The latest statistics on Housing Starts were released today by the Commerce Department and they've dropped to the lowest level since 1959 when they started keeping statistics. Most news reports framed this as more bad news for the housing market and the stock markets reacted accordingly. But in my opinion, less new construction homes aren’t really bad news. 

With my family's move just 3 days away, I've been keeping track of what planning steps are working and what things we could have done to save ourselves some hassle.  Here are my top tips:

1. Start a Notebook.  Moving involves many details and writing them all down in one place has helped us keep our heads on straight.  If you can find a notebook with tabs, set up separate sections for each phase - before the move, moving day, to do at the new house, to do at the old house, etc.
2. Measure Everything.  Keep a tape measure handy and measure your furniture, the rooms in the new house and all of the doorways the furniture needs to fit through.  We're moving into an old house and had a rude awakening when we realized that our couch wouldn't fit through the doorway and our box spring won't make it up the stairs.  It's an inconvenience, but at least we know about the problems ahead of time so we can plan for them (yes, we bought a new couch).
3. Pack Anything You Can Live Without for a While.  If you start packing anything you won't need for a while, you'll save yourself a lot of late nights the last few days before the move.
4. Keep Track of Your Expenses.  Get estimates for any work you need to have done before, during or after the move so you know how much money you'll need to get through it all.  Be sure to set aside extra funds for the unexpected (a new couch?!) and tips for movers, etc.
5. Get Referrals for Reliable Professionals.  Ask friends, family or your REALTOR for the names of any service people that you'll need to make your move go more smoothly.  Getting a referral will make you feel more confident that you will get the service you need when you need it.
6. Keep the Cleaning Supplies Handy.  The previous owners/tenants of your new home should have left it in "broom clean" condition for you, but what they consider "broom clean" might not suit you.  So keep all of your cleaning supplies handy or arrange to have a cleaning service get everything spotless for you the day or morning before you move in.
7. Gather Lots of Boxes & Packing Supplies.  If you're getting boxes from your movers, have then deliver them early (see #3 above), along with lots of tape and packing paper or bubble wrap.  If you need boxes, ask at your local supermarket, liquor store or other store to see if you can pick up boxes before they crush them for recycling.  Also start saving newspapers or ask if the supermarket will give you their leftover papers.  Newspaper makes great padding for packing delicate items.
8. Pack by Room or Category.  Keep like items together when you pack them in boxes and label each box with the contents and name of the room that they go into in your new house.  That way you'll be able to easily tell which box goes where and figure out which boxes to open first when you're unpacking.
9. Keep Your Valuables with You.  If you have valuable jewelry, treasured collectibles or important paperwork, pack them into boxes or suitcases and take them with you in your car when you move.  Moving companies are insured and responsible, but it will make you feel better to know that your most important possessions are under your control throughout the move.
10. Take Breaks.  Don't forget to eat, drink lots of water and just relax every once in a while.  The last thing you want is to get hurt or too exhausted.

I'll be sure to let you know how all of our planning works out.  If you have any great moving tips that I haven't thought of, please feel free to post them in the comments.  It would be great to get your input.