Kidwell discusses unexpected moving costs

Karen Kidwell, senior vice president and regional manager of Long & Foster Real Estate’s Northern Virginia and West Virginia region, was recently interviewed by USA Today for their article on the unexpected costs of moving.

The article, “How to Create a Moving Budget: From Obvious Costs to Hidden Expenses” was featured in USA Today’s Homefront section. USA Today took a deep dive into the major costs and hidden expenses of moving – such as cleaning fees, security deposits, and meals. They stressed the importance of putting together a realistic moving budget and making informed decisions to reduce the stress of moving.

Kidwell was joined by several other industry leaders in the informative interview. When asked to discuss some of the frequently forgotten moving costs, Kidwell stated, “Homeowners and renters should consider and plan for [purchasing new] items that the moving company cannot move — live plants, perishable food items and liquids or flammable cleaning supplies. Each of these items can add up quickly, making it essential to plan accordingly.”

She was also asked for advice on how moving costs can drain one’s wallet if one is unprepared for the costs. “Surprise costs — emergency lodging, inflated fuel prices, or additional moving time fees — can set you back hundreds of dollars, turning what could have been a manageable cost into a financial strain.”

To read the full article, click here.

Whether you’re selling or buying a home, your Long & Foster agent can guide you every step of the way. We’re the one company that offers everything you need to reach your real estate goals – real estate, mortgage, inspection, title, insurance, moving and property management.