Planning is key to a successful move

One of my favorite pastimes is exploring houses for sale in a few of my favorite destinations.

I love looking at multimillion dollar sprawling estates in wine country, quaint seaside cottages in Carmel by the Sea, high-rise penthouses in San Francisco, family farms tucked away along Highway 5 – and everything in between. It’s dreamy to imagine yourself in these unique dwellings, and even more exciting if you’re actually looking to make a move.

Moving can be a major undertaking, from the selection of your new residence, to the financial rigmarole and the organization of packing and unpacking. Like with any design project, and this definitely is a design project, breaking down the move will help you feel more in control of this exciting venture.

Although getting your current house packed is a major chore, it’s also a chance to weed through belongings and thin things out – definitely a bonus. If you’re looking for help with this process, consider online a la carte resources like TaskRabbit, care.com and Thumbtack, The sites will connect you with individuals who can assist with packing, cleaning and organizing.

You can also search online for specialty movers that focus on items like fine art, antiques, pianos and large aquariums.

Once at your new residence, you want to personalize just about everything. There are two directions to consider: Focus on basic decorative items or plan a remodel.

Basic decorative items include upgrading light fixtures, door knobs and hinges, along with paint and flooring. In some instances, the previous homeowner added a fresh coat of paint or installed new carpet. But if these items still need updating, it’s wise to get a painter and flooring installer into the house before you move in your furniture.

More thought is required for larger projects, like remodeling the kitchen or the bathrooms, moving or opening up a wall, or adding an extra bedroom or bonus room. In a world with no budgetary limits, it would be fantastic to get these projects complete before you move. But Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither will your new residence.

Unless your intent is to demo on day one, take your time and live in your new space. Find out what you like, what needs an adjustment and what needs a whole new look.

Moving doesn’t always mean upgrades and changes are necessary. The move itself might be the upgrade. But we are living in the age of the fixer upper and sometimes, there’s no better satisfaction than personalizing a living space beyond a new door knob.

Whatever your moving goals, be sure to find professionals who will help you make the process smooth and even enjoyable. Create a well-organized moving plan from your current residence and a thoughtful move-in plan that takes possible upgrades and design projects into consideration. Line up projects in sequence so you aren’t backtracking.

Jennifer Leischer is the owner of J. Designs Interior Design based in Clayton. Contact her with questions, comments and suggestions at jenna@j-designs.com.