Moving far away from your current home may seem like an extremely attractive option right now — especially as the COVID-19 pandemic means we’ve spent more time indoors than ever before. As a result, many of us are itching for a change of scenery — and a long-distance move would provide you with precisely that. However, as with any move, the process can be costly and stressful — after all, you need to organise so many different things within a small time frame. Nevertheless, it’s important that you do not let the thought of the process stop you from going ahead with the move and chasing your dreams. In fact, there are various steps you can take that will take the stress away, making the transition as smooth as it possibly can be.
By Team Savant
Image: Markus Spiske
Take your time. Though you may feel as though you are ready to move as soon as possible, it’s important that you don’t rush the process. Take some time to think carefully about all of your options — from the location of your move to exactly how much it will cost you. Nailing down these details can help ensure that you are better prepared for the move.
Choose your destination carefully. Whether you will be moving across the country or to a new continent altogether, you need to ensure that you choose the right destination for you. Remember, this decision carries far more weight than it does when you are deciding where you would like to visit when travelling. Try to view the potential destinations through the eye of a local as opposed to the tourist. What would the average day look like there? What kind of career could you pursue? What kind of lifestyles are available?
Check out the job market. While many companies are allowing employees to work remotely, you should also try to gain an understanding of what jobs are available in your new town. For example, would you be able to continue on your current career path, or should you prepare for a change? Building up your knowledge on the job market means that you can make a start on applying for jobs before the move — so that you have something in place to support you financially as soon as you arrive.
Start saving. Be wary of the fact that long-distance moves are expensive for a variety of reasons. Not only do you need to find a new home and pay a deposit — but you’ll also need to cover the costs of transportation and moving vans. Finally, you also have to pay for any renovations that will turn your house into a home. Understanding exactly what you need to pay for (and when) can help you put together a budget and stick to it.
Remember that you don’t have to move everything at once. When it comes to packing for a long-distance move, it’s highly likely that you won’t be able to take everything you own with you right away. For example, you may have to arrange for a moving company to bring down bulkier items of furniture further down the line so that you have a little time to settle into your new home. Furthermore, you can also work with Outside Storage companies, who can store cars, boats, RVs and trailers for both a long and short-term basis, meaning they’ll be ready for you when you’re able to collect them.
Start packing...soon. Packing your home for a big move takes a lot of time and effort. In fact, you’d be surprised about how many boxes worth of furniture, clothes and other belongings you have hidden around your home. Therefore, it’s important that you start packing sooner rather than later to avoid any last-minute stress where you find yourself throwing things into boxes in a frenzy. Start with items that you don’t use as often so that you won’t miss them - and pack things up room by room until you’re ready to go.
Remember why you’re doing it. Whenever you feel overwhelmed with the prospect of moving — whether you’re putting in an offer for a property or trying to get to grips with your finances —remember why you are moving in the first place. Though it can feel as though there’s always something to do - you’re opening yourself up to a world of new possibilities and adventures. You’re going to get to experience a truly fresh start — meaning that you can make new friends and challenge yourself in a new way. That’s incredibly exciting — so let yourself feel excited about it.