How to pay removal firm?

Thrak

Long time browser here but first time that I feel the need to ask a question.

I am completing and moving on the 21st, next Monday (hooray!). The problem is that the removal firm need payment upfront but, with solicitors etc. taking so long and having had to move job before house, any credit is completely maxed out. This includes loans, overdraft and, finally a zero percent card that has only a few hundred left. I could probably squeeze out about £400 to £500 but the move right across the country is nearly £2000, cheapest of a number of quotes.

I paid the deposit and hoped the bank would temporarily extend overdraft given that I already exchanged. No they won't, as they go off present outgoings, which have been pretty horrendous. One hour long frustrated 'computer says no' conversation later.....

I've already borrowed some money from family to get me through to the completion and desperate not to ask again as I don't think they can help.

What do I do? Is there any way to use part of the deposit already paid? Is it cheaper to move out, store for a few days and then pay for the move after I have the completion money (I will have a nice profit)? Any stories of a bank actually helping?

Elfbert

That's a tricky one! Moving costs really need to be factored into the cost of housebuying, and it sounds like you're rather overstretched yourself.

Mates with a van? Try to sell some stuff for cash? Have you got enough money to hire a Luton or something and move yourself (even if only into storage nearby - it would be more expensive long-term, but you do have to be out of the house on the 21st, no matter what! And you seem like you'll have extra money then.)

Thrak

None of those work unfortunately. Already paid deposit and fixed date, don't drive and am a couple of hundred miles away from the property I have sold.

All was factored in, then one minor point took weeks to resolve (ridiculously in view of my agent), meaning that I had to pay another months mortgage and rent etc. (having to pay for two places as had to start work before I could move).

There must be something surely?

eddddy

Thrak wrote: »

...and then pay for the move after I have the completion money (I will have a nice profit)?

You could ask the removal firm if they would agree to your solicitor paying them on completion, from your completion money.

Essentially, that means your solicitor pays the removal firm the £2k from your completion money and then pays you what is left.

I would guess that your solicitor would send the removal company a letter confirming the arrangement in advance, if you instruct them to.

Thrak

Thanks, the removal firm said 'payment must be cleared before unloading starts'. Does this mean that on completion day the solicitor could pay them direct? Presumably there would be a cost for the transfer but that's no problem. I emailed them today to ask about options so will follow that up.

LABMAN

Can your Solicitor get you a 'bridging loan' perhaps? Explain the situation to them and see what they can do?

[Deleted User]

Can you try finding a friend/neighbour/anyone who would drive a van for you - sell some stuff to pay for a van if you have to?

Thrak

I'm going the solicitor and payment transfer route. It appears to be the safest way. I am contracted to the removal firm on that date, even if I could drive or get someone else to. Fifty years worth of stuff also means it has to be a pretty big van!

adom_thomas

Have you tried to negotiate the moving firm? If not then you must do that. I know it will not help you completely but it will reduce the cost.

oldchap1000

If its a move for a new job, you could try asking for an advance on your next salary payment? Effectively getting a loan from the employer.

Some employers will also help with moving costs as part of the starting package.

Thrak

Thanks for the suggestions. The solicitor said no so my preferred option is gone. Credit Card tried to increase limit but no, appointment with bank on Wednesday to see if they can override and give temporary overdraft increase. That's leaving it late as removal firm want payment sent by Thursday. Also asked removal firm if they can make a suggestion and they will get back to me later.