No matter whether you are renting or buying, upsizing or downsizing, or moving out for the first or fiftieth time, there is no doubt that the process can be expensive. The team here at MOVE Bank have pooled our collective experience and come up with a list of our ultimate moving hacks for your home. We cover where to spend, and how to save when you make the move.
Moving homes can be an exciting but stressful experience, and it can be easy to blow your budget, especially if you are moving into a bigger space. We have compiled some of our go-to tips to save money, as well as advice on where it is worth spending a little more.
1) Make a budget and stick to it
Speaking of blowing the budget… making a budget and sticking to it can be a lifesaver when it comes to moving. We recommend a spreadsheet that takes into account everything from moving trucks to electricity connection fees, and any new furniture or appliances you might need.
If you’re moving out for the first time or into a much bigger space, break down your budget by rooms so you can get a clear picture of how you will fill your home.
2) Second-hand doesn’t mean second best
If you’ve completed your budget and the figures are looking a little tight, you should consider what items you are willing to purchase second-hand. Places like Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree have a lot to offer, and people are often selling goods in near-new condition.
These platforms are a great place to save on big ticket items like refrigerators, washing machines, and dining room sets. You can also grab some great décor items to help make your new space feel like home. If you’re into DIY, you can grab some great deals and make them your own.
3) Weigh up the cost of storage
If you’re a bargain hunter and love a good sale, you may see an opportunity for a massive saving that you just can’t pass up. This tip is for people who have a move in date that is a little further down the line, for instance if you’re building a new home or undertaking a significant renovation before move-in day.
You can save a lot of money snagging great second-hand pieces or shopping the sales, but you may not have anywhere to store it. Depending on the savings you are making, it may be cost-efficient to hire out a storage unit until it’s time to move.
4) Make sure you are set for the first night
When moving homes it can be easy to think about the bigger picture and forget the little details. Making sure you are all set for your first night in your new home with things like toilet paper, a towel to shower with, and a mattress to sleep on will make all the difference. As for dinner, takeout on paper plates is a perfectly acceptable first-night meal!
5) Spend on the important things
There are a few things that we would recommend investing in when you’re moving homes. If you’re purchasing a new bed, spending money to buy a good mattress that suits your needs is important. If you’re living alone or want extra peace of mind, consider installing a home security system – you can get starter packs that sync with your phone for under $300.
Also, don’t forget to set-aside some money to buy things that will make your home feel, well, ‘homey’. A couple of cushions, a nice throw blanket, and one or two plants (we won’t judge if it’s more) will instantly make the space feel more like your own.
6) Measure twice, return never
Now this one can be a little tricky but can save you a lot of heartache. Making sure that your dream lounge actually fits in your new loungeroom is a must before clicking ‘add to cart’. This advice goes for all of your bulkier items, especially fridges which are notorious for not fitting through doorways or into their allocated spaces.
If you’re building new, make sure you double check the measurements on your plans before you buy any furniture. If you’re moving into an existing home, placing masking tape on the floor where your furniture would go is a cheap and easy way to make sure that everything fits into a room before you buy.
7) Call in a few favours
Got a friend that drives a ute? Need a few extra hands to help move boxes? Everything is more fun with friends and that includes moving. Ask your friends to help and save a little money on moving trucks, you can repay them with some of that first-night takeout you’ll be getting.
8) Protect your home and what’s inside
While it might not be the first thing in your mind, home and contents insurance is an investment to help protect your belongings. Whether this means updating your current policy to your new address, or taking our cover for the first time, it should be at the top of your to-do list. Be sure everything is up-to-date and protected before you move in.
Need cover? Get a quote online or speak to our Insurance Specialists today on 1300 362 216.
This blog post is for general information purposes only and is not intended as financial or professional advice. It does not have regard to the financial situation or needs of any reader and must not be relied upon as financial product or other professional advice. You should seek your own independent financial, legal and taxation advice before making any decision about any action in relation to the material in this article. Railways Credit Union Limited trading as MOVE Bank ABN 91 087 651 090. AFSL/ Australian Credit License number 234 536. Insurance is issued by Insurance Australia Limited ABN 11 000 016 722 AFSL 227681 trading as CGU Insurance. Consider the Product Disclosure Statement, available on our website or by calling 1300 362 216, to see if the product is right for you. You should read the PDS and all policy documentation for all the conditions, exclusions and limitations of this policy that limit or exclude cover.
