4 Important To-Do’s When Relocating

Are you planning to move to a new neighborhood? It’s always exciting to make such a huge change, especially when you’re relocating to a place of your dreams. In some cases, it can be out of necessity like after securing a new job.

Whichever the reason for this change, relocation can be a very stressful process. It becomes even more overwhelming when you don’t know where to start.

For that reason, in this article, you’ll learn what you need to do to prepare you for your move, from finding professional movers to installing all essential utilities in your new house. Read on to learn more!

1. Stay on top of your finances

Relocating can easily put a dent in your savings, especially if you don’t have a preset budget. Of course, the first expenditure is the mortgage or monthly rent and other related fees the property owner requires you to pay. For those moving into a rental, it’s always recommended you include at least three months’ rent in your budget. 

With the house secured, the next thing to consider is the transportation of your items. Will you be able to do it by yourself? If not, then you’ll need to find reputable movers and book a date with them.

There are many things to consider when looking for professional movers, and the total cost should be included in your priorities. Utility installation and other subscriptions are other important things to keep in mind in your budgeting process.

2. Contact your insurance company

Another important step to take is informing your insurance company about the upcoming changes. For one, the laws governing insurance coverage may vary from one state to another.

Although it’s not a necessity to change your insurance company when changing states, this switch often makes sense both for the homeowner and from the legal point of view. 

So when should you start the process? The ideal timeframe for contacting your insurance company is at least two months before the move. Therefore, make sure you include this in your must-do tasks eight weeks prior to the big day. By the time you relocate, you should be sure your property will be insured the moment you step into that new home.

Of course, some companies have branches and sub-branches across the country. If this is the case with your coverage provider, the process will be easier. However, for other insurance agencies, you’ll have to change everything entirely and find a new provider who will be able to meet your needs.

3. Change your address

There are many ways that moving can affect your life, and one of them is the change of contact information. Updating your mailing address should also be on your list. Failing to do so when you relocate can lead to mail returned to the sender or missing mail. To avoid such issues, you must update your information within the final four to six weeks before moving out. 

The first step is to change the address on the official postal service’s website. Here, you’ll also see an option to choose when you want your mail forwarded to your new address. Depending on your state’s laws, you might get the opportunity to make this change only a month or less before moving.

In the same breath, you’ll need to update your contact information on every platform, from your business website to your social media. This will ensure that you don’t miss any important messages from your clients and friends. 

4. Familiarize yourself with the new place

The new neighborhood is probably going to be different from your current home in many ways. For one, utility providers might have varying rules in terms of monthly fees and modes of payment. To make sure that you and your family feel at home immediately, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with the neighborhood.

The best way to do this is by being open to your new neighbors. Introduce yourself to them and make new friends within this area to help you adjust.

Ask them important questions about the security of the neighborhood, blind spots in the area (if any), safe and unsafe hours, the best utility providers, and any other essential information you might want to know.

Conclusion

Moving might not be easy, but when you take care of other matters first, you’ll be able to adapt to your new home pretty quickly.

First, you’ll have to make a budget and stick to it throughout the process. Contacting your insurance company about your move is another wise thing you have to do prior to your move. And finally a few weeks before relocation, you’ll also need to change your address and familiarize yourself with the new neighborhood to avoid any frustrations.

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