We all know that moving into a new home can be exciting and challenging at the same time. After all, you have a lot of things to do, from packing your items to finding a reliable moving company.
We also know your excitement level about moving to a new home is at its peak right now, but there are a few things to remember which will make the process smoother and less stressful. Keep on reading this article to find out the most important things you must do before moving into your new paradise.
1) Make a Plan
Before you start the moving process, it’s important to make a plan. This includes deciding on a moving date, creating a budget, and creating a packing timeline.
The last thing you want is to be running around like a chicken with its head cut off on a moving day. So, sit down with a cup of coffee or tea (or wine, we won’t judge) and make a plan. It will make the whole process so much easier.
2) Research Your Neighborhood
Before you move, it’s important to research the neighborhood you’ll be living in. Look up local schools, parks, restaurants, and shops to get a feel for the area. You can even use online tools like Google Maps to explore the streets and get a sense of what the area looks like.
Also, don’t forget to check out the crime rates and safety of the area as well. After all, you don’t want to be moving into a high-crime area, do you? Unless you’re an undercover cop, then you might find it exciting.
3) Hire a Reliable Moving Company
No matter how good your DIY skills are, moving all your stuff from one place to another isn’t a DIY thing. This is where packers and movers come into play.
When it comes to moving, professional movers are your best friend. They are equipped with the right tools and technologies which are required to streamline the moving process. But remember, don’t hire the first mover you communicate with. Instead, research the best moving companies near your location and hire the one which fits your budget.
Look for companies that are licensed and insured, and make sure to read reviews from past customers. Another good option is to get word-of-mouth recommendations from neighbors and friends who have moved recently. Chances are if they had a good experience with a reputable company – that is going to be your best bet. You don’t want to end up with movers who are more interested in stealing your stuff than moving it, right?
4) Get the Best Pest Control Services
Nobody wants to move into a new home with pests. Imagine moving into a new place and seeing pests rolling around here and there.
So, before you move in, it’s a good idea to have a pest control service come and inspect the property. The effective Terminix pest control methods can identify any potential issues and help you get rid of any pests before you move in. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, right?
Also, you don’t want to discover that your new home is infested with bedbugs after unpacking everything.
5) Change Your Address and Notify Important Parties
Changing your address is an important step that you don’t want to forget. You’ll need to update your address with your bank, insurance companies, and any other important parties.
You can do this online or in person, and don’t forget to notify your friends and family as well. It’s always fun to receive a “we’ve moved” card in the mail, right?
6) Declutter and Donate Unwanted Items
I never seem to be able to declutter until we are moving. If the kids aren’t hiding things they want to keep, hubby is being a packrat and storing odds and ends in the shed or the garage, or the attic. He knows “out of sight out of mind” is the rule for me so if I don’t see it – I won’t make him get rid of it … until we move!
Moving is the perfect time to declutter your home and get rid of any unwanted items. Don’t wait until the last minute to start going through your belongings. Instead, start early and decide what you want to keep, donate, or sell.
You can even have a garage sale to make some extra cash before your move. And who knows, you might end up finding some long-lost treasures that you thought were gone forever.
7) Pack Your “First Night” Bag
When you arrive at your new home, the last thing you want to do is go digging through boxes to find your toothbrush or pajamas. This is one of those items I learned the hard way when we moved to our current home. We moved in the day before Thanksgiving because I was bound and determined we were going to have our first Thanksgiving meal in our new home. Unfortunately for me, while I remembered all the necessary items I would need to cook the meal – I didn’t have anything else handy and ready that we would need for our first night and day in the new home!
So, pack a “first-night” box with all the essentials you’ll need for your first night in your new home. This can include toiletries, a change of clothes, and any medications you need.
You’ll thank yourself later when you can easily find everything you need without having to unpack everything on the first day.
Summing Up
Shifting to a new home requires some planning and preparation. By following the tips mentioned above, you’ll be well on your way to a smooth and stress-free move.
And who knows, maybe you’ll even find some hidden treasures along the way. Happy moving!
