What to Consider When Moving
Whether you’re relocating for work or other circumstances are influencing your move, making the change during a global pandemic may be a little nerve-wracking. Let’s be honest – moving during normal circumstances is often stressful, but adding a layer of precautions on top of everything else can challenge even the most organized people. We’ve put together a list of things to consider when moving; take a look!
Is it a necessity?
Do you absolutely need to move right now? One of the significant considerations in embarking upon a move is whether or not someone in your household is part of a high-risk population. If you or a family member has a health condition that necessitates maintaining quarantine, now is not the best time for a move. However, many people don’t have the luxury of choice, especially if their relocation is necessitated by a job or family emergency.
Research requirements
Make research a part of your moving process. What are your state’s current regulations regarding real estate transactions? Are moving companies operating, and what guidelines are they required to follow? If you’re working with a real estate agent, or a home buying professional, they can guide you in this process – some may even have lists of preferred moving companies that are operational during this time and follow strict safety protocols. For example, licensed realtors in Houston, like those working at Flash Realty Solutions, will be familiar with any city-specific mandates regarding real estate transactions and moving services.
If you’re moving to a new state, make sure you are on the right side of the law. Many states still have travel restrictions in place – know before you go. The CDC travel planner makes it easier to get up-to-date information along your travel route.
Prepare for speed bumps
One of the most important things to consider when moving during coronavirus is that you may not meet your goal timeline. Expect the unexpected. Prepare yourself by expecting delays – remember, these are not regular times, and city and state restrictions shift from day-to-day.
Aside from a total shutdown, the real estate industry can still conduct transactions without person-to-person contact, making the home buying and selling process safe for everyone involved. Home appraisers and inspectors have also modified how they conduct their reviews to limit exposure; one of the significant changes here is that homebuyers are asked not to attend home inspections in-person. Instead, realtors and inspectors work together to review findings and field questions with video conferencing and virtual walkthroughs. However, that only applies if you find a home to purchase.
According to HomeLight’s fourth-quarter agent insight survey, home inventory remains low, keeping the market firmly in favor of sellers. Agents predict they’ll see a slight shift over this year as the vaccine reaches widespread distribution and timid would-be sellers feel comfortable enough to list. If you can wait to buy, you may have more houses to choose from – at better prices – than in the current, highly competitive market.
Take precautions
If you’re hiring a moving company, you may be nervous about exposure to other people. If you’re physically able and have the time, it’s highly recommended that you pack yourself. And, if possible, consider renting a pod and loading it yourself. In the past, you likely would have enlisted the help of family and friends, but it’s not a safe idea at the moment.
In addition to limited contact in moving, pods are also self-contained storage units. If your move is delayed for any number of reasons, you’re able to have the pod with your belongings stored by the company (or on a friend’s property) until your new home is secured. Compared to moving trucks, pods are a reliable option for moving during the uncertainty of a pandemic.
Moving during coronavirus isn’t entirely off the table, but you do have extra considerations when you’re in the planning process. As long as you prepare for hurdles along the way and have your safety plan securely in place, you’ll be ready to move safely and smoothly – or, as smoothly as possible, given the times.
