STEP TWELVE: PLANNING FOR MOVING DAY

You made it! The day has finally arrived and you’ll be moving into your new home. There are plenty of logistics to consider, so here are some important planning tips.

Be Prepared for the Movers 

Make sure the moving van has room to park as well as easy access to both houses. Movers expect payment upon delivery, so you’ll also need to have a certified check and/or cash available to settle the bill. Many movers accept credit cards as well, so inquire in advance if this is your chosen payment method.

• • Work With the Movers
    Be available to answer questions about packing order and fragile items. Point out any items you intend to move yourself, and keep these things separated from those to be handled by the movers. Make sure the movers have clear directions to the new house as well as a phone number to reach someone if they get lost or have any problems. Make sure someone remains at your old home until the movers are packed and ready to leave.
  • Do a Final Walkthrough
    Make one last inspection of your old home to ensure that nothing has been forgotten and left behind.
  • Arrange for Mail to be Forwarded
    You’ll actually want to make these arrangements a few weeks prior to moving day. Go to your old post office and arrange for mail to be forwarded to your new address. Send out change of address cards with your new location.
  • Get Settled into Your New Home
    Target the most important areas of your new home and unpack for these rooms first. Arrange to have someone available at the house during the first few days to coordinate installations and deliveries. Have written instructions prepared for installers to make sure you get phone lines and TV jacks in the right places.
  • Change Locks
    Though many people don’t bother with this precaution it is extremely advisable to do so — you probably know very little about the seller and even less about anyone to whom they may have given a key.
  • Deal with Any Problems
    If you discover any problems with the home after you move in, stay calm. Have the problem checked out and documented by a qualified professional, and then consult with your attorney – the seller may be liable for any deficiencies that were not disclosed to the purchaser.
  • Finish the Paperwork
    Store your purchase and closing documentation where you can easily find them at tax time (or whenever else they are required). Complete any paperwork required by local schools (if you have children who are enrolling). Don’t forget to change your driver’s license, automobile registration, and voter registration, if necessary. Lastly, confirm that the deed was correctly filed with the appropriate authorities.