Moving house is never cheap, and homeowners are understandably looking to spend as little as possible during the process. A pal recently used a removals company in Newcastle and their guys were nice enough to suggest these money saving tips to help you ensure that the move is as low cost as possible:
Move on a Weekday
Unsurprisingly most people want to move at the weekend when they’re off work, but if you can possibly arrange to move during the week you’ll likely be able to save yourself some cash. Removals companies generally charge less on weekdays, precisely because business is slower for them then. So, you can get a great deal and generally get more time for your move because the removal men are less likely to be rushing off to another job.
Be Realistic
We’ve all got things knocking about that we never use but have never quite got round to getting rid of. Now’s the time to be really honest with yourself: if you’ve had things stuck in the loft or at the back of cupboards for over a year do you really need them anymore? Not only will getting rid of clutter reduce the volume of stuff you have to pay to move, if you can sell some of it on eBay or at car boot sales you might even get some money back.
Eat Everything
Most of us have freezers and cupboards full of food we haven’t gotten round to eating yet. Well now’s the time. Not only will this means less stuff to move, it should also save you a fair bit on your food shopping in the weeks leading up to your move, making this a double saving.
Renegotiate Deals
When you move house it’s the ideal time to renegotiate with the people providing your TV, internet, etc. You’ll have to call them up anyway to inform them that you’re moving house and if this results in your being put through to their disconnection team, these are usually the people empowered to offer you the best deals in order to retain your custom. Look around to see what deals other companies are offering, then see what you can get out of your current provider in exchange for staying with them. My friend moved in the North East of England and there were a range of providers competing in her area of Newcastle, and that meant potential for a good deal.
Estate Agents Fees
If you haven’t put your house on the market, remember – estate agents fee are not set in stone. Make sure you get valuations from several different agents, then be prepared to negotiate with them. Just because they say they charge a standard rate of 3% doesn’t mean they might not be willing to reduce it in order to get your business. Also make sure they’re charging you a percentage of the sale price, not their initial valuation price. This will incentivise them to get you a good deal and also make sure you’re not paying over the odds if you end up having to drop your price.
Saving money on your move is all about having the right attitude. At the end of the day, it’s you who’s footing the bill, so make sure you’re not spending money unnecessarily and that you’re getting the best deal you can.
