On The Move - Blog

How can I tell if movers’ prices are reasonable?

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 10:19:10 GMT

Short answer: A reasonable moving price is one that matches the real job — access, floors, inventory, packing, and timing — and is explained clearly enough that you know what is included and what could change. The cheapest quote is often the least useful comparison; a mid-range number from someone who asked good questions is usually safer than a rock-bottom figure that skipped the details.

In Jerusalem, “reasonable” is less about a fixed shekel-per-room chart and more about whether the mover priced the same conditions you actually have. A fourth-floor walk-up with a long carry is not the same job as a ground-floor apartment with curb parking, even if both are “two bedrooms.”

Compare scope first, numbers second

Before you decide which quote is “high” or “low,” line them up on the same assumptions:

Same from / to addresses (or at least the same neighborhoods)
Same floors and elevator situation at both ends
Same parking / carry distance assumptions
Same inventory (rooms, large furniture, appliances, special items)
Same packing plan (you pack vs they pack)
Same dismantling / reassembly (beds, wardrobes, IKEA-style pieces)
Same date window (busy days and hard-to-access streets can change crew planning)

If Quote A assumed an elevator and Quote B assumed stairs, you are not comparing prices — you are comparing two different jobs.

What “reasonable” usually looks like in practice

They asked real questions (or asked for photos / a short video) before locking a number.
They named the pricing method — hourly, flat for a clear scope, or hybrid with stated extras.
Inclusions and exclusions are written down — labor, truck, basic protection, packing materials, manof/crane, waiting time, disposal.
Change conditions are named early — more items than listed, no elevator when one was expected, longer carry, blocked parking.
A person confirms the final figure before you treat the booking as locked.

Jerusalem factors that make a “cheap” quote look expensive later

Stairs and no elevator in older buildings
Narrow streets and limited truck parking (Nachlaot, parts of the center, Old City approaches)
Long carries when the truck cannot stop at the door
Neighborhood quirks that need planning (Old City permissions, tight courtyards, Mamilla-edge access)
Awkward items (oversized sofas, glass, appliances, pianos)

A quote that ignores those realities can look “reasonable” on paper and then grow on moving day. A quote that prices them in may look higher at first — and still be the fairer number.

Red flags when judging price

A firm low price after almost no questions
“Cheapest in Jerusalem” as the main pitch
Unwillingness to put scope and exclusions in writing
Pressure to book before access and inventory are clear
Huge gaps between quotes with no explanation of what each one assumed

A simple way to sanity-check any quote

Did we describe the same job as the other quotes I’m comparing?
Is this an estimate or a fixed price for that scope?
What three things would most likely raise the price on the day?
Who confirms the final number before the truck is committed?
Does the explanation feel calm and specific — or vague and rushed?

Bottom line

Reasonable mover pricing is clear pricing: same scope across comparisons, real Jerusalem access factored in, inclusions written down, and a human confirming the final figure before booking. Do not position “cheapest” as the goal — position “matches the real job, with fewer surprises” as the goal.

Want a clear moving estimate for Jerusalem? Message On The Move on WhatsApp: 054-736-9550.

Is there a set way that movers give quotes or prices?

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 10:15:47 GMT

Short answer: There is no single nationwide formula, but careful movers usually quote the same way: they gather the real job details first (addresses, floors, access, inventory, packing), then give a clear estimate based on time, crew, and truck — and they spell out what could change the price on moving day. Vague “ballpark” quotes with almost no questions are the ones that often surprise people later.

Moving prices in Jerusalem vary a lot because apartments, parking, and building access vary a lot. A studio with an elevator and easy curb parking is a different job from a walk-up in Nachlaot with nowhere to leave the truck. So the process matters more than a fixed price list.

What a solid quote usually needs

Before a careful mover commits to a number, they typically want:

Move date / time window (and whether it’s flexible)
From and to addresses (neighborhood matters for parking and drive time)
Floors and elevator (stairs vs elevator change crew size and time)
Access and parking (how close the truck can get; loading restrictions)
Inventory (rooms, large furniture, appliances, fragile or awkward items)
Packing (you pack vs they pack; boxes already done or not)
Dismantling / reassembly (beds, wardrobes, IKEA-style pieces)
Photos or a short video when a visit isn’t possible yet

If those details are missing, a responsible quote stays provisional — or the mover asks follow-ups instead of guessing.

