Overlooked Expenses That Could Hurt Your Moving Budget

If you are planning a move, you may have already built your budget and calculated the costs. While you have probably included the most obvious expenses, a few overlooked costs could potentially hurt your moving budget. Knowing and considering these expenses in advance will help keep you on track financially. This blog will discuss a few overlooked costs you will want to include in your moving budget.

Building Fees

If you are moving into an apartment or condo, you should make sure you ask about any building-related moving fees. Some higher-end properties may charge fees associated with onsite managers or security services. Some of these services may include opening up the location, supervising the movers, arranging parking for your moving truck, or setting up the service elevators. 

These fees will vary based on your location, and they are separate from your homeowner's fees or property deposits since they require their own line item. You can call in with any questions to ensure you are not required to pay more than you have to for your move.

Professional House Cleaning

A professional deep clean is necessary when entering a new space or coming out of an old space. No matter how clean your new home appears, ensuring it is germ-free will help protect you and your family.

Previous owners or tenants may have left behind dirt and germs in unseen places, and you should not negate the viruses generated by open houses. Cleaning your home before you move in will be much easier than cleaning around your furniture and belongings once you move in.

Deep cleaning the home you are leaving prepares it for the incoming tenants or buyers. If you are placing your home on the market, a deep clean can also ensure you sell your home at the best price. If you were renting, a deep clean will help you get the full return of your deposit. 

The average cost for a professional deep clean varies based on your home's size, location, and required services. For example, the national average for a move-out cleaning ranges from $110 to $650, with the average national cost being $360.

Meals and Lodging

People often overlook the cost of meals or temporary lodging during their moves. These costs can quickly add up, especially if you have to eat out three meals a day for several days. Your actual expenses will vary based on the number of people you feed and the restaurants you choose. 

Babysitting and Pet Boarding

Moving is hard work, no matter if you are moving across town or to another part of the country. However, moving with children and animals can make your move more stressful. Therefore, you may want to factor babysitting or pet boarding services into your moving budget so that you can focus on your move.

The average cost of babysitting services in Florida is about $18.48 per hour, although your exact price will vary based on who you hire, the number of children you have, and the number of hours you need. You should research various babysitting services to find a price that works best for your budget.

The average cost of boarding your dog ranges from $25 to $85 per night. This cost will also vary based on the facility and services you request.

At Helping Hands Movers, we can help you stay within your moving budget. We are a family-owned professional moving company servicing Jacksonville, FL; Middleburg, FL; and the surrounding areas. We will offer you a competitive quote and an applicable senior and veteran discount. Give us a call today to book your moving services.