A lot of planning and coordination is needed to move out of state. Do you want to go through all of it without a qualified agent by your side? Researching some planning strategies on Google isn’t going to cut it when you’re relocating hundreds or even thousands of miles away. You’ll want someone who has access to a network of realtor connections, a deep understanding of you and your priorities, and all the other bits of insight that makes a great realtor. In short, you want someone who’s qualified. The longer version? Let’s take a deep dive into what you can do to prepare.
1. Call a Trusted Real Estate Professional… Me.
You have questions. A lot of questions. A Realtor can help you sort through the seemingly endless paperwork and organizational challenges of moving out of state. But how are you supposed to find a trusted Realtor when you’re hundreds, if not thousands, of miles from your final destination? Throughout the past 17 years, I have worked hard to create a vast referral network of qualified agents who can help you wherever you land. I will pair you with someone who will be a perfect match for you as you make the transition to your new home. This will be important, as real estate agents are there to help you find your perfect home, but another benefit of calling one is the access to important information. Moving companies, insurance brokers, financial institutions, and more are important to have as much knowledge of as possible. I will be only a phone call away to answer the questions you haven’t even had time to think about yet!
2. Create a Moving Binder
You’ll need to have a designated place for all the paperwork you’ll be collecting over the next few weeks. Find a binder and fill it with pocket folders that you can label to make sure everything you need is in one spot. You can keep all paperwork in the same binder, or have one binder for the old location and one for the new. Include:
- Copies of loan documents
- Utilities set up information
- Necessary permits
- Checklists for daily things such as canceling the paper, getting pet records from the vet, changing your address at the post office, or notifying your pharmacy about a change in location
- Important dates such as realtor appointments and scheduled times for your moving company
- Budget and receipts
- School information
- Anything else you need to stay organized and on track
3. Plan Ahead
Moving is already stressful; don’t make it worse by waiting until the last minute to iron out the details of the move itself. Plan things like:
- Contact movers and lock them down on dates and rates
- If your move requires an overnight stay, book your lodgings in advance
- Purchase plane tickets well ahead of the move
- Give utilities a cut-off date, and arrange for new utilities to be connected at your new location
- Start decluttering in advance
- Begin packing seldom-used items
- Plan for transporting cars if you’re not driving them in the move
- Empty your safe deposit boxes so you don’t forget their contents
4. Let it Go
It’s time to inventory your bigger ticket items, such as heavy furniture. Consider selling large possessions and purchasing new items for your recently purchased house. Moving companies base pricing on weight and space, so you may do better to sell items and save on the transportation costs by replacing rather than relocating.
5. Create a Spreadsheet Containing All Necessary Changes of Address
From your car insurance to each credit card, you’ll need to change your address…many, many times. Create a spreadsheet containing all your credit card companies (don’t include account numbers on this sheet), your cell phone carrier, car insurance, voter registration, IRS, social security, magazine subscriptions, and any other entity that will need to be notified of a change of address. As you make each update, check it off your spreadsheet.
6. Save Money on the Move
Did you know that moving companies have off-seasons? The winter months aren’t as busy for these services, meaning you can save money by booking with them when the weather turns colder. You can also save money on the move by packing your own items. Make sure to read all the fine print when booking a moving company; many of them charge an upfront price and tack on a per-mile charge when you settle the bill. Surprises aren’t always welcome!
Let Me Help you Take the Stress out of Your Move
Whether you’re moving across town, or across the nation, I’m here to help you take the stress and worry away. Give me a call and I’ll be happy to talk about any concerns you have about moving, from finding your next home to finding the perfect moving company. Contact me today!