Common ways Israeli movers price a job

Hourly / time-based — crew + truck billed by the hour (or by a time block), often with a minimum. Best when the volume is unclear or access is tricky.
Fixed / flat for a clear scope — one price for an agreed inventory and access plan. Best when both sides understand the full job.
Hybrid a base price plus stated extras (stairs beyond X floors, long carry, packing materials, waiting for parking, special items).

There is not one “official” method. What matters is whether the mover tells you which method they are using, and what is included.

What should be written into the quote

A clear quote is more than a number. Ask that it state:

Whats included (labor, truck, basic protection, dismantling if agreed)
What’s not included (packing materials, crane/manof, storage, disposal, parking fees if any)
What can change the price on the day (more items than listed, no elevator when one was expected, longer carry, waiting for access)
Whether the figure is an estimate or a fixed commitment for that scope
Any deposit / booking conditions (only if the company actually uses them — ask; don’t assume)

Clear pricing means fewer arguments later. Calm process means surprises get named before the truck arrives.

Jerusalem-specific factors that move the number

Stairs and no elevator in older buildings
Narrow streets and limited truck parking (Nachlaot, parts of the center, Old City approaches)
Long carries from apartment to truck when the vehicle cannot stop at the door
Special neighborhoods (Old City, Mamilla edges, tight courtyards) that need planning, not improvisation
Large or awkward items (pianos, oversized sofas, glass, appliances) that need extra hands or protection

Two apartments with the “same number of rooms” can be very different jobs once parking and stairs are real.

Red flags vs healthy quoting

Worth pausing on: a firm price after almost no questions; “Cheapest in Jerusalem as the main pitch; unwillingness to put inclusions/exclusions in writing; pressure to book before access and inventory are clear.

Healthy signs: lots of practical questions (floors, parking, photos); honest “it depends” when details are incomplete; a walkthrough or video review for bigger or trickier moves; a human confirming the final figure before you treat it as locked.

On The Move’s approach is built around clear pricing and a calm process: gather the real details, estimate carefully, then confirm the final price with a person before booking — not guess now, argue later.

What to ask before you compare quotes

Are you quoting hourly, flat, or mixed?
What exact scope did you assume (rooms, floors, elevator, packing)?
What would make the price go up on moving day?
Can you do a short video call or visit if access looks hard?
Who confirms the final price before we book?

Bottom line

There isn’t one set formula every mover in Israel uses — but there is a set of good habits: collect the real access and inventory details, choose an hourly or flat structure that fits the job, write inclusions and change-conditions clearly, and confirm the final number before the truck is committed. In Jerusalem, parking and stairs often matter as much as “how many rooms.”

Want a clear moving estimate for Jerusalem? Message On The Move on WhatsApp: 054-736-9550.

How do I find cheap boxes in Israel / Jerusalem?

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 15:37:15 GMT

Short answer: You usually do not need brand-new cartons — but for fragile items you need strong ones. In Israel, look for שתי ג (shtei gal) double-flute cartons, and when you need extra strength, מחוקת (michuzeket) reinforced boxes. Free empties help when the cardboard is solid; if you buy, buy the strong ones. They are readily available.

Moving day goes smoother when boxes are sturdy, the right size for what is inside, and easy to stack. Thin supermarket cardboard fails under dishes, glass, and kitchen gear.

Strong boxes matter more than “free”

For fragiles, the box can be medium or even large — but it must be very strong. Weak big boxes collapse; strong ones of the same size hold.

In Israel, cartons are often described as:

שתי גל (shtei gal) two flutes / double-wave cardboard; the everyday strong moving box
מחוזקת (michuzeket) — reinforced / stronger grade when you need extra protection

If you need to buy anything, buy these strong grades. They are readily available and worth more than a stack of free flimsy boxes.

Cheap is only useful if the box survives the trip. Prefer:

Double-flute / reinforced cardboard (שתי גל or מחוזקת)
Intact bottoms and flaps (no crushed corners)
Clean and dry cardboard (no food grease or damp smell)
Boxes you can close flat and tape shut

Appropriate boxes — not just any boxes

It is very important to use appropriate boxes for what you are packing: strong enough for the weight and contents, sized so the box stays liftable and stackable. Random soft cartons from the street often fail on fragile kitchens.

If you need to buy boxes, there are a couple of stores around Jerusalem that can get strong cartons for you. Ask for שת גל or מחוזקת rather than the thinnest option on the shelf.

