With relatively nice weather and the start of a new school year knocking on the door, the month of August is historically one of the busiest moving months of the year. Regardless of the reasons for the relocation, moving can be both stressful and exhilarating. With a little guidance from the eResources in the Michigan eLibrary (MeL), movers can learn how to trim costs, prepare for the unexpected (like moving back in with your parents), and learn more about aging in a new place.

Moving Guides

Better Homes & Gardens, a publication in MasterFILE Complete, has a new Moving In guide (available via QR code). Here, you will find a moving day checklist, tricks for optimizing tight spaces, and DIY tasks that every homeowner should be able to tackle. A more challenging move, however, might be moving back in with your parents. According to 2024 U.S. Census Data, 57% of adults between 18 and 24 are living with parents, along with 16% of adults between 25 and 34. The Moving In guide offers sound tips for multigenerational living. If you are a first-time mover, be sure and check out the title, Moving Out on Your Own from the eBook Public Library Collection.

Trim Costs

Planning to Move? Trim Your Costs, an article in a recent Kiplinger Personal Finance publication from MasterFILE Complete, cites that 80% of those surveyed said they experienced unexpected expenses when they moved. Fortunately, there are simple steps offered to keep your costs down.  Another guide for minimizing costs can be found in The Hidden Costs of Moving from Real Simple, also in MasterFILE Complete.

Aging in a New Place

Have you heard of an ADU (accessory dwelling unit)? Because of the high cost of real estate, many regions of the country are seeing an uptick in ADU’s (commonly known as in-law suites). Aging in a New Place, an article from Washingtonian in MasterFILE Complete, offers many considerations when planning the ADU, including privacy, zoning, accessibility and flexibility. With numerous advantages highlighted, this might be the perfect option for many aging families outside of moving into a nursing home or residential care facility.

Moving can be a relatively stressful time for many of us. To avoid the many potential downfalls, be sure to prepare by staying organized, understanding all the costs, and seeking unique alternatives.

If you have any MeL eResources questions or issues, contact [email protected] for help.