| Moving Help
From CENTURY 21.com-
Step 1:
|
It all starts with planning and organizing. Like any big
project, you need to plan the work and then work the plan.
|
| 1. |
Purchase a special notebook to record information about your
move. Also print out our detailed Moving Checklist to help organize your move. |
 |
| 2. |
Purchase moving supplies: tape, markers,
scissors, pocketknife, newspaper, blankets, moving pads, plastic storage bins,
rope and a hand truck. Free boxes can usually be obtained at a local
supermarket, but consider purchasing wardrobe boxes for moving
clothes. |
|
| 3. |
Have a garage sale to clear out unwanted items
and plan accordingly. Consider donating unwanted items. |
|
| 4. |
Keep a detailed record of all moving expenses.
Your costs may be tax deductible depending on the reasons for your
move. |
 |
| 5. |
Create a floor plan of the new house for
reference during packing and on moving day. The CENTURY 21® Home Planner
can help. |
|
| 6. |
Make back-ups of computer files and determine how
you will move this delicate equipment. |
Step 2:
When you move there are many people you need to contact. Make sure to check
with your local CENTURY 21® Real Estate Professional - he or she may be able to
provide referrals through the CENTURY 21® ConnectionsSM
program.
Here is the essential call list:
| 1. |
Hire a reputable mover or rent a moving truck. Be sure to check
with the Better Business Bureau, get estimates, purchase moving insurance and
get referrals or references. |
|
| 2. |
Two weeks before moving day, contact your telephone, electric,
gas, cable/satellite, refuse and water companies to set a specific date when
service will be discontinued. Verify this date with your real estate
professional as well. |
|
| 3. |
Contact utilities in your new town about service start dates,
including Internet & long distance telephone services. |
|
| 4. |
Notify healthcare professionals (doctors, dentists,
veterinarians) of your move and ask for referrals and record
transfers. |
|
| 5. |
Register children for school and ask for school records to be
transferred. |
|
| 6. |
Notify lawn service, cleaning and security companies when
service should be terminated. |
|
| 7. |
Tell clubs, churches and organizations of your move. And if
applicable, see if membership fees can be partially refunded. |
|
| 8. |
Advise the post office, publications and correspondents of
change of address and date of move. |
|
| 9. |
Check your homeowner's insurance and make arrangements for new
coverage. |
|
| 10. |
If you are moving to a new state, see if you will need new car
insurance. |
|
| 11. |
Pick up items from your dry
cleaners. |
Step 3:
Putting your entire life into a few dozen boxes can be overwhelming. Try
these tips for a smoother move:
| 1. |
Keep track of all your valuables using our Inventory Worksheet to help organize all the
items you are moving. |
|
| 2. |
Refer to our Packing Tips for the
essentials on how to pack all the items in your home. |
|
| 3. |
Use suitcases to their full potential. Fill them with clothes
or other items for the move. |
|
| 4. |
Create an "Open First" box with all the things you need upon
arrival (medications, toiletries, linens, first aid kit, garbage bags, phone,
light bulbs, flashlight, phone books, towels, food for pets, a leash, etc.) Make
sure it is the last item packed so it will be easy to retrieve. Also make sure
that tools are handy for reassembling beds and other items. |
|
| 5. |
Create special boxes for children to open upon first arrival.
Include photos, stuffed animals, blanket, radio, CDs, etc. (Visit CENTURY
21® Smooth Moves for more tips on moving with
children.) |
|
| 6. |
As you pack, put aside and label different house related keys
you come across to give the new homeowners. |
Step 4:
It can be a hectic 24 hours, but there are some things you can do to make it
easier.
| 1. |
Have tools handy for breaking down beds and
appliances. |
|
| 2. |
Move valuables (jewelry, legal documents, family photos &
collections) yourself - don't send them with the moving company. Make sure you
have a complete Home Inventory of all your possessions.
|
|
| 3. |
If you are using a professional mover, check the inventory list
and make sure you agree with the condition of items. Get a copy of the list for
your records. |
|
| 4. |
Give every room a final once over. Don't forget to check the
basement, yards, attic, garage and closets. |
|
| 5. |
Turn off the water heater and lower the
thermostat. |
|
| 6. |
Get the name of the driver and give him your contact
information. Also review directions to the new. |
|
| 7. |
Have the final payment for the movers and money for a tip (if
satisfied with the job, about $20/mover is
recommended.) |
|