Free or low-cost sources people actually use

1. Your movers (when available)
Some Jerusalem movers collect strong empty cartons and can offer a free scheduled pickup when stock is on hand. On The Move does this when boxes are available — ask, and if there is stock, they schedule a pickup of usable empties.

2. Shops that unpack deliveries
Retail and wholesale places that receive boxed goods sometimes leave empty cartons. Ask politely. Check the bottom and walls of every box — only keep ones that feel like real שתי גל strength cardboard.

3. Friends, neighbors, and building groups
People who moved recently often have a stack left over. Local community chats in Jerusalem are a common place to ask for strong moving boxes.

4. Buying when you must
When free stock is thin, or you are packing a fragile kitchen or office, buy strong cartons (שתי גל / מחוזקת) from a packaging or local supplier that can get them for you. Match sizes so the truck packs tight.

Practical packing tips that save money

Fragile and heavy items need strong boxes first; size second.
Pack dense items (books, tools) so the box stays liftable — strong does not mean overload.
Use larger strong boxes for lighter bulky stuff only if the cardboard is solid.
Tape the bottom with a proper H-seal — weak bottoms are the usual failure.
Label room + contents on two sides.

Jerusalem timing note

Do not leave box hunting for the night before the truck arrives. Free stock comes and goes. If you want mover-supplied empties, ask several days ahead. If you need to buy שתי ג / מחוזקת, do that early too so packing is not rushed.

What to ask before you rely on free (or bought) boxes

Do you currently have strong empty cartons available (not thin singles)?
Can you schedule a free pickup, and when?
About how many / what sizes?
If I need to buy, where can I get שתי ג or מחוזקת nearby?

Bottom line

Finding cheap boxes in Jerusalem is less about one secret store and more about strength and fit: reuse solid cartons, ask shops and neighbors, take a free mover pickup when stock exists — and when you buy, buy שתי ג / מחוזקת. Strong appropriate boxes beat “free but useless.”

Need free moving boxes (when available) or a clear moving plan? Message On The Move on WhatsApp: 054-736-9550 (use the wa.me link above).

How do you move in and out of Jerusalem’s Old City?

Tue, 08 Sep 2026 20:37:15 GMT

Short answer: An Old City move is mostly about access and parking, not just packing. Get a clear on-site estimate, plan which gate and vehicle can actually reach the Jewish Quarter parking area, arrange permissions ahead of time, and decide how you’ll shuttle belongings from the apartment to the truck.

Moving in or out of the Old City is one of the more challenging jobs in Jerusalem. Narrow alleys, limited vehicle access, and parking rules mean a move that looks “normal” on paper can stall if the truck cannot reach the right lot.

Why the estimate matters more here

For an Old City move, the estimate visit is not a formality. The mover needs the clearest possible information: exact address, how far it is from the parking area, stairs and alley width, and what size vehicle you expect.

Many movers do not know the Old City well. Teams that do will plan parking and permissions before moving day. Teams that don’t often default to the Jewish Quarter parking lot—and then discover too late that their truck cannot get in the way they assumed.

Jewish Quarter parking: the Jaffa Gate problem

If you approach the Jewish Quarter parking area from Jaffa Gate, there is a tunnel on that route that is too low for a full-size moving truck.

• A pickup with a trailer will often get through fine.
• A full-size moving truck is very likely to get stuck if it tries that approach.

So before moving day, confirm with your movers: What vehicle are you bringing, and which gate/route will you use?

How a full-size truck usually gets in

To bring a full-size moving truck into the Jewish section parking lot, movers typically need to:

1. Get permission from the guards near the Kotel area (commonly via Dung Gate / that access point—confirm the exact gate with whoever is arranging entry).
2. Drive up in the opposite direction of normal traffic, with that permission in place.

This is done regularly. If you plan ahead and discuss it with the client and the guards, it can go smoothly. If you leave it to the morning of the move, you risk delays or a truck that cannot enter.

Permissions and the morning of the move

Access is not only about truck height. Arrange permissions beforehand:

• For a pickup entering via Jaffa Gate, make sure the driver’s license is registered correctly in the system so the gate opens when they arrive.
There is also another gate into the Jewish section parking lot—that entry needs to be arranged too.
• Tell the guard in advance that the crew is coming.

A good Old City crew treats gate access like part of the job plan, not an afterthought.

