With so many things to arrange, it’s easy to overlook the actual costs of making the house move itself. Planning ahead can help to reduce an already stressful day.
Here’s our quick checklist of some tips to think about if you’re planning to move home, whether you’re renting or buying.
1. Know the costs
Once you know the cost of your new mortgage payments, new insurance policies, solicitors’ and estate agents’ fees, make time to find out about moving-day costs. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned home mover, it’s important to know and prepare for these costs, which can be surprisingly high.
2. Know what’s coming
As moving day approaches you might be surprised how costs and fees start to mount up. But with careful planning you can prepare for the cost of moving day, so you don’t get any unexpected surprises.
Take stock to see what’s coming, so you know which costs need to be paid for by when.
Here are some key things to be aware of:
- Removal costs – shop around for several different quotes (and references too) to find a reliable firm. The British Association of Removers (BAR) can provide cost estimates from BAR-approved firms.
- Removal insurance – check the removal firm you hire is insured. If you’re moving yourself, think about arranging insurance cover. Check if your existing home insurance policy will cover your move – many policies will if you’re using a professional removal firm.
- Storage costs – shop around to compare prices and security arrangements and get a sense of average costs. Estimate the length of time you’ll need storage, as prices will depend on this.
- Cleaning costs – if you’re moving from a rental property you must usually leave it clean and tidy. Not doing so might contravene your tenancy agreement and your landlord might be allowed to charge you for the cost of a professional cleaner. Bearing this in mind, you might want to shop around and pay a professional to clean your property before you leave.
- Mail redirection costs – Royal Mail’s Redirection service is a reliable and cost-effective way of continuing to receive mail when you move home. It also reduces the risk you will be a victim of identity fraud. This service is available for periods of 1, 3, 6 or 12 months, and you can redirect to any UK or overseas address.
- Extra moving-day costs – think ahead to the day itself. Do you need to budget for extra childcare or kennels for a pet? Will you have the time or facilities to cook or should you plan for takeaways for a day or two? These costs can all add up so make sure you include them in your budget.
3. Get insured
If you’ve bought a new house, you’ll probably need building insurance. If you have a mortgage, your lender will insist on this. Remember, you don’t have to buy it from your lender, so shop around to get the best deal for you.
You can also buy insurance to cover the loss of or damage to the contents of your home, such as your furniture and electrical goods. Don’t forget to compare the terms and conditions as well as prices.
4. Sort out your new bills
Get to grips with your new household utility bills as soon as you can. You don’t have to stay with the previous occupant’s providers. This is a great time to shop around and find the best deals for you.
Set up Direct Debits for payments so the money is automatically paid from your bank account when it’s due. This will help you keep track of your budget and avoid late-payment charges. And some utility companies might give you a discount if you pay this way.
5. Keep track of your new budget
It’s a good idea to review your budget whenever your financial situation changes.
As you settle in your new home, make time to work out how much you’ve got coming in and going out each month.