8 Tips for Saving Money Before Your Move
TIP 1: GET BACK UTILITY DEPOSITS
If your gas, electric or water utility hasn’t returned the deposit you made for your current address, ask for the money now. If you’ve paid your bills on time, request a good customer letter. It might save you a utility deposit in your new town.
TIP 2: USE COUPONS
Coupons can save you money on all kinds of purchases… dining and groceries, services for home and auto, even home furnishings. We are living in a digital world now so most coupons can be found online. The best apps to use to find deals and coupons in the area are:
- RetailMeNot.com
- Walmart savings catcher
- Coupons.com
- Ibotta.com
Walmart savings catcher and Ibotta also help you earn money back on items you purchase.
TIP 3: DOWNSIZE
It’s smart to sell or give away things you’re sure you won’t need. However, don’t be too hasty to get rid of furniture when you downsize. Replacing it may cost a lot more than you think.
Keep any furniture you might use. You can always sell or give it away after you’ve settled in.
TIP 4: GET RECORDS TOGETHER
Round up the records that you will need to take with you—medical, dental, school and veterinary files. Ask your child’s counselors and coaches for letters that document what your child has accomplished in karate, dance classes, swimming, etc. These letters can help your child fit into favorite activities in your new community.
TIP 5: HAVE A MOVING SALE
Turn unwanted items into cash with a moving sale. See How To Hold a Moving Sale for tips, including advice on writing an ad and questions to ask before you place a classified ad in the local paper.
You can also use the Internet to sell your items. Craigslist connects you to free online classifieds all over the world. Online auction sites, such as eBay.com, let you sell to the highest bidder. There are even businesses that will manage an online auction for you.
TIP 6: KEEP DONATION RECEIPTS
When you donate items to charity, ask for receipts. You can use these to claim tax deductions and save money on your federal income tax.
TIP 7: CONSIGN FURNISHINGS
Selling your furnishings on consignment may bring more money than you would make from a moving sale. Visit one or more consignment shops to find one that is a good fit. Ask:
- Do people shop there for the kind of furnishings you have?
- Is the pricing attractive, yet high enough to make a nice profit for you?
Consign only items that are in good condition. Usually, you specify an amount you will take and the shop adds a markup. If the item remains unsold after a period of time, the store may reduce the price.
TIP 8: HAVE ITEMS APPRAISED
Before you sell or give away that unusual item, do you know how much it is worth? If you are in doubt, have it appraised. Many jewelry stores offer free appraisals. For antiques, rugs and other furnishings, search online for appraisers. You might be the lucky one who finds something buried in the attic worth big bucks!
This is especially true of inherited items, such as furnishings or odds and ends. Don’t be too hasty to get rid of old tins, books, odd pieces of china, etc. They could be worth some money.
