Reducing the financial impact of moving.

Moving is one of the more stressful events of life, often requiring the need to deal with a new job, new home, new town, new school, and new friends. It also can be financially stressful.

Some of the monetary impact is readily obvious--the cost of hiring a professional mover, storage of household possessions, traveling from your old home to your new one--but don't overlook other key costs associated with moving, suggests the Institute of Certified Financial Planners.

Loss of spouse's income. Many moves are because of a company transfer or a new job. This often means that a working spouse will have to quit his or her job and seek employment in the new location--a significant financial impact, especially if jobs are scarce. In such cases, ask if your employer will pay for lost-wage compensation for the spouse or for re-employment assistance, such as resume preparation, career counseling, job search, and hiring within the company.

Higher cost of living. Ideally, the new job will compensate for the increase, but not always. Some companies will pay for the higher cost of housing, for example, so be sure to ask up front and secure a written agreement.

Cost of buying and selling a home. There may be legal and financing fees, commissions, and other expenses involved in selling your old home and buying a new one. Or if you rent, you may have to pay your landlord to break the lease...