Author: Patricia Feager, 12/29/19
Finding the right home and closing on your property is usually very exciting. But then reality sets in that you may or may not even think of before closing. Or perhaps you were told but failed to do because so much was going on during the time you started the process, had an executed contract, and the time you were on your own to move into your new place.
Utilities
It is a really good idea to make arrangements with the Utility Companies before you move rather than wait until you receive the keys. Never take water, heat, or air for granted, especially if connections begin on weekends or holidays. Most likely deposits will be necessary. If applicable, make sure you disconnect services from where you lived previously. When is trash pick-up and how do you get trash and recycling cans and/or bins?
Communication
It takes time for Internet connections. Know in advance who you should call to get all your computer devices connected. Never assume what worked for you before will work now if you didn't make arrangements in advance. Wiring and electrical systems may need to be changed to accommodate your technology and needs.
Security
Changing the locks to your home on the day you move in will give you added peace of mind.
Boxes
Boxes can be overwhelming. Moving into an organized home doesn't happen overnight. It takes time. Be sure to label your boxes and prioritize which boxes need to be opened first before moving. A house can feel cold and bare until you get everything arranged. It helps to have some family photographs as soon as you unpack, especially if you moved far away from family and friends.
Where's Waldo?
- Where are the Police & Fire Stations?
- Where is the Post Office?
- Where are the Grocery Stores?
- Where is the Hardware Store?
- Where is the Pharmacy?
- Where is the Vet's Office for Pets?
- Where are the schools?
- Where are the main roads and back roads?
- Where is the nearest downtown or Main Street?
- Where is the Dry Cleaners?
- Where is the Dentist Office?
- Where is the nearest Hospitals?
- Where is a church?
- Where are closest ER's and Medical Facilities?
- Where is there something fun to do?
- Where is the Department of Motor Vehicles to change your Driver's License?
- Where is your City Hall?
- What are your choices for banking?
- Where do you get Toll Tags?
- Where is the 7 11 Convenient Store?
- Where can you get liquor?
- Where do you get a massage therapy?
- Where can you get your hair and nails done?
- Where is Walmart?
What Are the Hard Things
Until you settle in, you have to be willing to do some of the hard things. Getting organized takes time. Set your own time-lines and deadlines. You have to have a vision before you implement, create, and design. Big projects takes longer. Focus on what needs to be done immediately. Don't be tempted to spend more than you need. Everything doesn't need to be done right away. Good things take time. You have to learn how to deal with things that are outside of your control, such as the weather, season, skills you don't have, and other people's schedules. If you unpack a box and you think it needs to go in storage, sometimes, you have to be realistic and let things go. Sometimes, it's hard to ask for help - family members, new neighbors, nosy neighbors, friends, co-workers? Figure out what works best for you and remember, you're the boss. With a positive attitude, be patient with yourself and others too.
"You always do what you want to do. This is true with every act.
You may say that you had to do something, or that you
were forced to, but actually, whatever you do, you do by choice.
Only you have the power to choose for yourself."
W. Clement Stone
