If you’re planning on moving to the Gold Coast but you’re a bit strapped for cash, you’re no doubt worried about your finances, thinking about the new rent you will pay, moving fees etc. Moving house within a city can be an expensive business, so if you’re relocating from a different area or region, you can imagine it won’t be cheap. There are however a few tips and tricks to allow you to cut down costs that will be discussed in this article, allowing you to focus
on what really matters, enjoying your new home.
1. How to move to a new city with little money: Find the perfect house to fit your budget
The first step is to find your perfect house, within budget. This is made easy with property search engines that allow you to filter by price, location, size etc. This is a really easy way to find Gold Coast rentals under $500 meaning you can spend as little money as possible, saving for other expenses. This is probably the most important step as your rent will be your main monthly expense, so make sure you use all the tools available.
2. How to move to a new city with little money: Budget carefully
Once you’ve found a property, you need to create a detailed budget that you’ll have to follow closely. A great way to do this is to create a spreadsheet with your monthly income and expenses. Every time you spend a dollar, write it down and categorize it. This will allow you to see where you’re overspending, and how much money you really need. This may seem a bit tedious but it’s a useful way to end the month without getting into debt.
3. How to move to a new city with little money: Start saving
Once you have your spreadsheet set and can see where you’re overspending, this in turn will help you identify where you can start saving. This means being strict, more home-cooked meals, less eating out, you get the picture! Keep your savings in a safe space, and do not touch them. This money will be used for your move or for a rainy day so try to stick to the plan. A popular trick is to put the savings in a piggy bank, meaning you can only access the money by
breaking it. This will avoid the temptation to spend on unnecessary items.
4. How to move to a new city with little money: Get rid of your unwanted items
Another great way to get some extra cash is to sell all the unnecessary items you have. If you have some old DVDs you haven’t watched in years, why not sell them? Same with clothes or any
furniture. Not only this will give you a little more economic stability but will also reduce the amount of stuff you have to physically take to your new home. It’s a win-win situation! There are plenty of apps and websites that allow you to sell secondhand items, another way is to do a car boot sale.
DAPA Images, Canva.com
5. How to move to a new city with little money: Have a plan B
This point is very important not only for your peace of mind but also for your safety. Having a plan B will mean you won’t get into trouble if all goes wrong, be it a friend or a family member, you always need a safe roof over your head, regardless of how tight money gets. If you are far from friends and family, always keep some extra money handy to get home if need be.
6. How to move to a new city with little money: Ask for help
Asking for help will save you a lot of money when moving, be it packing or transporting your belongings. Source some cardboard boxes, most shops will be happy to give them away after deliveries. Do all your packing yourself to avoid paying removal companies an arm and a leg. Also, see if a friend has a car and can help you with the move. This way you’ll have a fun time with your friends as well as saving.
7. How to move to a new city with little money: Find a guarantor
Chances are if you’re low on money and looking for a new job, most tenants or banks will require a guarantor for renting an apartment or borrowing money. Have a think about who you trust enough to ask and see if that’s an option. By following these steps you’ll be ready to move in no time at all, even if you do need to watch your pennies. Soon you’ll be enjoying your first night in your new house, in your brand-new city.
Featured image credit: kanchanachitkhamma, Canva.com