8 Tips for Lowering Moving Costs During Your Move
TIP 1: GET A FREE PET SITTER
Are you moving with your dog or cat? If you have a friend with pets, offer to pet sit for free sometime so they can return the favor while you pack and move. You will have an easier time not having to worry about your pet, and they will be happier with a familiar friend. Plus, you can save potentially hundreds of dollars on kennel fees.
TIP 2: LEARN ABOUT FREE AREA ATTRACTIONS
When you are ready to explore your new community, you can get free printed materials about what to see and do. Check with the local chamber of commerce, convention and visitor's bureau, and historical societies. You can also learn about area attractions via their websites. Discovering all that your new community has to offer can be fun for the entire family. You might even let the kids plan the first excursion.
TIP 3: NETWORK
Are you moving because your spouse is taking a new job? Get busy now to find work in your new locale. If your spouse's company offers assistance, take advantage of it. To get a feel for the local job market, subscribe to the daily newspaper and find classified employment listings online. Look for jobs on Indeed, CareerBuilder, and Monster.
Start networking locally through professional associations in the new community. You can also reach out to your connections on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter. If they know someone in their network you can ask for an introduction.
Temporary work can provide income and give you valuable exposure to people. It may even lead to a permanent position. The temporary workforce is not limited to clerical and industrial positions. Attorneys, accountants, nurses, architects, and other professionals can also find temp assignments these days.
TIP 4: REVIEW INSURANCE POLICIES
Ask your insurance company to quote coverage for your new home. But do not stop there. The internet makes it easy to shop around. Beware of overlapping coverage. Compare your homeowner and automobile policies, and any umbrella policy you may have. Do not pay for coverage you do not need.
TIP 5: COLLECT SECURITY DEPOSITS
Are you vacating an apartment? You may be owed a refund of your security deposit. Keep the name, telephone, and address of the apartment owner or manager. Follow up if you have not received your money within 30 days after you vacate. If you paid a refundable pet deposit, get that back as well.
TIP 6: KNOW YOUR VALUATION OPTIONS
Valuation refers to the amount of liability that Atlas assumes, and, therefore, the amount you may receive if an item is lost or damaged while in the care of your Atlas Agent. Before you agree to a valuation option, take the time to understand the pros and cons of available choices.
Accidents happen, so it is a good idea to do your research, which may result in saving you money in the long run.
TIP 7: LOOK FOR SPECIALS ON CABLE AND INTERNET
Little extra costs can add up quickly. Be on the lookout for deals and specials when setting up your utilities, cable, and internet after the move. Most companies offer new customer deals or specials for being a new resident of an area.
TIP 8: CONSIDER UNEXPECTED MOVING EXPENSES
In order to stay within a budget for your big move, consider planning ahead to accommodate unexpected moving expenses. Lodging in between your move, new décor, utility fees, and even groceries can add up quickly, so be sure to set aside some extra money just in case.