ll save time, money, and stress.
Whether it’s managing your move-out timeline, safeguarding fragile valuables, or planning for rental property challenges, a proactive approach ensures a successful start in your new home. With these tips in mind, you’ll be better equipped to tackle your move and enjoy the excitement of settling into your next chapter.
Do you need assistance with the moving process in the state of Texas? Oscar Combs Realtor is a licensed and professional realtor that offers relocation assistance services, such as coordination with moving companies and more. Contact us today to get started!
