Strategies to Help Seniors Lighten the Load When Moving
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Moving into a new home is one of life’s most stressful events. In fact, a OnePoll study showed that moving is at the very top of the list for many people. Seniors can face an even bigger challenge because their move often involves downsizing. They may also face physical limitations that can make the process more difficult.
Thankfully, using a specialized moving service can help. A good company not only helps you with the actual move but can also assist with both the preparation and the transition. If you are a senior on the brink of a big move, consider these strategies from Ferguson & Ferguson to ease the pressure and lighten the load.
How To Choose the Right Moving Company
Being organized from the outset can make the moving process more predictable and less stressful. A full-service moving service can offer seniors the help they need:
- Provide an upfront consultation to ensure you know what to expect
- Assign a moving manager who oversees the entire process
- Pack and unpack all of your belongings
- Disassemble, move and reassemble furniture
To find a moving service that provides excellent customer service, read online reviews and ask neighborhood platforms for recommendations. If you’re on a budget, make a price comparison and look for special deals to reduce costs. You can also determine your moving budget by using an online calculator to estimate your total expenses.
How To Sell Your Current Home
To determine the price range for your next home, you need an estimate of your current house’s value. Luckily, an online estimator can give you a pretty good idea of a reasonable selling price.
Next, enlist the help of a real estate agent. In addition to listing your home and managing the sale, many realtors can help you prepare your home for the market by connecting you with the right professionals to help you reduce clutter, make necessary repairs, and stage your home.
What To Prioritize When Shopping for a New Home
To target your search, determine whether you want to buy a new home or simply rent. MassMutual notes that some seniors prefer renting because of the simplicity it brings:
- Less commitment in case you decide to move again
- Fewer headaches during the moving process
- Less maintenance and responsibility in the long-run
Whether you want to buy or rent, you can search Seattle property listings online to discover senior-friendly options. For optimal results, limit your search by specifying:
- Price range
- Desired number of bedrooms and bathrooms
- Must-have amenities
- Preferred location
Many online listings will even allow you to take a 3D tour of the property to get a more realistic view.
If you’re currently in or recently completed Chapter 13 bankruptcy proceedings, you may have concerns about getting a mortgage for a new home. In fact, you can apply for a mortgage 12 months after filing your Chapter 13 bankruptcy. If you need assistance with preparing for and filing a personal bankruptcy, contact the offices of Ferguson & Ferguson today!
Why Self-Care Should Play a Role
Because moving is one of life’s most stressful events, your body may react by producing extra stress hormones, adrenaline, and cortisol. In turn, you may experience adverse symptoms, such as sleep issues, increased anxiety, poor digestion, and even reduced immunity.
When experiencing stress, it can be challenging to make good decisions. Try to focus on the big-picture priorities that factor into your decision and go with your gut. It’s also helpful to pause, take a deep breath, and evaluate your options.
To counter these negative effects, you need to nurture your mental and physical well-being. Simple steps can help:
- Take time to relax and use guided meditations to unwind
- Get enough sleep every night and take naps when needed
- Eat a nutrient-rich diet and avoid processed foods
- Maintain your daily exercise regime
Moving is an exciting milestone in life, but it can also be stressful. If you are a senior considering a move, be strategic and enlist the help of a moving service for a smooth and stress-free experience.