Make the condo move with ease


By Barbara Lawlor
Moving into a condominium allows suite owners to leave behind the worries of maintaining a large property and embrace a more carefree lifestyle. Nonetheless, a major move can also be stressful – especially if you are coming from a large home with countless possessions. A little pre-planning can make moving day go smoothly. Even if you purchase at the very beginning of sales and your condo will not be ready for occupancy for a couple of years, start thinking now about paring down. Why move items that will just clutter your space and add the hassle of trying to sell or give away after you’ve settled in?
Here are a few tips that can help:
» Take a good look at your floorplan and figure out what furniture can go where. Pay attention to the room dimensions and be reasonable. Ask yourself what you already own that you will want in your new environment. Flag pieces that will not be part of your condominium lifestyle and start the process of fi nding homes for them.
» When you pare down possessions, remember that the amenities in the building are like extensions of your living space. There’s no need for that elliptical trainer if you have an equipped fitness room an elevator-ride away.
» Consider hiring an organizer to help you envision your new space and decide what is appropriate to move with you. These professionals have an eye for looking at a room and knowing exactly how to maximize the area.
» If you need to purchase furniture, take heart – today’s manufacturers have gone all out to design multi-purpose items that can help you make the most of your space. From Murphy beds to coŠffee tables that swivel up to become dining surfaces and armoires that can house entertainment systems or computer nooks, there are items available in just about any colour and style you would want.
» Are you a plant fanatic? Here’s where your floorplan can come in handy again. Which directions do your windows and balconies face? What plants do well in those natural light conditions? And give some thought to container gardening on your balcony or terrace.
» Be sure to ask your developer early on about the procedure on move-in day. You may have to book elevators well in advance. And of course, this needs to be co-ordinated with your moving company. Moving day is a lot more pleasant when there are no surprises.
» Leave children and pets with someone else on that day. Having to keep track of toddlers or dogs will add unnecessary stress.
When it comes to moving into your new condo, a little foresight goes a long way to achieving your beautiful vision. Even if your occupancy date is well into the future, start your move now – mentally. Then enjoy your fabulous new home!
Barbara Lawlor – president of Baker Real Estate Inc., and an in-demand columnist and speaker. A member of the Baker team since 1993, Barbara oversees the marketing and sale of condominium developments in Canada and overseas.
Original Source: NEW CONDO GUIDE October 16 – 30, 2015

Original article: The Province
Read original aricle here.