For most people, moving is the big downside of buying a new home. It is stressful and can also play havoc with your finances, but fortunately there are ways to make it easier.
And the first step, says Carl Coetzee, CEO of SA’s foremost home loan originator BetterBond*, is to set a definite moving date. “Many home sale agreements will just say that you can move in “on transfer” of the property into your name, but it is much better to settle on an actual, specific date in the contract, even if that means you will have to pay the seller some occupational rent.
“Then you can give proper notice to your landlord, if you are renting, and sort out your exit inspection and the return of your damage deposit.”
The next step is to book the movers. “You need to be smart about this and try not to move at year-end, month-end or on a weekend as these are their most expensive days,” he says. “You should also be sure to get comparative quotes. But don’t skimp on expertise or references, properly trained moving staff, roadworthy trucks or goods-in-transit insurance. It’s just not worth it.”
The third thing to arrange, Coetzee says, is a trusted baby-sitter and / or a pet minder for your moving day. “Children and animals generally find moving even more stressful than adults do, and even if they are not upset by all the upheaval, trying to direct the movers, unpack and keep an eye on them at the same time can be tricky.
“So it is much better for them to spend the day away from the chaos, preferably with a family member or friend they already know. With older children, you can also reduce moving anxiety by explaining what is happening and giving them time to adjust to the idea. Take them to your new home beforehand and show them where their room is, where their toys and other belongings will go, and where you plan to put your things.”
Other pre-move steps to take, he says, include the following:
- Check your insurance. It is very important to make sure that your new home will be insured from the day you move in, even if you have not taken transfer yet. The estate agent who sold you the property or your lender will be able to help you with this. You must also check your short-term insurance and make absolutely certain that your car, furniture, clothing and other things will be covered at the new address – and also while they are in transit.
- Handle all the paperwork ahead of time. Change the address for all your correspondence like bank statements, accounts and insurance notifications before you move, or preferably arrange to get them by email in future. Don’t forget the annual reminders you get for things like a TV licence, AA membership, magazine subscriptions or your post-box rental.
Anne-Marie Bamber is Norgarb Properties dedicated Home Loans Consultant. She has over 15 years’ experience in assisting clients with their Home Loan needs and has placed many happy families in their dream homes.Contact her today for no cost stress-free home-buying.
Anne-Marie Bamber
Home Loans consultant
Tel: +27 (0)21 851 3568 | Fax: +27 (0)21 441 1494 | Cell: +27 (0)82 071 1665
E-mail: anne-marie.bamber@betterlife.co.za