From the apartment to the truck

Even after the vehicle is parked, belongings still have to travel between the home and the lot. Distance and alley layout decide the method:

• Most of the time, movers dolly items.
• Some use a pickup as a shuttle between deep alleyways (including areas toward the Cardo and Jewish Quarter lanes) and the main truck.
• There are also tractors you can rent for hauling—but the hourly cost is often too high for the value on a typical residential move.

The right method depends on how far the house is from the parking lot and whether you’re using a big truck or a smaller vehicle. This should be planned at estimate time, not improvised on the street.

What to ask your movers before you book

• Have you done Old City / Jewish Quarter moves before?
• Which parking area will you use?
• What size vehicle are you bringing?
• If it’s a full-size truck, how will you enter (which gate, whose permission)?
Is the driver’s access/registration arranged for the morning?
• How will you move items from the apartment to the truck (dolly, shuttle pickup, other)?
What could change the price once you’re on site (extra distance, stairs, waiting for gate access)?

Bottom line

Old City moves reward planning: clear estimate details, the right vehicle for the right gate, permissions set in advance, and a realistic plan for the last stretch through the alleys. Done carefully, it’s workable. Done casually, it’s where moves get expensive and stressful.

Need an Old City estimate? Message On The Move on WhatsApp: 054-736-9550 (WhatsApp link: https://wa.me/972547369550?text=Hi%20On%20The%20Move%20%E2%80%94%20I%20need%20an%20Old%20City%20moving%20estimate)

June 19th, 2024

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 13:46:47 GMT

הכנה למעבר: כיצד לפנות עומס ולהתכונן למעבר דירה

המעבר לדירה חדשה הוא הזדמנות נפלאה להתחיל מחדש, אך הוא גם יכול להיות תהליך מורכב ומלחיץ. אחת הדרכים הטובות ביותר להפוך את המעבר לחלק ויעיל יותר היא על ידי פינוי עומס מיותר מהבית. הנה כמה טיפים מעשיים שיסייעו לכם להתמודד עם המשימה הזו בצורה יעילה ומהנה.

התחילו מוקדם
הכנה מוקדמת היא המפתח להצלחה. התחילו את תהליך פינוי העומס כמה שבועות לפני המעבר המתוכנן. כך תוכלו לפעול בנחת, מבלי להרגיש לחוצים או מוצפים.

חלקו את העבודה לחלקים קטנים
פינוי עומס יכול להיות משימה גדולה ומפרכת. כדי להקל עליכם, חלקו את העבודה לחלקים קטנים יותר והתמקדו בכל פעם בחדר אחד או אזור אחד בבית. לדוגמה, התחילו בארון הבגדים ולאחר מכן עברו לספרייה או למטבח.

השתמשו בשיטת "שלוש הקטגוריות"
כשאתם ממיינים חפצים, השתמשו בשיטת "שלוש הקטגוריות": שמירה, תרומה/מכירה וזריקה.
- שמירה: חפצים שאתם זקוקים להם ומשתמשים בהם באופן קבוע.
- תרומה/מכירה: חפצים במצב טוב שאינכם זקוקים להם יותר, אך יכולים לשרת מישהו אחר.
- זריקה: חפצים פגומים או בלתי שמישים.

היו כנים עם עצמכם
כשאתם ממיינים את החפצים, שאלו את עצמכם שאלות כנות: האם השתמשתי בזה בשנה האחרונה? האם זה מביא לי שמחה או ערך? אם התשובה היא לא, כנראה שהגיע הזמן להיפרד ממנו.

ארגון ומיון מסמכים
מעבר דירה הוא זמן טוב לעבור על המסמכים שלכם ולמיין אותם. זרקו מסמכים שאין להם ערך ושמרו על מסמכים חשובים במקום מאורגן ובטוח.

שיתוף המשפחה בתהליך
אם אתם עוברים דירה עם המשפחה, שתפו את כולם בתהליך. כך תוכלו לחלוק את העבודה ולהבטיח שכל אחד יתרום את חלקו. בנוסף, זו יכולה להיות הזדמנות טובה לפעילות משפחתית משותפת ולחיזוק הקשרים ביניכם.

הזמנת חברת הובלות מקצועית
לאחר שפיניתם את העומס, הזמנת חברת הובלות מקצועית תהפוך את תהליך המעבר לחלק וקל יותר. חברה מקצועית תדע להתמודד עם כל שלבי ההובלה ביעילות ובבטחה.

