Get Ready to Live a Life You Love in Your Brand New Home!
Get Ready to Live a Life You Love in Your Brand New Home!
The Final Countdown: Preparing for Your Move
The final weeks before moving into your new home will be filled with anticipation and possibly a moment or two of anxiety. The more organized you are and the more you understand about what to expect during your move, on your settlement day, and afterwards, the easier the entire experience will be.
Create a Solid Moving Plan
Start with a clear timeline. While glitches like weather delays or construction hiccups can occur, staying in close communication with your builder will help you anticipate completion dates. Use this time to:
- Print and annotate your new home’s floor plan to visualize furniture placement.
- Declutter and decide what to keep, sell, or donate.
- Share labeled floor plans with movers to streamline unloading.
Choosing the Right Moving Company
Professional movers can ease the stress of relocation. Follow these steps to find the best fit:
- Ask for recommendations from trusted sources (real estate agents, friends).
- Verify licenses and check references.
- Understand insurance options:
- Full Valuation Protection: Covers repair/replacement costs for damaged items.
- Released Value Coverage: Basic coverage (typically 60 cents per pound per item).
- Confirm if additional insurance is needed through third parties or existing homeowners policies.
Packing Strategies for a Stress-Free Move
Start early and stay organized:
- Inventory Your Belongings: Use apps like MyStuff2 or Home Inventory for tracking.
- Pack Non-Essentials First: Seasonal items, decorations, and stored boxes.
- Label Clearly: Mark boxes by room and keep a “Day One” essentials box handy.
- Purge as You Go: Sell or donate unused items through yard sales or online platforms.
Update Your Address and Utilities
Avoid missed mail and service interruptions:
- Submit a USPS Change of Address form online or in person.
- Notify banks, insurers, DMV, and subscriptions.
- Transfer utilities and coordinate activation dates with your builder.
- Register children for new schools and transfer records.
Finalize Insurance and Financial Details
Homeowners Insurance
- Confirm coverage starts on closing day.
- Consider installing or activating a security system.
Stay in Touch With Your Lender
Ensure financing is finalized and review:
- Closing costs and payment schedules.
- Budget adjustments for new mortgage payments.
Final Walkthrough and Settlement Day
Before closing:
- Conduct a final inspection to verify repairs and completion.
- Bring proof of insurance and payment to settlement.
- Celebrate—your new home awaits!
