What to Keep in Mind Before Moving into Your New Home

Settling into a new home can be, paradoxically, both busy and relaxing, as you pack and unpack boxes before finally slumping onto your new couch. With some creative thinking, you can cut back on the stress of settling into a new home and streamline those busy moments. Other than packing, of course, there are several things that you should do before moving. For example, consider hiring some professionals to help you along the way, like a moving company or a cleaning service. When conducting research on who to hire, get at least three quotes and compare prices.

Here are some simple steps you can take to reduce stress when settling into a new home:

1. List of Items in Each Box: For every box you pack, make a list of what items are in that box. For example, if you just packed a box with utensils from the kitchen, label it with a list of how many forks, plates, cups, etc. This effort will pay off when you’re unpacking things later on and looking to save time. 
2. Internet and Other Utilities: Be sure to book an appointment with internet service providers in order to set your home up with internet access. Additionally, it is important to make appointments with contractors for any repairs or renovations for utilities such as plumbing or electrical systems.
3. Clean Your Home: Even though your seller should have made sure to clean your new home before closing, it is still recommended to have your home cleaned when settling in. Hire a professional you can trust and have your home cleaned. The fresh scent of a clean home will brighten your mood as you continue to settle in.

Other important things to keep in mind when moving in:

1. Pack an Un-packing Box: Pack all your tools: screws, scissors, box-cutters, masking tape, dust cloths, glue, you name it – in one box. Packing everything you need to settle in and to unpack your other boxes will help you manage your time and work efficiently. Be sure to label this box!
2. Pack a First-Night Box: Pack items that you know you’ll need in the few days that follow after first settling in. Include items like clothing, basic toiletries, pajamas, towels, bedsheets, and other essentials. If you are a pet owner, pack a box for your pet(s) too.
3. Make a Charity Box: Consider packing a box with items that you can either sell or donate to charity. If you find yourself with an abundance of items you don’t think you’ll need, consider donating these things. Some viable charity organizations include Goodwill, Move for Hungry, and Furniture Bank Association of North America.
4. Update Your Address: Although this is the digital age, you’ll still get snail mail every now and then. It is wise to redirect all of your mail to your new address so you don’t miss anything important. Register your new address with the post office. You should also inform banks, credit card companies, and insurance companies about your change of address.
5. Register Your Vehicle: If you are moving into a new state, you’ll need to register your vehicle in the new state and then transfer your driver’s license. The deadline for registration varies from state to state (some states give 10 days to register while others give a window for 30 days).  Visit your local DMV office for further information.
6. Recycle Packing Material: Unpacking will leave you with plenty of boxes and packing materials. Some of those may in good shape to reuse, but others may not be in such good condition. Consider recycling, rather than throwing things away. Save the planet and support your local recycling center, all at the same time!

Below is a quick checklist of all above ideas. Feel free to print it out!