לסיכום
פינוי עומס לפני מעבר דירה יכול להיות תהליך מאתגר, אך עם תכנון נכון וארגון מתאים, תוכלו להפוך אותו לחוויה חיובית ומועילה. מעבר דירה הוא הזדמנות להתחדש, והכנה טובה תסייע לכם להתחיל את הפרק החדש בחייכם בצורה המיטבית.

בהצלחה במעבר!

A Stress-Free Move: Your Ultimate Guide to Prepping and Decluttering

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 12:15:50 GMT

A Stress-Free Move: Your Ultimate Guide to Prepping and Decluttering**

Moving to a new home is an exciting chapter in life, but the process of getting there can be overwhelming. Between choosing a reliable moving company and packing up your entire life, it's easy to feel stressed. However, with proper planning and a focus on decluttering, you can transform this daunting task into a smooth and manageable experience. Here's your ultimate guide to preparing for a move and saying goodbye to clutter.

**1. Start Early and Create a Timeline**

Time management is critical when preparing for a move. Start planning as early as possible, ideally six to eight weeks before your moving date. Create a timeline that includes all crucial tasks:

- **Six Weeks Before**: Begin decluttering, gather moving supplies, and research moving companies.
- **Four Weeks Before**: Confirm your moving company, start packing non-essential items, and notify important parties of your address change. In Israel it will be the electric company, you phone provider, possibly the Arnona, and the gas company.
- **Two Weeks Before**: Pack essentials, clean out your pantry, and arrange utilities.
- **Moving Week**: Finish packing, clean your old home, and finalize moving day arrangements.

**2. Declutter Like a Pro**

Decluttering isn’t just about reducing the number of items you need to move; it’s also an opportunity to start fresh in your new home. Here’s how to approach it:

- **Room by Room**: Tackle one room at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Start with less trafficked areas like guest rooms or storage spaces.

- **Sort and Categorize**: Create separate piles for items you want to keep, donate, sell, or throw away. Stick to the "one-year rule" – if you haven’t used it in the past year, it’s time to let it go. So many of my clients do Aliyah and end up living here for a long time before their container arrives. Once it comes they realize they didn't need most of the container they paid so much to have delivered internationally. General rule- Does the Item give you Joy? Yes- Keep, No- throw.

- **Use the Four-Box Method**: Label four boxes as ‘keep,’ ‘donate,’ ‘sell,’ and ‘trash.’ This helps in making quick decisions and keeps you organized. In Israel it is hard to sell stuff. Give it a try or find someone else to do it for you. There are different Gemachim in Jerusalem that can pick up your stuff.

- **Take Advantage of Technology**: Use online platforms to sell items you no longer need and arrange for a charity pickup for donations.

**3. Organize and Pack Efficiently**

Once you've decluttered, it’s time to pack. Efficient packing not only protects your belongings but also makes unpacking easier.

- **Gather Supplies**: Stock up on sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, and markers.

- **Label Everything**: Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. This will be a lifesaver when you’re unpacking.

- **Pack Smart**: Pack heavier items at the bottom of the box and lighter items on top. Use towels and linens to wrap fragile items, reducing the need for additional packing materials.

- **Create an Essentials Kit**: Pack a separate box or bag with essential items you'll need immediately upon arrival. Include toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and basic kitchen supplies.

**4. Stay Calm and Seek Professional Help** Meditate!!

Moving doesn’t have to be a solo endeavor. Hiring a professional moving company can alleviate a lot of stress. Look for a reputable company that offers comprehensive services, including packing and unpacking assistance if needed.

- **Research Thoroughly**: Read reviews, check credentials, and get multiple quotes to find the best fit for your needs and budget.

- **Communicate Clearly**: Be upfront with your movers about any special requirements or items that need extra care. I can't emphasis this more!! Comunicate Comunicate Comunicate! Hebrew, English, Russian or Arabic! Make sure they know what you want.

**Final Thoughts**

Preparing for a move and decluttering may seem like monumental tasks, but with the right approach and mindset, they can be highly rewarding. By starting early, methodically decluttering, and packing efficiently, you can ease the moving process and enjoy a fresh start in your new home. So take a deep breath, make a plan, and embrace the journey ahead. Happy moving!

Do you have any specific moving questions or need personalized advice? Feel free to reach out to On The Move today – we're here to make your move as smooth as possible!

