Moving is a big deal, even if you’re just relocating down the road. However, when you’re making the long haul out of state, the idea of getting settled might seem a bit out of reach. But, it doesn’t have to, and there are plenty of ways that you can feel right at home in a flash.
Today, Shannon Cutler Real Estate shares some resources to help make that upcoming long-distance move a little easier.
Look Ahead
One of the biggest mistakes that people make before moving to a new area is not getting familiar with things like real estate taxes and the cost of living. However, this crucial step can help you determine how much you can afford and in what neighborhood. Further, because getting settled into your new home takes organization, you’ll benefit from keeping a folder handy that has all of the information you need on everything from the mortgage approval process to the schools in the area.
Get Organized
Once you know where you are going and how much it’s going to cost you, you can then get started organizing your home and belongings to make your move as seamless as possible. HGTV suggests first making a checklist. In this, you’ll want to include handling your utilities, receipts, and schedules. Make sure you give yourself enough time to complete all your tasks, and avoid rushing whenever possible. Trying to do too much at the same time can cause you to feel overwhelmed and frustrated, which can quickly upset your plans.
Packing is another area where it pays to be organized. Start by sorting and purging everything you don’t need. Clothes that are two sizes too small? Toss them in the donation bin. You can also have a yard sale to help you make some money on household goods, electronics, clothing, and small appliances.
When you’re left with nothing other than what you need – remember, you have to pay to move everything, so the more you get rid of, the less expensive your move will be – keep organization in mind here as well. One of the simplest tricks to doing this is to color code boxes. This doesn’t have to be anything super well thought out, and Big Man’s Moving notes that simply designating a specific color to each room will go a long way toward keeping you on track. If you still have plenty of time before the move, you can rent a portable storage unit to hold the things you don’t need now but will take with you. This is especially helpful if you have to get your current home ready for the market.
Other Tips
● Change your address at the post office.
● Enroll your children in their designated school, private school, or home school program.
● Scout healthcare providers, grocery stores, auto mechanics, and other services you’re likely to need.
● Introduce yourself to the neighbors – they want to meet you.
● Transfer your gym or other group memberships.
● Change your license and registration as soon as possible.
● Visit the local park or neighborhood playground so the kids will have a chance to meet their future classmates.
● Moving with a pet? Pets Welcome recommends researching pet control and licensing ordinances and having an interstate health certificate ready.
● Have fun. There’s no doubt that you’re going to be under a tremendous amount of stress during the move, but don’t forget to smile, laugh, and see the unique attractions along the way.
Moving is what you make of it. But, when you’re moving across state lines, getting yourself organized and prepared will help you make it a pleasant and memorable experience. From understanding how taxes might affect your budget to color coding each room, the above advice will help you get settled in before you know it.
Realtor Shannon Cutler of Shannon Cutler Real Estate is passionate about real estate and helping people find their perfect piece of paradise here on Vancouver Island. Team up with Shannon today by calling (250) 248-0896!
Written by: Danny Knight
