Moving to a new house is exciting. You get a fresh start and a chance to make the new place your own comfortable spot. Getting the move done can be a big job, but it need not be stressful. Luckily, there are ways to avoid any disturbances.
Extra Money You Could Use for Your Move: Tips to Get Back Your Deposit
Most people who are moving out of a rental home want their deposit back – to make a deposit on a new rental place or use the money as a down payment on an apartment or house. Some landlords withhold money from your deposit while others refuse to give it back.
Here is what you should know to make sure you get back your deposit on time.
Plan ahead
Most tenants don’t think about their deposit until they move out. Before you decide to pack your things and leave, you can take a few steps to help you get your security deposit back in full and on time.
First, you need to give your landlord a 30-day notice. If you don’t give proper notice, the landlord may deduct from your deposit. If you need to leave before the lease ends, make sure to find someone else to rent the place.
Always ask to attend the final home inspection, so you can do more cleaning or fix problems if the landlord requires it.
Don’t confuse month’s rent with a deposit
If you’ve paid a security deposit, don’t assume you can use it for the last month’s rent (unless the landlord is OK with it). In most cases, landlords want to hold on to the deposit until you move out.
Know your rights
When it comes to deposit limits, deadlines for returning security deposits, and so on, it is essential to know your rights. You should know when the landlord must return your deposit and how the landlord can use the deposit.
Tips to Prepare for Your Move
With proper planning, a moving checklist, and preparation, moving can become an enjoyable process.
Here is how to best prepare for your move.
Calculate your moving costs
Before you start your moving preparation, it is essential to calculate how much you will spend in the process. There are a lot of expenses to consider – from hiring professional moving services to utility costs. It is vital to pick a home that is properly sealed, so you aren’t wasting electricity.
Don’t forget to compare electricity prices in your area and select a plan that works for you and your budget. If you’ve never switched to a new electricity supplier, you will undoubtedly save money by moving to a different, cheaper deal. Before you make an electric choice, compare different deals, and include the cost in your moving preparation plan.
Aside from switching electricity providers, a few other moving costs to consider are moving boxes, cleaning, travel costs (food, gas, lodging), temporary housing accommodations, bills due at your old house, and so on.
Ask your friends for help
There is nothing wrong with asking your friends to help with your move. Plan in advance how you can use their support. Are they going to help you with lifting heavy furniture, watching your pets and kids, unpacking belongings, or with something else?
Change your address
Before you start packing, don’t forget to change the address at the post office. Make a list of all the essential people and utilities whom you may need to contact before your move. Your list should include things like electricity switch, setting up gas, water, Internet, cable, changing the address, updating online shopping accounts, notifying your bank accounts and insurance companies, and so on.
Moving and Packing Tips
The following packing and moving tips will help you stay organized and have a stress-free move to your new house.
Use the right size boxes
Put heavy things in small boxes and lightweight items in bigger ones. Also, put heavier things on the bottoms and lighter items on the top.
Don’t leave the boxes half-empty
Fill in any gaps with towels, clothing, and packing paper.
Label moving boxes
When it comes to packing and unpacking in your new home – content labels are your best friend. Make sure to label all boxes per room. Having to open each box separately because you have no idea where you packed the essentials is time-consuming.
Keep the essentials with you
One day before the move, pack your everyday essentials, including a toothbrush, a change of clothes, medications, and paperwork into a separate bag.
As long as you follow these packing tips, you will be on your way to a smooth and successful move into your new, beautiful home. Remember, planning is the key to having a stress-free move.