5 Top Questions Realtors Are Asking About Moving (And One They Should Be)

5 Top Questions Realtors Are Asking About Moving (And One They Should Be)

As a real estate professional, you're often your clients' first point of contact for moving questions. Being able to answer confidently positions you as a trusted advisor and strengthens your client relationships. Here are the questions we hear most from Minnesota realtors — and one they should be asking.

Question 1: "When Should My Clients Start Planning Their Move?"

The Answer: As soon as the purchase agreement is signed — or even earlier.

Recommended Timeline:

• At listing/offer stage: Start getting moving quotes
• After accepted offer: Book a mover (especially during peak season)
• 30 days before closing: Begin packing non-essentials
• 2 weeks before closing: Pack most of the house
• Closing week: Final packing and moving day

Why It Matters:

During peak season (May–September), the best movers book up 4-6 weeks in advance. Clients who wait until after closing to think about moving may struggle to find quality movers on their preferred date.

Question 2: "How Much Should My Clients Budget for Moving?"

The Answer: It depends on the move type.

Local Moves (within Minneapolis/St. Paul metro):

• Studio/1BR: $400–$800
• 2-3BR: $800–$2,000
• 4+BR: $1,500–$3,500

Long-Distance Moves:

• Within Minnesota: $1,500–$4,000
• To neighboring states: $2,000–$5,000
• Cross-country: $4,000–$12,000+

Pro Tip for Agents:

Include estimated moving costs in your buyer consultation packet. It shows you think beyond the transaction and helps clients budget accurately.

Question 3: "Can My Clients Move Before or After Closing?"

The Answer: It's complicated and risky.

Moving Before Closing (Sellers):

• Generally not recommended — what if the deal falls through?
• If you must, use a storage solution rather than moving into the new home
• Blue Dolly offers short-term storage options for these situations

Moving After Closing (Buyers):

• This is the standard approach
• Schedule movers for the day of or day after closing
• Ensure utilities are transferred to your name before moving in

Rent-Back Situations:

When sellers need extra time after closing:

• Common in competitive markets
• Typically 1-30 days
• Negotiate terms in the purchase agreement
• Helps sellers coordinate their own move to the next home

Question 4: "What Should My Clients Do About Moving if They're Selling and Buying Simultaneously?"

The Answer: This is the most stressful scenario, but it's manageable with planning.

Strategy 1: Bridge with Storage

• Move out of old home into temporary storage
• Close on old home
• Close on new home
• Move from storage to new home
• Cost: Additional storage fees ($100-$300/month) but maximum flexibility

Strategy 2: Same-Day Double Move

• Close on old home in the morning
• Movers load from old home
• Close on new home
• Movers deliver to new home
• Risk: Tight timeline, any delay derails everything

Strategy 3: Contingent Closing

• Make your purchase contingent on selling your current home
• Less competitive in hot markets but eliminates the timing gamble

Blue Dolly Recommendation:

We frequently handle same-day double moves for Minnesota clients. Our team coordinates the timing and has contingency plans ready.

Question 5: "Do You Have a Moving Company You Recommend?"

The Answer: Yes — and you should!

Why Agents Need a Trusted Moving Partner:

• Clients ask for recommendations at every closing
• A bad moving experience reflects poorly on the entire transaction
• A great moving experience creates a positive lasting memory
• Referred clients become referral sources

What to Look for in a Moving Partner:

• Licensed and insured
• Excellent reviews and reputation
• Transparent pricing (no surprise charges)
• Professional, uniformed crew
• Reliable scheduling and communication
• Willingness to coordinate with closing timelines

The Question Realtors SHOULD Be Asking: "How Can Moving Services Add Value to My Client Relationships?"

Beyond the Transaction:

Moving is the most stressful part of buying or selling a home. By proactively connecting clients with a great mover, you:

1. Reduce client stress → happier clients → better reviews
2. Show you care beyond the commission → stronger relationships
3. Create a memorable experience → more referrals
4. Differentiate yourself from agents who just hand over keys

Consider:

• Including a moving guide in your closing packet
• Introducing clients to a trusted mover at the listing/buying stage
• Offering a "concierge" service that coordinates moves alongside closings
• Partnering with a mover who offers agent referral programs

Partner with Blue Dolly

We make your clients' moves smooth, which makes you look great. Our realtor partnership program includes:

• Priority scheduling for your clients
• Transparent pricing — no surprises that reflect poorly on you
• Professional, uniformed crews
• Coordination with your closing timeline
• Referral benefits for ongoing partnership

Start a partnership or get a quote for your client.

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Blue Dolly Moving partners with real estate professionals across Minnesota. Call (612) 400-9989.