Downsizing is no easy task. The prospects of moving, shipping pets, and the overall life change are enough to make most people want to crawl under the covers and stay put. Luckily, there are ways to make the process less stressful. Below are a few helpful tips for downsizing with a pet.
Do Your Homework
Research locations online and look into local ordinances and pet policies before you get too far down the road. Not only will this help you identify potential problems in advance, but it will also allow you to avoid surprises. Some locales require special licensing for dogs or cats, as well as health checks. Make sure you understand what’s expected when moving your animal to a new location.
Don’t forget to take your personal finances into account, too. Check your credit before you house hunt, and get preapproved for a mortgage loan to see how much you can borrow. You can also get an idea about how much your payments will be with a monthly mortgage calculator. It’ll make the shopping process easier and make you a more attractive buyer.
Take Your Pets Into Account
Pets become family members, and you want them to be comfortable in your new home. Fortunately, there are options for downsizing with pets, and many people find they and their pets are happy in a smaller space.
Before you make the move, take your furry friend for a vet checkup and any necessary vaccinations. If you’re driving a long distance, be sure to pack plenty of their supplies, including food, water, and their favorite treats. Also, get your pets used to the crates and carriers they may end up traveling in for comfort and safety.
Teach Your Dog Some Manners
If you’ve not taken time to properly train your dog, downsizing to a smaller space may reveal some negative behaviors you may not have noticed before. Your dog may become more mischievous than before, and you don’t want to be a bad doggy neighbor. Investing in proper dog training now will save you headaches down the road.
Prepare Your Home for Showings
If you’re planning to sell soon, it might seem like there isn’t enough time. Preparing your home before you list it can result in a faster sale and a better price. Here are some tips to get started:
- Declutter. Put some items away if you can. It might seem like a good idea to stage the home with your personal effects, but buyers want to envision themselves in their home, not yours.
- Make the house inviting. Light fireplaces, open curtains, and turn on the lights.
- Improve curb appeal. Trim the lawn, tidy up trees and flowers, or hang a new welcome sign.
- Make repairs. Address any damage and make quick fixes to avoid putting off potential buyers.
- Hire a home inspector. An inspector can point out minor issues that may be holding your home back.
- Prepare the interior. Paint walls a neutral color, and always make sure the kitchen and bathrooms are clean and operational.
- Organize closets and storage spaces. Buyers will want to see the closets. Tidy them up or empty them if possible.
Moving Services
If you need help with your move, search for reputable movers online. Before meeting with a moving company to get an estimate, you can read reviews online to evaluate any company you’re thinking of hiring. Always insist on a written estimate and never accept one over the phone. Credible movers will always need to inspect your home to give you a proper quote.
Make Way for New Adventures
Downsizing is a great way to free up space and get rid of clutter. With proper planning, you and your pet can make way for new adventures.
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