From millennials to baby boomers, more and more people are choosing condominium living in urban areas versus a house in the suburbs. And what was once a sort of ‘temporary’ lifestyle, has become more of an ongoing way of life as many people choose to live independently for longer.
In any case, it means condo-to-condo moves are way more common today versus just a few years ago. But just because you probably have less stuff than if you were in a house, and you’re not downsizing or upsizing, it doesn’t mean that moving your condo is any less disruptive.
So, just like any move, it pays to have a plan to help make your condo move go smoothly.
1. Start Immediately, If Not Sooner
There’s a lot to do. The sooner you start the more time you’ll have later to get it all done.
2. Reserve Your Movers
Whether it’s a ‘pizza and beer’ crew of your friends, or you’re going with professionals, reserve them asap.
3. Reserve the Elevator (Twice)
This is one that seems to fall through the cracks more often than others. Make sure you have the elevator booked in the building you’re leaving and the one you’re moving into.
4. Recycle as Much as You Can
If you can live without it, why move it? If it has any value you can sell it online, give it to a friend or donate to charity.
5. Start Packing
If there’s one thing that condo movers underestimate, it’s how much they have to pack. Many people forget about all the stuff they’ve been shoving into the storage locker, or piling up in the washer/dryer closet.
6. Remember to Change Your Address
If this isn’t your first rodeo, this is a quick and easy job.
7. Transfer Utilities and Connections
You’ll need to make sure utilities are transferred to you from the previous owner and that your land line, cable and internet are ready to go in you new condo.
It’s almost impossible to list everything someone will need to do for their move. If you have pets, you’ll need to accommodate them. So, a bonus tip is to be prepared for anything, including the elevator breaking down, or your best bud damaging your TV. But the more you do to prepare, the quicker and easier your condo move will be.