Navigating the Maze: Overcoming Common Moving Challenges

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 13:49:04 GMT

Simplify Your Life: The Transformative Power of Decluttering

Thu, 25 May 2023 14:48:48 GMT

In a world filled with material possessions and constant distractions, finding peace and clarity can be a challenge. However, by embracing the art of decluttering, you can create a physical and mental space that fosters serenity, productivity, and a greater sense of well-being. In this blog, we will explore the transformative power of decluttering and share practical tips to help you embark on a journey toward a simpler, more intentional life.

1. Understanding the Benefits of Decluttering:
Decluttering is more than just tidying up your physical space; it has numerous benefits that extend to all aspects of your life. By letting go of the excess, you can reduce stress, improve focus and productivity, enhance creativity, and even experience a boost in overall happiness and contentment.

2. Starting Small:
Embarking on a decluttering journey can feel overwhelming, but it's essential to remember that progress is made one step at a time. Begin with a small area, such as a drawer, a closet, or a single room. By starting small, you'll build momentum and gain confidence to tackle larger projects.

3. The Sorting Process:
When decluttering, it's crucial to sort your belongings into categories: keep, donate/sell, and discard. Ask yourself honest questions about each item's usefulness, sentimental value, and whether it aligns with your current lifestyle. Be mindful of your emotional attachments but also be willing to let go of things that no longer serve you.

4. Decluttering Techniques:
Adopting various decluttering techniques can make the process more efficient and enjoyable. Some popular methods include the KonMari Method, which focuses on sparking joy, and the 20/20 Rule, where you evaluate whether an item will be useful in the next 20 days or 20 minutes. Find a technique that resonates with you and aligns with your goals.

5. Organizational Systems:
Once you've decluttered, it's essential to establish effective organizational systems to maintain a clutter-free environment. Invest in storage solutions such as bins, baskets, and shelves to keep items organized and easily accessible. Implement labeling systems to ensure you can find what you need quickly.

6. Digital Decluttering:
In today's digital age, decluttering isn't limited to physical spaces. Digital clutter can be just as overwhelming and distracting. Take time to organize and declutter your digital files, emails, and social media accounts. Unsubscribe from unnecessary newsletters, delete old and unused apps, and organize your files into clearly labeled folders.

7. The Emotional Side of Decluttering:
Decluttering can stir up various emotions, especially when it comes to sentimental items. It's crucial to acknowledge and honor these emotions while maintaining focus on your goals. Consider taking photos or creating a memory box for sentimental items instead of keeping everything. Remember, memories reside within you, not in physical objects.

8. Sustainable Practices:
Decluttering provides an opportunity to embrace sustainable practices. Consider donating items to local charities or hosting a garage sale to give new life to things you no longer need. Recycle or repurpose whenever possible, reducing waste and minimizing your ecological footprint.

9. Maintenance and Continued Growth:
Decluttering is an ongoing process, and it's important to establish habits that prevent clutter from accumulating again. Regularly review your belongings, practice mindful consumption, and be intentional with future purchases. Surround yourself with items that bring you joy and add value to your life.

Conclusion:
Decluttering is a transformative journey that goes beyond creating an organized space. By decluttering, you free yourself from the burden of excess, embrace a simpler and more intentional lifestyle, and create room for what truly matters. Start small

Smooth Transitions: The Ultimate Guide to a Stress-Free Move

Mon, 22 May 2023 17:54:36 GMT

17 Mistakes to Avoid when Selling your House by Ryan Smith

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 19:20:12 GMT

17 Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Your House

Selling your house can be both exciting and stressful, especially if it’s your first time. Regardless of why you decided to sell your home, there are a number of pitfalls you can easily fall into, making your home selling experience less than ideal. Luckily, we’ve put together a list of the most common home selling mistakes people make so you can sell your home knowing you have your bases covered.
Underestimating the cost of selling your house
While you should ultimately profit from the sale of your home, many home sellers forget about the costs associated with selling a house. For starters, you should expect to use five to six percent of the total sale price of your home to cover the commissions of both the seller and buyer agents. For example, if you sell your home for $300,000 you could wind up paying upwards of $18,000 in commission.

Furthermore, this hefty cost doesn't include possible concessions homebuyers might want you to make during the negotiation phase, such as making repairs suggested by a home inspector.
Not budgeting for your move
When you consider the moving process, you have two options: hiring a moving company or borrow your buddy’s truck and doing it yourself.

