Before you start hoarding cardboard boxes, there are some preliminary steps you need to take in the moving process.

• Decide if you’re really ready to move.
  • How urgently do you need to move? If you’re going through a major life change, like a new job, divorce or family emergency, throw that “for sale” sign in the yard. Even in the current housing market, a home that’s correctly priced and in good condition should sell quickly. If you’re not motivated to sell at market value, whatever that might be, seriously consider postponing your move.
  • Would home upgrades change the moving equation? If you can’t stand your master bathroom, consider remodeling it rather than trading it in. Updating your home now will raise your home value when you decide to sell.
  • Can you wait until the moving off-season? Movers are in demand during the summer months; rates are much less expensive between October and April. If your relocation dates are flexible, you could save some money.
• Find a community that will fit your lifestyle.You’ve decided you want to relocate, and now you need to choose a new place to live. Start with a blank slate to create your ideal place from scratch.
  • Consider what’s lacking in your current town and what’s working. Write down a list of requirements for your dream town, then start searching in the real world! Need help? Ask yourself these questions to get started.
  • If you’re a first-time buyer, read about the best places for first time buyers.
  • Once you’ve chosen a city, narrow down the neighborhood options.
• Assess your financial situation. Your mind is ready to move, but what about your pocketbook? Make sure you have the financial resources to make your relocation a reality.
  • If you’re considering moving for a job, have you negotiated an adequate relocation package? Talk to friends, relatives or colleagues who live in the area and can give you realistic and up-to-date estimates, particularly if you’ll be moving abroad.
  • If you’re currently renting and want to buy your first home, read our My First Place Homebuyer’s Guide to help you get financially ready to buy.
  • Current homeowners have a double burden: sell a home and buy a new one. Investigate how much you will net from the sale of your current home before you research how much it will cost to buy your new home. If you discover that the likely sale price of your home won’t afford you the home or lifestyle you envision, you may want to delay your relocation plans.
  • If your current home hasn’t sold and you need to move quickly, you may be able to get a — a short-term loan that can give you cash for a new home.
  • If you decide purchase a new home, assess what you have left for moving expenses. Put together a moving budget to find out what type of move you can afford. If you’re strapped for cash, then check out our 10 ways to cut moving costs posting.
• Ready to move? Break the news to your family and friends. Once you’ve decided to relocate, it’s time to let family and friends in the loop.
  • If you have children, telling them about moving can be difficult. Here are some tips to make the news go over more smoothly:
    • Tell them about the move early on — you don’t want them to hear the news from a family friend or relative.
    • Pick a private setting, and try to minimize interruptions by turning off cell phones and the television.
    • Focus on the positive aspects of moving, such as meeting new friends or experiencing a new culture
    • Let older children help with moving decisions to ease their fear and anxiety.
  • Moving is difficult for everyone — even the ones staying behind. Tell your friends and family members well in advance of your move so they have plenty of time to process the information and say goodbye.

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