I moved from a 662 square foot condo to a 606 square foot condo, and I must say those 56 square feet make a difference! Some would argue I only “lost” a 7 foot x 8 foot space – but it’s what you can fit in that space that defies all calculations! ]
Here are some of the lessons I learned along the way:
It is possible to buy a condo, sell a condo and move within two weeks. Possible, YES!
Practical – not so much! When you’re moving, you will need help and lots of it. You will be thankful for those who help with packing and moving; celebrate endings and toast new beginnings!
Taking just the right amount of stuff is always a challenge! Working with a floor plan is always a good idea. But, when you find out balcony doors are locked until glass panels are installed, you simply go to “Plan B”. Figure out how much space the balcony furniture will take up when it must co-exist with the stuff that actually belongs there and hope the panels are installed soon.
You never know what is in your storage locker until it’s time to move it! I love Christmas, but when my decorations take up the entire new storage locker (downsized), even I know I have too much stuff. Add to that a raclette maker (a bargain, but never used), a shredder (with shredded paper from my last move), two boxes of baking supplies, seven carry-on bags...it really is too much stuff.
A smaller condo with a view trumps a larger condo without a view! I love the city view in my new home, and I can even live with the balcony furniture inside for a little bit longer – a week or two, just not through the entire summer!
Your Realtor and Lawyer become your best friends. My Realtor and I go way back – but I’m still nervous when we head out for a “walk and talk”. The last two times we walked and talked; I bought condos! We’re going to start “walking and not talking” for a while and see how that works! My Lawyer is amazing and reviews everything with a fine-tooth comb to make sure I’m OK. Couldn’t ask for better support!
It’s exhausting work and you’re glad when it’s over! I had another chance to learn what our clients experience when they move. I know what works (taking short breaks during the day) and what doesn’t (perfection on Move Day). Moving is a work-in-progress and getting every- thing moved is important...getting it in just the right spot could take a bit of time.
Looking at moving to a senior living facility or a new home? We can help. Find your local diva and get started today.
Here’s to moving experiences...every one of them!
