Expert tips for relieving the stress of moving

Avoid the stress and strain Moving into a new home, whether it's across the country or just across the street, brings new beginnings, excitement and challenges. Planning, preparation and positive attitude can help ensure a smooth transition to the new home. "Working in real estate over the years, I've seen the stress that is involved with the decision of buying and selling a home," said Kendra Todd, star of HGTV's What's My House is Worth "And I know that you can accomplish your move with a minimum amount of stress." Todd offers easy, common sense tips to relieve some of the pre-moving and moving day stress: Two-in-one - When packing, protect breakable objects with other household items. For example, put placemats between dishes and wrap crystal in dishcloths. Not only do you secure your items, you reduce the number of boxes and save money on packing materials, which can account for a significant portion of your overall moving expenses. Just in case - Pack an emergency overnight bag with a change of clothes, toiletries, medicines and any emergency numbers. That way, if your move date is changed or delivery of your goods is delayed, you have necessities to carry you through a night or two in a hotel. Load-last carton - Label one box "load last" for all items that you will need to use right up until the day of the move, such as furniture hardware, the TV remote control and even toilet paper. Clear the clutter - Dispose of things you don't need or want before you move, there's no sense in packing and paying to move it. By getting rid of things before the move, you'll make your unpacking job easier and reduce the weight (and cost) of the total load. Mark it - Be sure to mark each box clearly, indicating its contents and the room in which it belongs. Use a dark, thick pen or marker that is easy to read. Get connected - Remember to call your utility and service providers (cable, gas, electric, etc.) ahead of time to disconnect services at your current home and connect them at your new address. - ARA