You've made it through the emotional decision of deciding to relocate to Carlsbad, or wherever (Part 1 on the psychological and emotional issues), and hired an excellent REALTOR to help you sell your home and have done everything you should to get ready for presenting your home to the buying public (Part 2 on selling your current home). You found a terrific agent in your new location to help you, and you have started your house hunting and learning about the area you are moving to (Part 3 on house hunting from a distance).

 

It’s not too early (and if you already sold your home the time is NOW) to start planning the actual move. It’s amazing how quickly time can fly and if you aren’t prepared you will find yourself in trouble.

There really are two types of relocations to focus on:

If you do have a relocation package, I would read this first section as well – issues specific to dealing with these programs will be addressed in the next post since fewer folks have them.

NO RELOCATION PACKAGE

While you don’t have any financial assistance, nor a relocation company to assist with some of the stuff you have to deal with when relocating, there’s much to consider as you prepare for a significant move. Having done this 4 times (well, 2 without the aid of a relocation package), I have a few thoughts.

First and foremost, PLAN AHEAD. Think through all that has to happen and develop a calendar of critical dates. You might want to read Relocation: Timing Is Everything. It deals not only with critical dates in selling and buying, and in your purchase or sales contract, but also with the move itself.

 

If you are not a list maker, become one - NOW. You will be amazed at how much you have to do and keep track of. Here’s a start on a moving checklist. If you have bought a new property don’t forget to add utilities for your new home to your list of to-do’s.

 

You may be one of those venturesome sorts who plans to rent a Uhaul, load it yourself, and drive to your destination. This takes some planning. You need to schedule the truck rental, do some packing, plan your route, and so on.

 

If you are hiring movers, which is common for long distance moves, you need time to go about selecting a moving company -  you should obtain estimates from several companies, decide who to hire, and plan your schedule. Keep in mind moving companies may be booked on certain days and their schedule may determine YOUR schedule. And their arrival date may not coincide with what you have in mind. You need to know these things so you can plan accordingly. You also need to decide whether to do the packing yourself, or pay the movers to do it. And here’s a packing tip for your new home.

Is your new Carlsbad home ready to move in? Or does it need some fixing up? You should consider whether to remodel before moving in or not, especially if you have the time or the work you want to do is substantial (say new flooring or a kitchen remodel).

 

Are you relocating with kids? Have pets to move too? Yep, been there, done that…a few times. These articles should help. Are you flying or driving with your pets? Here are some things to know.

 

 

Good luck with planning and preparing for your move. The next article will address some specific issues to know about relocation packages.

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