How Do I Relieve Anxiety When Moving Houses?

Relocating to a new home, whether it’s down the street or across the country, has inherent stressors built into the process: packing, unpacking, organizing, signing out of and into new contracts for utilities and other service providers, acclimating to different surroundings, etc. We tapped moving gurus in locations far and wide to share with us their secrets for handling the stress and here’s what they had to say:
Pete Evering

Pete Evering

Business Development Manager at .

Proper Planning and Execution

Proper planning and execution are essential to a stress-free move. Do an inventory and rank your home items according to importance. This will help you determine which items need to be moved first, which have to wait until the last minute, and which can be tucked away into storage for a while.

One of the best practices I have seen people do during house moves is to pack a box containing essential items that you absolutely need to have while waiting for the rest of your things to arrive. This box of non-negotiables should go first. By doing so, you will always have your essentials whether you’re still in your old home or you’re already starting to relocate, making the transition as smooth as possible.

Break the Process into Manageable Steps, Ask Family or Friends for Help

Moving houses can indeed be a stressful experience, but there are several strategies to alleviate anxiety throughout the process. Firstly, creating a well-organized plan can significantly reduce stress. Start by making a checklist of tasks, setting timelines, and breaking the process into manageable steps. This will provide a clear roadmap and a sense of control.

Additionally, staying informed about the housing market in your area, whether you’re in California, Texas, or New York, will help you feel more confident about your decision. Knowing the market conditions and trends can ease concerns about the value of your current home and the investment in your new one.

Consider seeking professional help from experienced real estate agents, who can guide you through the buying and selling process, offering expert advice and support.

Lastly, take time for self-care. Prioritize your physical and mental well-being by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, practicing relaxation techniques, and leaning on your support network. Moving can be emotionally taxing, so don’t hesitate to reach out to friends and family for assistance and emotional support. By combining these strategies, you can minimize anxiety and ensure a smoother transition to your new home.

Dan Bailey

Dan Bailey

President of .

Have a Schedule and Plan

Having a schedule and a plan is the best way I have found to relieve moving anxiety. I think part of what causes this anxiety for myself and many other people is the perceived chaos and uncertainty of it. Keeping myself to a schedule (what rooms to pack when, what to take care of in each of the days leading up to the move, etc.) really helps me perceive things as more organized and contained.

Clear All Your Doubts with Your Providers

Moving houses can indeed trigger anxiety, given the intricate details involved. It is encouraged to be well-prepared and organized. Start with a checklist of tasks to be completed before the move, like decluttering, packing in stages, and marking each box clearly.

Effective communication is key! Clear all doubts with your service providers. Discuss timelines, costs, and details with relocation experts. This often alleviates stress.

Consider the move as an exciting new chapter, rather than a stressful event. Exploring the neighborhood virtually or in-person in advance can help you look forward to settling in.

Julie Anderson

Chief Strategy Officer at .

Mark Snow

Senior VP and GM of consumer and B2B marketing at .

Focus on Decluttering and Don’t Break Your Daily Routine

To relieve anxiety when moving houses, focus on decluttering. Have you ever noticed that decluttering has therapeutic effects? It helps sweep away the feelings of distress and anxiety and refreshes the soul. The associated feelings with the things you wish to declutter are not only a great source to relieve stress and anxiety but you also have less to pack and unpack. In addition, while decluttering, we highly recommend donating unnecessary things as it will calm your nerves and you will have more positive vibes that will help you deal with the anxiety when moving houses.

Takeaway: Don’t break your daily routines when moving. We have often noticed people ignore their breakfast or lunch, they don’t go for a routine walk, for example, and take the house moving scene heavy on their nerves. They must understand that breaking their daily routines will only add to their anxiety. The best is to keep it as normal as possible.

This is a crowdsourced article. Contributors’ statements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of this website, other people, businesses, or other contributors.