Whether it’s a family emergency, a new career opportunity, or simply to be closer to family amidst the ongoing COVID pandemic, moving back home is no easy feat. This becomes especially true the farther the distance of the move and the more stuff you have to haul around. That being said, moving isn’t a nascent activity. Throughout the decades of people moving around, the process has become increasingly efficient, thanks to tools and services available. Combine these resources with thorough planning and preparation and you’ll be back home in no time. Here is a complete guide to effortlessly moving back home.
Consider All Pros and Cons
For those who are still not 100% sure if they should move back home, you need to consider all the pros and cons of your decision as it’s not something you can undo with a click of the mouse button. Some of the benefits to consider include:
- Lower rent or free housing if you’re moving back with parents.
- Reestablishing and strengthening relationships with parents and siblings.
- More space if you are moving from a metropolitan area to a rural province.
The potential downside to moving includes:
- Emotional transition can be difficult and complex especially if you don’t have a solid relationship with parents or silbings.
- You may experience loss of motivation and drive to excel professionally when your parents are providing for your needs.
- Less personal space to work with if you move back home with family.
Be Clear With Your Plans
If you are moving back home and living with your family, let them know your intentions and plans. At the very least, you should give them a timeline as to how long you plan on staying with them. If you are exploring new career options and intends to work from home, you’ll want to inform your family members of it as well, especially if it involves frequent business calls or bringing in bulky equipment and gear.
Establish Rules and Boundaries
If you’ve already moved out of your family home before, then it means you are an adult who should respect and have rules and boundaries for shared spaces. Although your parents will likely welcome you with open arms, it’s important to respect their space and their authority around the house. Common and sensible house rules may include:
- Can you invite over a significant other or friend?
- Is there a curfew for watching TV or staying out late?
- How are chores divided around the house?
Start Making Moving Arrangements
Once rules and boundaries are laid out, it’s time to assess the magnitude of your move. Get rid of items that are too bulky and have little material or sentimental value to you. This includes old furniture, electronics, kitchen appliances, and clothing that’s not appropriate for whatever season you’re moving to. For instance, if you’re moving to Florida, you probably don’t need to bring the winter clothes that you have in your closet. Purge as many of your items as you can to minimize moving costs and to avoid the problem of having to fit it all in your family’s home.
Decide on Whether You Want to Use a Mover or Not
A professional moving company costs money, but they can also shoulder most of the labor required to move homes. If you are moving from a large place, such as a two-bedroom apartment or a townhouse, it may be more practical to hire licensed professionals to help you pack and move. If you’re moving on a shoestring budget, you can also do the packing yourself and use a courier service, such as FedEx or UPS, to transport your items.
Final Thoughts
Moving back home can be the fresh start you need to reorganize your thoughts, reconsider your professional aspirations, or simply to reconnect with your roots. Use the tips aforementioned in this article to make the move as effortless and cost-effective as possible.