By hiring a moving company, rather than doing it yourself, you’re getting someone who will pack, move, and then unpack your belongings. This means that a full-service mover can be well worth the investment when you’re preoccupied with all of the other tasks associated with selling your home. Not to mention,when you hire movers your belongings are insured so you’re covered if anything breaks.
Selling a house you owe more on than what it’s worth
If you still have a remaining balance on your mortgage, you’ll most likely use a portion of the sale proceeds of your home to pay off the existing mortgage. Make sure you don’t owe more on your mortgage than what your house is actually worth or you won’t make enough money on the sale to pay off your mortgage. The best option is almost always to wait on selling your home so that it can build more equity. This way you can sell your home and buy a new one without having two mortgages at the same time.
Pricing your home incorrectly
If you price your home too high, your home may fall into seller’s limbo, sitting on the market for what feels like an eternity. On the other hand, if you price too low then you will likely sell your home quickly but you risk missing out on a significant amount of money.

The first step to understanding how much your home is worth is utilizing an online calculator. Afterward, meet with your real estate agent to discuss a good pricing strategy for your home. They will look at other comparable properties in your neighborhood that sold recently as well as bring keen insights into what the housing market is currently doing. Together, you’ll determine a good starting price as well as a pricing strategy that will incentivise buyers if your house begins to sit on the market for too long.
Skipping a pre-listing home inspection
Selling a house is stressful enough, even when everything goes right. But if a homebuyer hires an inspector who catches an issue like mold, pests, or a cracked foundation, then your stress levels will multiply as you risk losing a potential sale entirely.

Given the affordability of home inspections, there’s not much reason to avoid them. Getting a pre-listing home inspection will put your mind at ease as you’ll either know that your home is in sound condition or you’ll be able to tackle problems before homebuyers have the chance to bring them up during the negotiation phase. If an issue does arise, you can either fix it or you can let buyers know and then make a concession during the negotiation phase by reducing the price of your home accordingly.
Not refinishing hardwood floors or cleaning your carpet
If you’re reading this at home, look down. How do your floors look? Even if they don’t look terrible, there’s a pretty good chance they’re starting to show their age. Since potential buyers are going to be inspecting every aspect of your home, you should start thinking of refinishing your hardwood floors and cleaning your carpet.

The best time to have your carpet cleaned or hardwood floors refinished is right before you stage your home. Since you’ll already be moving most (or all) of your furniture to either a new home or a storage unit, this is a great time to get your floors done and make them a selling point to potential homebuyers.
Not staging your home for a quick sale
The main point of staging your home is to allow potential homebuyers the chance to picture themselves living in your space. They get to see a home with furniture and art that’s arranged in a way that highlights key features of your home, rather than an empty house that echoes every sound. Staging your home pays off too as 21 percent of agents told the National Association of Realtors that staging a home increased its’ sale price by as much as 10 percent, making it a worthwhile investment.
Forgoing professional real estate photos
With the advent of cameras on smartphones, everyone likes to think of themselves as a photographer these days. Even though that picture you took of your dinner last week looked like it could be featured in advertisements, you’re still probably not ready to take your own real estate photos. A real estate photographer will make sure that your home looks great when you list it because not only do they have the equipment, they understand the angles that best sell a home.

If you have a large home, a stunning view you want to show off, or a large amount of land, you may also want to consider having aerial photos taken of your home. The views that drones are able to capture are impressive and can help show off your home in a way that will make sure it stands out from other houses in your area that are on the market. Even better, drone technology makes this option more affordable than ever before, allowing you to get a lot more bang for your buck.
Trying to sell a poorly lit home
You want to show your home in the best light, so take the time to really gauge the quality of your lighting by closing your curtains/blinds and looking at each room as though you’re a potential homebuyer. Make a note of any rooms that are poorly lit or just seem dark and then call an electrician so that you can have some additional lighting installed.

Even worse than a poorly lit room, however, is when the lights don’t work at all. Sometimes the light bulb is just burnt out, while other times the socket itself is in need of repair. Consider calling an electrician before you begin showing your home to make sure it’s shining its brightest. Potential buyers (and your bank account) will thank you for the investment.
Not making your home energy efficient
If you’d like to spend less on your utility bills, you aren’t alone. A study by the National Association of Realtors found that 33 percent of homebuyers see high-efficiency HVAC systems as an important factor when looking at a new home. If you have an older home, you should look into either retrofitting or replacing your HVAC unit altogether as your current system might be using a lot more energy than it needs to be. This will ensure that you have a system that is meeting your home’s needs, while also lowering your utility bill.

