What can I do to prepare for my move?
Preparing to move is a huge undertaking, but if done in an organized and strategic manner, it can go smoothly. More than likely, you have already packed up some of your personal items to get ready for listing. At this point, you need to start packing the rest and be all complete by the final walk-thru, allowing time for cleanup.
The quickest and easiest way to prepare for your move is to hire a moving company. Many will show up a few days before closing and pack everything for you, label it and move it or store it until your are ready. This is convenient but also more costly. Another option is to pack yourself and have a POD delivered to your driveway to move at your leisure or pack up your items yourself and have movers come and pack the truck and move you. You can also rent a moving truck and move yourself. You will decide based on your particular situation.
Packing:
If you choose to pack yourself, here are some tips to keep you on track:
To get prepared for packing, you will need a variety of boxes of varying sizes and shapes, packing tape, markers, padding, newspaper and blankets. You can go to a local moving company or U-haul and purchase boxes, order them online or you can pick up at Home Depot or Lowes. Purchase a packing tape dispenser and labels. You can also purchase colored packing tape pre-printed with the individual rooms on it.
One of the best strategies is to start with items you are not using on a daily basis and could do without for a few weeks. Make a list of everything you are putting in the box and attach a label to the box. This will make things easy to find and quick to locate. Take the time to go through everything and weed out those items you no longer need. This is a great time for “spring cleaning”. Keep some boxes aside to donate or give away.
Make a list of essential items you will need immediately such as toiletries, a few changes of clothes, important documents, cooking supplies, toys, pet care products and anything else you may use on a daily basis that you cannot go without. Keep these items in a specially marked box and keep them close to you.
Utilities:
You will need to call the utility companies at your new home to arrange service as well as set up a disconnect date for your current home. The most critical are electricity and gas. You can arrange phone, cable and garbage service when you arrive. Be sure to disconnect any alarm, lawn, termite or newspaper services.
Mail:
You can go online or pick up a change of address form for the post office. Be sure to leave your name and forwarding address for the new owners to that they can contact you if any mail slips through the cracks. Have some new labels made up with your new address so that you can start notifying those you do business with. You can change your address online with most of your creditors.
Medical Records:
Contact your doctor, dentist and vet to have any medical records transferred to your new location or get a copy to take with you. Keep all important paperwork in a file for easy access. You will also need school records if you have children.
Moving out of town or state:
If you are moving a long distance, don’t forget to check on any dry cleaning, photos, repair items or anything else you may have outside the home. If you have safe deposit box, you will need to empty it and transfer to a new bank. You may also have to close out your bank accounts.
Best Tips:
Have a Checklist or two
Do a little at a time
Don’t Stress! Have a great move and enjoy your new home.
Here are some sites with useful information on moving:
Other titles in the seller series:
Article #1: Seller Questions Answered – A preview to Listing your home for Sale
Article #2: What do I need to do to prepare my home for sale?
Article #3: Why do I need an Real Estate agent and how do I select one?
Article #4: I have signed the paperwork, now what? -What to expect during the listing period
Article #5: A buyer wants to see my home -How can I maximize showing opportunities?
Article #6: I have received an offer – now what?
Article #7: My home is under contract – What are the next steps?
Article #8: What can I do to prepare for my move?
Article #9: What can I expect at the closing table?
Article #10: What happens after my home is SOLD?
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Sonya Leonard –Keller Williams Realty – Mooresville NC. The Home Style Team provides free access to individualized home searches for all homes in Statesville, Mooresville, Troutman, Lake Norman and the entire Lake Norman Area. Explore buyer and seller reports, community resources, new home communities, and be sure to sign up for instant alerts to help find your dream home. Let Sonya help you INVEST in Real Estate and your Future! (704) 450-0588
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