Home improvements: Make your move smart

Create drama with these dark and moody accessories.

Most of us dread the idea of moving houses in the UAE, because it can be a hugely stressful and expensive ­experience.

One of the biggest mistakes people make is spending excessively on refurnishing their apartment with brand- new items. Save money by purchasing hardly used second-­hand household items online.

Other cost-saving tips while moving apartments include getting multiple quotes from moving companies, so you can compare. Move early in the week when many moving companies have less incoming jobs. As a result, you may be in a position to negotiate a better rate.

Beware of unprofessional movers because they ask their individual helpers to request more tips. And when it’s all over and you unpack, you may find that items are damaged.

Use coupons for moving services and don’t buy packing supplies. For boxes, ask your friends, relatives and employers. Supermarkets and other stores also tend to have plenty of extra boxes on hand.

* Courtesy of classifieds website www.ezheights.com