Keeping Moving Costs Under Control By Sitting Down And Making Lists First

If you're planning on moving for the first time, you may think that it's as simple as boxing up everything you own and then moving it from point A to point B. Over the years, you've accumulated a lot of stuff and there has been some wear and tear on the home you're in now. It's important to sit down and make a few lists to help the moving budget stay under control and to eliminate nasty surprises. This guide explains which lists to create and what to put in them.

List of Maintenance Needs at Both Homes

Before you move into your new place, some maintenance might need done. The same goes for the home you're in now. This list is comprised of two parts. The first part is what you need to do at the new place before you move in. The second part is what you need to do at the old place once you move everything out.

Walk through both homes and look everything over completely. Then write down what needs accomplished. Even though you have two lists, the items are likely the same. Some of the things to put on this list include:

• carpet cleaning or redoing the floors
• replacing appliances
• painting
• deep cleaning of bathrooms and kitchen
• storage facility costs
• plumbing fixtures
• electrical repairs or added outlets
• utility deposits and hook up charges at the new place

Obtain quotes for how much each of these cost and then plan your budget accordingly. Remember that the money for maintenance at the new place is the first cost because these things need completed before you move in your belongings.

Note: As you plan to keep things in storage, consider the moving timeline when going over the rental contract. Stick to this timeline so that you don't owe more in storage facility fees. Contact a facility, such as Belmont Self Storage, to see how they can best fill your needs.

List of Obscure Moving Expenses

As simple as paying for a move sounds, there is a lot more to it than just packing supplies, a moving truck and movers. Add to this list things that you might forget during the hustle and bustle of the move. These expenses include:

• meals out while the kitchen is unpacked and set up
• meals, drinks and payment to friends and family helpers
• child and pet care during the move
• replenishment of food and toiletry supplies
• extra paint and a paintbrush to touch up areas that get nicked during the move

Stick to this budget as much as possible, but pad this list a little so that you aren't caught off-guard by any unforeseen expenses that you can't handle.

Take the time to write out every possible expense that you can think of when moving for the first time. Use the lists throughout the entire process and if you have extra money left over, treat yourself to something great for your new home.