There is a lot of doom and gloom around in the property market right now. But tomorrow is a day when things will really get moving.
August 29th is, according to industry experts, the busiest day of the year to pack up the boxes and get the keys to a new property.
Over 22,000 moves are expected, which is four times more than average. People should prepare for the worst and hope for the best, as the huge number of moves will inevitably cause a backlog.
Removals companies will be stretched, and delays are likely. In fact, 85 per cent of removal firms say delays are more common on busy moving days, with delays in the transfer of funds, keys not being released in time and delays in the property chain the main reasons.
Over 22,000 moves are expected on August 29
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Some of these causes are out of your control. But others are things you can deal with. With that in mind, here are my five top tips for a smoother moving day.
Plan Early and Declutter
You’re relocating your whole life, so start planning at least 8-12 weeks in advance, especially for conveyancing, which can take 12-16 weeks in the UK. You should create a moving checklist and timeline.
Save time on packing by using this as an opportunity to declutter and potentially make some extra cash as well.
This could also help lower moving costs as removal companies often charge based on volume or weight.
Pack Strategically and Label Clearly
Fourteen per cent of delays are caused by people not being packed up and ready to move. Packing always takes longer than you think, and you will probably need more boxes than you imagine.
Start early by packing non-essential items, and these can be the first to be loaded onto the removals van.
Order boxes well in advance, particularly if you are moving around a popular time as this could seriously delay you.
It’s a good idea to label things clearly and by room so you can quickly unload and sort out at your leisure, knowing that things you will need straight away were packed last and can come out first. This should include chargers, toiletries and a kettle!
Understand Legal and Financial Obligations
A huge 88 per cent of delays on moving day are caused by delays in the transfer of funds on completion day.
Whether you’re buying or selling, keep in regular contact with your solicitor to meet deadlines for contracts, searches and stamp duty, if applicable.
There might be some last-minute details which can cause a delay to the exchange and completion, such as professional cleaning or what items are being left in the property, so check the small print.
Hire a Reliable Removal Company
Research and book a reputable removal company well in advance, ideally 4-6 weeks before your move. You should get quotes from at least three firms and check reviews on sites like Checkatrade or Trustpilot.
Ensure they’re insured and part of a trade body like the British Association of Removers (BAR). It’s also important to check what kind of service the price includes. Some companies will pack for you, others will expect you to do it yourself.
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Britons are advised to research and book a reputable removal company well in advance
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Have a Plan B
Things might not go to plan, particularly if you are in a chain, so have a back up in case you are left waiting to be able to move into your new house once you have vacated your old property.
Find out about storage facilities, hotels and other services in the area you are moving to or make plans with friends and family just in case the worst happens.
You should have insurance when you are moving, so get a reliable product which will cover you in case something happens to ensure you are safe and not left out of pocket.
Jonathan Rolande is the founder of House Buy Fast. For more information visit www.jonathanrolande.co.uk