Losing a loved one is undoubtedly one of the hardest experiences we can endure. After such a devastating event, it’s understandable to feel overwhelmed and lost. For some, starting fresh in a new place can provide comfort and help ease some of the pain. Here are tips from the Arkansas Funeral Directors Association on how to move for a change of scenery and begin a new life after losing a loved one.
Letting Go of Your Family Home
If you’re considering moving out of your family home, know that there are options available to you. It is important to take into account the emotions associated with selling your family home. Doing something so radical as leaving your old life behind and starting in a new place can be immensely liberating and bring about much-needed change and transformation. When it comes time to prepare for the sale, make sure that all paperwork is organized and that you are ready for whatever questions potential buyers have about the property. Consider hiring an experienced real estate agent who can help guide you through this process.
Starting Anew in a New Home
It can be hard to make a fresh start after experiencing a significant loss. But, as Bryan Lincoln Real Estate points out, settling into a new home is the perfect opportunity for a fresh beginning. Though it may feel unsettling, picking up your life and shifting it somewhere else can lead to better things, free of any prior restrictions. When beginning your search for a new home, take into consideration what your needs are, as well as which features would make you most comfortable in your new living space. Make sure to look at all available listings that you might find something that better suits your needs than expected.
Starting a Business: Forming an LLC
One effective way to start fresh in a new place is by launching a business, and forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) can be an excellent choice. An LLC combines the liability protection of a corporation with the tax efficiencies and operational flexibility of a partnership. The tax benefits of an LLC vary significantly by state, which can influence where you choose to form your LLC. For instance, states like Wyoming and Florida are known for having some of the lowest LLC taxes by state, thanks to the absence of individual and corporate income taxes. However, these states may still have other taxes, such as franchise taxes or sales taxes.
Buying and Renting
During the house-hunting process, always keep an open mind and make sure to give each option its due diligence before making any decisions, such as whether to rent or buy a house. This decision often boils down to your timeline and how much you can afford. It’s best to take time with this decision and consider your long-term plans. It will also depend on the state of the local housing market. Use resources online to assess if it’s a buyer’s or seller’s market and whether a new home that suits your needs is available.
Downsizing to Reduce Baggage
One of the most difficult parts of moving after suffering from loss is downsizing belongings from your previous home. To make this process easier on yourself, Uncluttered Simplicity suggests sorting through items room by room rather than tackling everything at once. Sorting by categories will also help move things along efficiently while also helping create order during such an emotional time. Additionally, consider donating items or selling them online instead of throwing them away – it will save space and money in the long run.
Getting Help as You Move
Once you’ve figured out where you want to live and sorted through your belongings, it’s time to get down to business. Find handy moving checklists on Move.org that include everything from packing materials needed to what type of insurance coverage is required when transporting items across state lines or overseas. Better yet, consider hiring movers, as they can provide an extra level of support during this difficult transition period. Just make sure they are licensed.
Though it can be challenging, moving after a loss can also be extremely therapeutic. It can help you create distance from the pain and start to heal. But most importantly, it can give you a chance at a fresh start – something that we all need from time to time. If you’re considering making a move, don’t let your grief hold you back. Talk to friends, family, or even a therapist to get started on the process of saying goodbye to your old home and hello to your new one.
The Arkansas Funeral Directors Association is here to support and encourage excellence in our field. Let us know if you have any questions!