Relocating to a new city can be somewhat intimidating! As a real estate consultant, one of my goals is to make the transition easier for you. These tips can make it a - less intimidating - more enjoyable experience for you!
Time Saving Tips for Relocating to your new Location
1. Organize, Prioritize, Minimize
- Donate to Goodwill, Salvation Army, or Habitat for Humanity. Clean out the clutter and give away what you really don't need or want to move.
- List the most important things you must do before you leave your present home that will ensure a smoothe transition to your new home. Set aside magazines, bills, and other recurring mail that you want to move with you to your new address. Get the US Post Office moving packet to send your change of address to your credit card companies, your subscriptions, your friends and family.
- Pack travel items in compact compartments in travel size bags. Instead of packing the entire 250-size box of q-tips, place a small amount to get you to your new destination in a ziplock bag in your carry-on travel bag. Place travel-size personal items in with a few extra changes of clothing for each family member in a separate travel bag. If you have to stop overnight, you will appreciate carrying one small bag into the hotel instead of everyone's big suitcase. You may have to "wing it" the first night you arrive in your new city, and the more compact you have packed for everyone the easier it is to settle in.
2. Arrange Account Transfers In Advance
- Electric and Gas Company Accounts
- Water, Sewer, and Garbage Utilities
- Cable, Internet, and Phone Services
- Mobile or Wireless Phones and Internet Cards
- Pest Control and Lawn Care Companies
- Bank Accounts, Investment Funds, Legal Advisors
3. Moving Company Precautions and Proceedures
- Coordinate your departure and arrival schedule
- Furnish your en-route contact information with the moving van driver
- Remove personal items that need to "go with you" out of your house. Put items that you need in your car so they won't get lost, stolen, or accidentally packed by the moving company.
- Label boxes by content and which room you want them to go to in your new home
- Do not pack flammable items, open containers (especially food items), jewelry or valuables for the moving company. Transport these items separately from your household goods.
4. Go before and behind your movers checking areas others may miss
- Take the time to walk through your old house one last time after everything has been moved out
- Check basements, attics, closets, cabinets, behind remaining window treatments, and garages for any items that movers may have missed.
- Try to be available when your movers are unloading your items. Photograph and report any damages.
- Point out the right location to those helping you unpack/unload boxes and funiture items.
- Watch out for anything that might cause someone to trip, fall, or hit their head on low hanging areas.
5. Take a positive attitude with you on the journey
- Prepare children and pets for the move by making sure they have snacks, pillows and blankets, and an extra change of clothing. Young and older family members may need to stop more frequently for meals or restroom breaks. Comfortable people are happier people.
- Discuss any concerns or problems with the moving van driver before you get on the road. Try to establish an open line of communication with everyone involved in the move so there are no surprises.
- Smile and compliment those who are trying to help you pack and move furniture and heavy items. Set the tone for a pleasant trip!
Contact me anytime while you are preparing to relocate or during your move. I will help anyway possible!