Moving is stressful in its own right, but when you add holidays to the mix, your anxiety can skyrocket. Unfortunately, sometimes you have no choice. While we may not be able to resolve all of your moving issues, our real estate agents have a few tips to make the process a little easier.

• Create an Organized Plan
  The key to minimizing stress is to eliminate surprises. Research and plan carefully to prepare yourself for all contingencies, but remember to be flexible. In an undertaking as complex as a move, some things probably won't go as planned. Don't let that derail your efforts. Determine when you can book movers, trucks, and storage facilities, if necessary. Make reservations as far in advance as possible. Ask about discounts as well as deposits. Prepare for inclement weather by making sure appropriate clothing is readily accessible. Check off tasks as you go so you don't overlook crucial actions.
  
  
• Plan the Move for Mid-Week.
  The busiest shopping day of the year falls on the weekend before Christmas. That means that traffic conditions are extreme. If you are planning to hire movers to assist you, you may face holiday overtime rates. With Christmas falling on the weekend, you can count on the entire week before being exceptionally busy. If possible, plan your move at least one week earlier.
  
  
• Consider a Move Between Holidays
  Moving after Christmas but before New Year's Day will minimize the hectic time in traffic, allow you to celebrate before you tackle the move itself, and save time and money. If you can schedule a move immediately after Christmas, you'll have several days to move into your new home and have it ready to enjoy the coming year. 
  
  
• Pack Decorations and Gifts Last
  While the rest of the house dissolves into stacks of boxes and bare walls, you can have a safe haven that still feels like home and allows you to enjoy a holiday atmosphere. If you're arriving at your new home before Christmas, clearly label the related boxes so they can be quickly identified and ready to access. Consider minimal decor to shorten set-up time, but include any items that are particularly meaningful to your family. If you are closing on one of our gorgeous Franconia and Holderness homes for sale, you may want to take the time to set out your decorations before you make the rest of the move. That way, when you are exhausted from the move, you can relax and enjoy your beautiful new space, complete with the tree!
  
  
• Create Two Budgets
  Monitoring your financial expenditures is important, but so is your time management. Saving a few dollars is not worth midnight madness when you have stretched yourself too thin. As you budget your cash, be reasonable with how much time you allow yourself to manage the move and enjoy your life. Plan to take time out when appropriate, and you don't take on other projects. It may be the year someone else serves you dinner instead of you taking on all the hosting responsibilities. Your time is valuable. Budget it as judiciously as you would your money. 

If you're relocating and haven't yet found the perfect house, contact us. Our real estate professionals will be happy to help you find it and will probably have plenty of other tips to make the move as smooth as possible.