Once you have found the perfect home and your loan application is underway, you can begin thinking about moving into your new home. Moving may seem overwhelming, but with the right guidance, it can be a breeze! Here are some terrific tips for organizing your move:
Change your information
Before you move, make sure you change over your utilities and update your address with the post office. Identify the utilities you are responsible for and call the companies to make the transfers. The further in advance you take care of this, the better – as utility companies sometimes take a few days to make the switch. To update your address, you can fill out a form online so that your mail will be forwarded to your new home.
Secure packing supplies
Packing supplies can be expensive. Many retailers receive large shipments, and the boxes end up being thrown away after they are unpacked. Try visiting a few of your local retailers to see if they have any boxes to give away. Another option for discounted moving materials is Uline, which offers a variety of moving kits and will deliver right to your doorstep.
Pack your belongings
When you begin packing, remember there are daily essentials that you should not pack. Set aside a bag as though you are going on vacation. Include toiletries and a few changes of clothes so that when you begin unpacking, you don’t have to search to find these items. The best way to stay organized is to pack one room at a time. Label the boxes and be sure to keep an accurate inventory of what is in each box. The app “Moving Van” is available through the Apple App Store and allows you to keep an accurate inventory on your phone.
Rent a truck and other moving tools
Some people prefer to have a moving company take care of everything for them. A variety of companies will provide full-service moving — and many will even pack for you at an additional cost. Click here for a directory of moving companies in your area. If you are planning to make the move yourself, you will likely need to rent a truck. Assess the number of items you will be moving to determine the size of the truck you should rent. Many rental companies will also rent dollies and hand trucks to make your move easier. Click here for a directory of truck rental companies in your area.
Clean before you move in
Before you begin moving into your new home, you will want to deep clean everything. Begin with the kitchen and bathrooms; then clean the floors, baseboards, windows, walls and fans in the other rooms. If the home is carpeted, you might want to have the carpets steam cleaned. Many companies will provide a cleaning service for you. Click here for a directory of cleaning services in your area.
Unpack
Unless you have hired movers to help you unpack, do not try to unpack everything at once. Assemble furniture and then sort boxes into their respective rooms. Unpack the essentials first and be sure to utilize closet space to keep things out of the way. It might take a few weeks to have everything unpacked and in place, but be patient — you will be ready to host a housewarming party in no time!
Use this information as a tool to start planning your move. If you need suggestions for moving companies, please don’t hesitate to ask! It is always a good idea to have a team of family and friends assembled to help make your move successful. Remember, our team is hard at work making your loan process smoothly and stress-free so that you can plan for your move.