Tips for Moving During COVID
Planning a move within the next calendar year? This post is for you!
Moving is hard work - no matter if you hire help or, gulp, you go for it solo. Add in the fears of a pandemic and it may just be enough to make you stay put for awhile! For those forging onward with moving plans this coming year, I’ve gather some quick tips for ensuring everyone’s health and safety so your move is as painless as possible.
Photo / Unsplash, HiveBoxx
What safety protocols should people expect professional movers to be using right now?
All professional movers should arrive and operate masked, always keeping the suggested 6 feet of separation. I urge my clients to have completed the packing prior to any movers arriving, and while I recommend clients be present to greet the movers if any instruction is required, for the safety of everyone, I suggest this be done outdoors or by phone. Expect your movers to be diligent about these safety protocols and don’t be afraid to request them on the spot if your family is indeed present for any moving work and you do not see the protocols being immediately followed.
What's your best advice for people moving right now and are worried about COVID?
I recommend following all state protocols regarding COVID. Even though it is a more stressful time to be moving than normal, you can still do it safely. Your realtor should be able to help guide you through this process and answer any of your questions. As a professional in this industry, realtors are expected to become local experts on the subject; they are there to help and support the complete transaction - from house-hunting, to the paperwork process, to the moving logistics. Personally, I have relationships with a couple key moving companies and I prefer to recommend those companies to my clients because I trust them - chances are your realtor will have the same relationships in their community as well. Just ask!
What precautions can families take right now if they’re faced with a move?
Planning is key. Feel free to ask questions of your movers ahead of time to establish expectations. If you’re not comfortable with this, you can always lean on your realtor to help you - they will likely be happy to help as it is our mission to make your sale/purchase/move process as seamless as we can! Ultimately, my clients have found success in moving during COVID when they are very clear on how their movers will be helping them, and when COVID safety tactics are discussed and agreed to in advance of moving day. Write out the plan and do your part to stick to it. A professional moving service will have no problems sticking to the protocols.
Generally, what COVID-precautions are realtors taking during this time?
Scheduling showings for your clients and running through the protocols for showings with clients in advance is incredibly helpful for everyone. You need to be wearing a mask at all times and realtors should be strictly adhering to the limitations on number of people allowed in the home at one time - only five individuals, young or old, at a time.