How to Move on a Budget

Picking up your life and relocating it can be extremely stressful, especially if you are on a budget. Each move symbolizes a new start, a new adventure, but getting to that be-all and end-all finish line requires a certain behind the scenes knowledge of what moving requires. And the process of making your next move budget friendly doesn’t have to be as daunting as you think. All it takes is a little elbow grease and strategizing, and you’ll be ready to hit the road.

In this article, we’ll help you navigate the ins and outs of establishing and sticking to a budget for your move so you can get the best part of the relocation—the adventure.

Toss What You Don’t Need

Before you move and start the packing process, take inventory of what you have in your current living situation. Over time, you’re sure to have collected an assortment of oddities—some of which may not be of use to you in your new place. Dedicating a weekend to sorting through those belongings will not only help you cut down on clutter but also reduce box count, making it easier and cheaper to move boxes around. Go through one or two rooms a day and create a pile for donations, keep, and toss. By the end, you should have reduced a significant number of belongings for a lighter and cheaper move.

Don’t Spend Money on Boxes

As you prepare for the big moving day, there’s one expense that may not be as necessary as you think. What is it? Boxes! Paying for oodles of boxes can quickly add up, skyrocketing the price of your move. What you may not realize, however, is that boxes can be found EVERYWHERE and free for the taking so long as you ask the right people. Here are some goldmine locations for boxes:

• Office buildings
• Your workplace
• Social media friends/followers
• Neighbors who recently moved in
• Friends and family
• Garage sales
• Spring-cleaning times

Relocate Outside of Prime Moving Season

Did you know that there’s a moving season? Well, there is and the last thing you want to do on a budget is relocating during one of these prime times—summer in particular. If your schedule is flexible, consider moving in the off-season to save money during your relocation. This will require more planning and time, but your budget will thank you! While you’re at it, try recruiting family and friends to help you coordinate your move instead of hiring professionals. Following this tip alone will benefit your budget tenfold.

Chesmar Homes

Still looking for a new home in one of Texas’s thriving cities? Turn to Chesmar Homes. We are a one-stop shop for your home buying needs, streamlining the process and helping you stick your budget. Contact us today to learn more about our model homes and master planned communities in Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, or Austin.