If you’re committed to energy-efficiency then there are a few extra things you can do. These options include making sure your home is properly insulated, ensuring that you don’t have any leaky air ducts, and buying a smart thermostat. Whichever route you pursue, having an energy-efficient HVAC system will make your house stand out from the competition.
Not cleaning your house before trying to sell it
Most of us would probably be lying if we said our homes weren’t overdue for a good cleaning, so don’t forget to check this box before listing your home for sale. There’s nothing more off-putting during a home tour than realizing the house is dirty, and potential homebuyers may wonder what else you’ve been neglecting. By hiring a professional cleaning company, you’ll guarantee that not only is your home spotless but that you’re going to make a great impression on homebuyers when they tour your house.
Not addressing the exterior of your house
Over the years, your home’s exterior has taken a beating from the elements. With everything mother nature throws at it every year, the paint on your home’s exterior and the stain on your deck have likely lost a bit of their luster. So before listing, be sure to pressure wash your house first. In addition to making sure your house looks its best in the listing photos, you will also enhance the overall curb appeal when buyers eventually show up for a tour.

In addition to pressure washing your house and deck, you can also take the time to pressure wash your garage door, fence, patio, driveway, and any walkways you may have.
You never got around to repainting
One of the first things a potential buyer will notice when they pull up to your home is the paint. If you want to make a good first impression, then you’ll need to ensure that your home is painted an inviting color and that the quality of your paint job is top-notch. While the job of repainting your house might take a few days, the value of painting your house before selling will be well worth the effort. A recent study found that painting the exterior of your home has a 51 percent return on investment.

Don’t stop with the exterior though! We’ve all seen some pretty questionable color choices on the walls of homes. If you happen to have a lime green or bright purple wall, you’ll want to repaint them to be a more buyer-friendly neutral color. Doing so will make it easier for buyers to be able to picture themselves living in your home as it makes them think of your walls as a blank canvas.
Selling a home with a yard in need of some TLC
The other way to make a great first impression is by wowing potential buyers with your yard. Start by cleaning up anything that may be cluttering your yard, porch, or pathways (things like gardening equipment or a child’s bicycle). Then you can move onto mowing the lawn, weeding your garden, and planting some new flowers. If your yard has a damaged pathway, you may also want to think about fixing or even replacing it as well.

If these touch-ups seem like a lot to tackle while you’re trying to sell your home, don’t be afraid to hire a landscaper as the cost is well worth it. A study by Turf Magazine found that a home’s value tended to increase by as much as 10 to 12 percent after making upgrades to the landscaping.
You have mismatched appliances
Maybe your black stove died a couple of years ago and you replaced it with a brand new stainless steel one. Or maybe you swapped out that white kitchen faucet you always hated with a copper one that caught your eye. Either way, the result is mismatched appliances. While it won’t necessarily impact the overall sale price of your home, many homebuyers are going to find the mismatched color scheme off-putting, so consider making some changes before you sell.

The best way to proceed is to decide which kitchen appliances are your favorite and base the color scheme off of them. So if that fancy new stove you bought last year is stainless steel, then make sure your other appliances are too. Luckily, many appliance manufacturers offer discounts if you purchase multiple appliances with them at once.
Lingering during a home tour
Nobody likes a lingerer, especially when they also happen to be the owner of the home you’re currently touring. If you don’t leave the home during a showing, then potential buyers feel awkward as they attempt to discuss what they like and dislike about the house. You also prevent your listing agent from being able to do their job to the best of their abilities as you’re naturally going to want to answer any questions the buyers have rather than leaving those questions to your agent. So instead of staying in your home during a showing, try taking the opportunity to go shopping, run errands, or visit some friends instead. Your agent will thank you.
Taking a Lowball Offer Personally
Regardless of your reasons for moving, the fact that you’ve probably lived in your home for years means that you have a lot of strong feelings attached to it. So when you receive a lowball offer, it’s natural to be offended.

Instead of walking away, send them back a counteroffer that you and your real estate agent think is fair. If they really are interested, then you’ll be glad you didn’t let your emotions get the better of you.

Originally published on Redfin