Summer is the perfect time for trips to the pool, backyard barbeques… and moving?
Yup. The sweltering summer months, from May through September, are the most popular time for moving according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
“There are real benefits to making a big move in the summer, especially for families,” says Kate Shulaw, a top agent with Real Living CCR Realtors in Lima, Ohio. “Since school’s out, parents don’t have to worry about kids changing districts in the middle of a term. It makes the whole transition smoother.”
Are you thinking of moving this season? Here are 4 things to keep in mind to manage the process brilliantly:
1. The early bird gets the house
One of the biggest drawbacks to moving this summer is a strong market. Inventory of homes for sales is low. “We’re actually in a seller’s market,” explains Shulaw.“We’ve had more walk-in traffic in the last month than we’ve seen in some time.”
The key then to finding a great home in the summer is speed. Families looking to relocate before August should start looking in earnest immediately, especially since it typically takes 30-45 days to close on a home in the Lima area.
2. Reserve movers ASAP
With so many people moving at the same time, moving company dockets get filled – fast. If you know you’ll need professional help packing or just physically getting all of your belongings from point A to point B, don’t wait to book it.
Also, be strategic when planning your moving dates. Try to avoid the two most popular moving days of the year: Memorial Day and the last weekend of July.
3. Take advantage of the yard sale season
De-cluttering your space before moving can save you time and money in the long run. Luckily, sunny skies and warm days provide the perfect backdrop for an old-fashioned garage sale. The first and the 15th are the best days to schedule a yard sale since those are paydays for most shoppers.
4. Keep your cool on moving day
While you may be delighted to not have to deal with snow and ice on moving day, the heat poses its own set of problems.
Be careful to not pack items vulnerable to the heat like candles or electronics in the moving van. And don’t wrap leather furniture in plastic – it tends to sweat in the heat. Instead use protective padding so it can “breathe.”
Also, ensure everyone stays safe and cool throughout the day. Keeps kids and pets in air-conditioned environments safely out of the way of movers. And be sure to have plenty of cool water on hand to keep everyone hydrated while lugging boxes.
Make your summer move a breeze with a local real estate brokerage like Real Living CCR Realtors. The agents at Real Living CCR Realtors have the experience, skills and local knowledge to help you find your dream Lima home.
To start your search today or for more information visit www.realliving.com/ccr-realtors or call 419-222-0555.
