Articles and Advice

Let Your Countdown to Moving Day Begin

Use this moving day checklist after buying a house.

The countdown to moving day is one of the most exciting times when buying a house. Even though you're ready to grab the keys and get cozy in your new home, there is still plenty of work to do before, during, and after moving day.

Use this helpful moving day checklist to reference after buying a house. It will assist you in keeping both your old and new properties all squared away.

Pre-Moving Day Checklist

Eight weeks prior: Make comprehensive lists of what all needs to be done before the move is finalized. Begin sorting items into piles labeled "sell," "donate," or "garbage." Understand which documents you'll need to give to the new owner, HOA, or rental agency and which items in your contract you're responsible for before moving.
Six weeks prior: Begin making necessary repairs and decide on what steps you'll need to take to relocate your possessions. Research storage units, moving companies, and ask friends or family if they can help.
Four weeks prior: Notify all services of your pending relocation like utilities, mail, doctors' offices, vets, schools, and any subscription services. Begin packing less-frequently used items.
Three weeks prior: Continue packing, request time off work for your move, and begin addressing items in spaces like the garage, backyard, attic, and crawlspace.
Two weeks prior: Move all valuables to a secure place that is separate from your other moving boxes. Consider eating up the items in your refrigerator and pantry so you have less to move.
One week prior: Create an essentials bag for each member of your family that will contain medications, device chargers, important documents, healthcare items, and other vital items.

Moving Day Checklist

Wake up early and get to work. Your hard work in buying a house is now about to pay off; make sure you have enough time to safely and responsibly complete moving day.
If using movers, make sure that they have the physical space needed to park and move in your items. Be available to direct them to where your items should be placed. Consider providing them with donuts in the morning or pizza and water in the afternoon and evening to show your appreciation.
Complete one final walkthrough of your old property to make sure nothing is left behind. If leaving an apartment, make sure you receive written confirmation that you are no longer responsible for the property. Consider leaving a note for the new owners with any helpful neighborhood suggestions or tips.

Post-Moving Day Checklist

Secure your new home. Buying a house is a major milestone; protect it properly by replacing the locks and setting up a new security system, including smoke alarms.
Give your new home one last thorough clean. After buying a house, you're responsible for its upkeep even before you move in. Give it a quick cleaning before unpacking all of your boxes to ensure all nooks and crannies are dust and debris free.
Unpack your essentials first and put them away in their designated homes. This includes all items that you'll use on a regular or semi-regular basis like kitchen supplies, bathroom items, clothing, and must-haves.
Decorate slowly, room by room. Decorating can be overwhelming, especially when rushed. Decorate each room gradually to ensure the design meets your expectations.
Get rid of cardboard boxes quickly. Cardboard boxes clutter your home and attract bugs. As you unpack, break down the boxes and store them in the garage until recycling day.
Do a quick safety check. If you spot any new damages such as leaks, burn marks, or other potentially hazardous issues, consult your real estate agent immediately.

While buying a house is stressful enough, getting ready for moving day can be just as chaotic. Use these checklists soon after buying a house to help the relocation process run as smoothly as possible.

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Let Your Countdown to Moving Day Begin

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