Homeownership is one of the best ways to build long-term wealth. Whether you're about to become a homeowner for the first time or you've purchased real estate many times before, you'll want your move to go smoothly. These moving tips are part of any home-buying advice to keep in mind as you prepare to relocate.
Prepare a checklist as you plan your move. This should include specifics such as home essentials, which pieces of furniture to keep and which ones to sell or put in storage, where each item goes, and what to buy for the new house. Set the date and time of your move. Calculate how much time you'll need to pack and move everything. Trying to cram everything into the moving truck at the last minute may be stressful, and you run the risk of forgetting anything vital.
A major relocation needs professional movers. Expert movers know how to make sure your items are transported easily, safely, and arrive at your intended destination intact. Get quotes from several movers and choose the one you like best. Speak with them about the schedule of your move, if you need a truck or trailer, and the list of items to be transported. Remember that it might be harder to book movers during certain times, such as the summer months. Allow more time if you're going to move during this time.
As a home buyer, chances are you've spent time thinking about the new community you’ll be living in. Now is the time to research it even further. Look for amenities close to your area, such as a library, hospital, coffee place, gym, pet shop, and shopping and community centers. If you have some time, walk the streets in the area before you arrive. Do a test run for your new commute to find out the best way to get to work.
It's imperative to have a walk-through of the entire house no more than a day or two before you're going to move. Make sure all is in order before you move in. It would be best if you also had your utilities set up and running on the day you move in. Find out what utilities serve your new community. Look for any problems with the house. Document any such issues and make sure they are fully corrected before your planned move.
Moving to a new location is a chance to start a brand-new life. That's particularly true for children who need special care during the transition and a chance to explore their new home with you. Make sure to value their input and consider their special needs to help them adjust to their new lifestyle. One way to do this is to involve them at every stage of the move, including planning, packing, and unpacking their belongings. Using a game-like organizational system like Moving Game Plans™ gives kids a fun way to tackle “grown-up” tasks and potentially “beat” other family members at key tasks along the way. Streamlining tasks and making the move fun are the keys to having the whole family smiling all the way through the move.
Security is crucial no matter where you live. Once you've moved, it's time to get those locks changed. Make sure the front door and all other doors, such as the door in the backyard, have brand new locks once you're residing there. Ensure the porch lights are working to protect your home during the evening hours. It’s necessary to install a security system around your property.
When you move, you're going to change your address. You want to let everyone know about it. Inform your family and friends about your new mailing address. You will also need to let all the companies you do business with know that you have a new address for your regular correspondence and bills. The same is true of your employer. Find out how to make any changes to your paycheck. Be extra careful with whom you are sharing your contact information.
Meeting new people is one of the greatest joys of moving. Knock on your neighbor's doors and let them know you're about to be part of their community. Introduce yourself and all your family members to everyone in the immediate area. Consider bringing a small gift with you as you speak with the neighbors. Baked goods or a bottle of wine are good choices. Your neighbors are pleased to answer any questions you might have about the area. They're also delighted to let you know about their favorite places to eat and fun things you can do on your leisure time.
Take a deep breath and think about your daily activities now that you’re in the new place. Make a to-do list. Routines help you get things done, such as food and grocery shopping every Thursday, workout session, kids’ sport activities, and even dinner dates. If you like to spend your Sunday mornings with a cup of coffee and a pastry, take a stroll in your new community and see what's on tap.
While moving can be quite stressful in many ways, it will also lead to really good things in your life. You have the chance to begin a new chapter in your life. Focus on all the positive things going on as the transition continues. You finally have the opportunity to create the kind of spaces you've always wanted in a home of your own. Think about the many wonderful things you're going to have once you settle in. It's all waiting for you in this bright new, inviting house.
