Budgeting For Your Move After Buying a Home

Let’s face it: other than being a logistical nightmare, moving is also a financial headache–but it's something we can’t dodge. But hey, sometimes life throws a curveball, and you've just got to pack up and go. The silver lining? There are plenty of savvy ways to cut down on those moving costs.

Setting Your Moving Budget: Where to Start?

Before you start bubble-wrapping your life away, it's wise to figure out what you're likely to spend. Consider the miles ahead, the amount of gear you're hauling, and the timing of your move. You know, moving companies in Minnesota love to hike their prices in the summer—everyone’s looking to move when the weather’s nice. Setting a budget might not lead to buried gold, but it'll definitely help steer your moving journey.

Things to Keep in Mind When Budgeting for Your Move:

Hiring the Professional Movers

It might seem like a splurge, but getting a professional moving team on board is a smart play. These folks are the pros at navigating the byways and highways, from the bustling streets of downtown Minneapolis to the quieter lanes in Edina. More than just muscle, they bring peace of mind by keeping your possessions secure—so you won’t be shelling out extra dough to replace a shattered mirror or a busted chair.

Hiring movers means you’re not nickel-and-dimed for every little thing like truck rentals, gas, or equipment—it's all wrapped up in one neat package. Depending on how far and how much you’re moving, you might see quotes ranging from $800 for local Minneapolis moves to up to $5,000 for a long haul across state lines.

Remember, though, the sticker price on that quote isn't set in stone. The final tab can vary based on:

• The complexity of your move 
• Time spent on the job
• Mileage 
• Additional services 
• Overall volume of your stuff

To sidestep any budget busters, be upfront and thorough when you chat with the movers. Consider setting up a pre-move walk-through—this way, they can give you a more accurate estimate, ideally with no surprises. Plus, understanding how these quotes are calculated can save you the headache of unexpected fees, keeping your bank account—and your blood pressure—in check.

Having Packing Essentials

So, you've decided to make a move. You’ll need to handle some items personally, despite having a professional crew on board. Here’s a quick checklist of what you might want to pack yourself:

• Clothes (because nobody knows your wardrobe like you do)
• Toiletries (nobody wants a toothbrush mystery)
• Electronics and cables (avoid the dreaded tangle later)
• Important documents (keep those close)
• Small indispensable items (like that watch you never take off)
• Fragile items (handle with care)
• Valuables (better safe than sorry)

For these treasures, you'll need enough packing gear to keep everything organized:

• Wardrobe boxes: $10 to $20 each
• Bubble wrap: $20 to $40 per roll
• Packing paper: $30 to $60 per bundle
• Plastic wrap: $20 to $50 per roll
• Markers for labeling: $5 to $10 per pack

Label each box as clearly as a street sign on Nicollet Mall. This will make unpacking a breeze once you’ve landed in your new place. You can grab these supplies from a store or see if EZ Breezy Movers can roll the cost into their services.

Don’t Forget Moving Insurance

It’s easy to overlook moving insurance amid the chaos of cardboard and packing tape, but it’s a real lifesaver. Accidents happen—yes, even to the most cautious among us. Picture this: It's moving day, and despite the best efforts, something slips. Without insurance, that’s a hit straight to your pocketbook.

Most moving companies, like EZ Breezy Movers, offer some basic coverage. But if you truly cherish your belongings (like that irreplaceable photo album or high-end electronics), think about beefing up your policy. Coverage options usually range from a simple $0.60 per pound (might cover your coffee maker but not your espresso machine) to full replacement value, which could be about 1-2% of your declared item's value. It's a small price for peace of mind!

Factoring in Storage Costs

Sometimes, you just can't squeeze everything into the new place right off the bat—maybe you’re trimming down your belongings or just waiting out a gap between leases. When that happens, storage units become your best friend. The cost for these temporary homes for your stuff can range from a wallet-friendly $50 to about $300 a month, depending on how much space you need and where you're storing.

Quick advice? Do a bit of homework before you pick a spot. Compare a few places, maybe even check out some local options around Minneapolis or St. Paul to find a deal that won't make your wallet weep. 

And if you’re looking for a hassle-free option, remember that EZ Breezy Movers offers both short-term and long-term storage solutions, tailored to keep your items safe until you’re ready to move them into your new space.

Preparing For Utility Costs

Ah, utilities—the silent budget buster. When you move, you'll need to hook up everything from lights to water, which can run anywhere from $20 to $200 just to get started. Many utility companies throw a bone to new customers with welcome discounts, so don’t forget to ask about those specials when you’re setting up services.

Once you're connected, the monthly bills will start rolling in. Depending on your new pad’s size and how vigorously you use those amenities, you could be looking at around $150 to $300 a month. Keeping an eye on these costs is key to avoiding the surprise of a hefty bill—because surprises are great at parties but not on your utility statements. 

Setting Up an Emergency Fund

Lastly, let’s talk about the emergency fund. It’s like the spare tire of moving—most times you won’t need it, but when you do, you’ll be glad it’s there. Depending on your move and how life likes to throw curveballs, stashing away about 20% of your moving budget for "just in case" scenarios is a smart play. This isn't just about being cautious; it’s about ensuring a smooth ride to your new home, without any financial potholes that could throw you off course.

Time to Plan Your Move!

Alright, you’re armed with the know-how on all the costs involved in moving—now it’s time to put that plan into action. By mapping out your budget, you sidestep those pesky overspending traps and keep your finances balanced.

Moving doesn’t have to be a wallet-draining, hair-pulling experience. With a clear budget and a good understanding of potential expenses, you can glide through this process smoothly and economically. Don't let the details bog you down; like a good Minnesotan winter, be prepared, and you’ll find the whole ordeal can be surprisingly manageable. 

And remember, if you need a hand with the heavy lifting or finding the right storage solutions, EZ Breezy Movers is just a click or call away. Why not fill out our form today and start your moving journey on the right foot? Let’s make your move a breeze!