Moving is stressful. Add in the holidays and you might not be feeling very festive. Instead of focusing on the negatives, focus on the excitement of starting a new chapter in your new Cypress Green home. To help with the stress, here are some tips for planning a smooth move during the holidays:
Try Not to Move Before Christmas
No one wants to spend Christmas living out of boxes. If possible, plan to move the week between Christmas and the new year. You will feel less stressed. You can also pack up your holiday decorations and put them in storage in your new home.
Plan Ahead
Keep two calendars. The first lists important dates for your move such as changing over utilities, what to pack and when and hiring movers. The second lists your holiday obligations. If you can, reduce your list of holiday activities. This will give you more time to pack.
Declutter and Donate
Moving and the holidays are both great times to declutter. As you pack, go through your stuff and set aside things you don’t want or need in your new home. Donate your gently used items to a thrift store.
Take Your Time
Take your time to pack so you don’t feel overwhelmed and rushed. Pack closets, spare rooms and the garage first. Summer clothes, rarely used small kitchen appliances and that collection of mugs on the top shelf of the cupboard can also go into boxes.
Hire Professional Movers
Hiring professional movers will free up time for you to enjoy the holidays. Many moving companies offer lower rates and discounts in December. Use the money you save to add on packing assistance, freeing up even more time.
Create Two Budgets
Moving can be expensive. So can the holidays. Get a handle on your finances by creating a moving budget and a holiday budget. Your moving costs may be fixed, so look for ways to save money by purchasing less expensive gifts, attending fewer holiday events and passing on hosting holiday meals.
Downsize Holiday Expectations
Don’t try to do it all this year. If you are moving before Christmas, put up fewer decorations and skip the tree. Plan a special “tree lighting” ceremony for when you move into your new home. If your move will take place after the holidays, plan a special day to take down and stow your decorations. Ask family members to host holiday dinners and parties. Let potential holiday guests know your home will mostly be in boxes. They may decide to rent a hotel room instead.
Share Your New Address
Kill two birds with one stone by sending a moving announcement with your holiday cards.
Celebrate!
No matter when you move this holiday season, celebrate when you get to your new home. You deserve a pat on the back for a job well done.