Moving House: How to Literally Relocate a Home
by Mashum Mollah Real Estate 10 July 2019
There are many reasons why you might want to relocate your home. Acquiring a house for cheap and moving it to the desired location can be a more economical option as opposed to buying a home that’s already standing in a new area. You might also be in a position where moving your home is the only option to keep it standing. Regardless, there are lots of steps and details that go into relocating, but the process doesn’t have to be stressful. Here are some things for you to consider.
Getting Started:
Unfortunately, moving a house isn’t as simple as lifting it off one plot of land and plopping it onto another. There could be all sorts of fees and permits required, and that’s just to get the house onto a truck. You’ll need to move power lines and might even need to have a home inspector take a look both before and after the move. Getting a house in order, especially a big one can become dangerous if not done right. Luckily, a moving company specializing in home relocation can take care of just about everything for you.
Choosing a Relocation Company:
When searching for a relocation company, consider the price. Many companies charge by the square foot of the house, so you could pay tens or even hundreds of thousands to relocate depending on the size of the house and how far you need it to go. A typical price would be $14-$16 per square foot, but that doesn’t include any extras.
When speaking with relocation companies, also consider the logistics of moving the house from one place to another. The challenges the company will face along certain roads may make moving next to impossible, or at least far more expensive than you’re willing to pay for. However, if you’re set on moving, here’s what you can expect.
The Process:
First of all, if you have a mortgage, you’ll need to discuss everything with your bank. If they don’t approve everything first, you’re out of luck. Once the project is greenlit, the relocation company can arrange everything for you, including finding people to handle disconnecting things like electric lines. At the final location for the house, you’ll need to prepare a foundation like a stem wall ahead of time. Local contractors can help you figure out how to reconnect the infrastructure once the house has arrived.
A good relocation company should also be insured, but it’s your job to check their coverage for all areas of liability before the project gets started. There’s no telling what kinds of issues you’ll hit once the house is on the road. They can show you the best route and get permits if you need them.
It may be easier and cheaper to relocate a simple cabin versus a several-story home, but only you can decide if the obstacles are worth it. When done properly and with the right professionals, relocating a home can be a relatively simple and stress-free process. Once you’ve conducted the right research, you should be able to make the best decision for yourself and your future home.
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