Avoid feeling overwhelmed during your big moveuse this realtor-curated checklist to keep track of moving day to-dos.
If youre working with a realtor, ask for advice or a tailored checklist to get it right.
Heres everything that realtors say needs to get done before, during, and after the big day.
Credit:CARSON DOWNING
Get Organized
First, work backwards from the scheduled moving date.
If you have 30 days, break your move down week by week to avoid last-minute chaos."
Have an open conversation about the move.
Prepare children (of all ages) mentally for what is about to happen.
Label boxes with fragile items so they are transported carefully, and number the boxes to account for everything.
Change the address on any identification cards, drivers licenses, and banking cards.
Ask neighbors to collect and pass along any mail that gets delivered between address changes.
Also, dont forget about the utilities.
This change includes Wi-Fi, electricity, gas, and TV streaming services.
Its best to give two days advance notice and call back if disruptions persist.
Start early to ensure everything gets done before nightfall.
Divide Tasks
Teamwork makes the dream work.
The same strategy applies for moves without hired movers.
Ensure fragile and important items are handled and transported properly.
Stay Fueled
Amidst the busyness, its easy to forget to take breaks, eat, and drink water.
But staying fueledespecially for moves in the hot summer weatheris crucial.
Its a busy day, and you need all hands on deck, says Harvey.
Working with Movers
8.
Double-check the arrival time, costs, and services included with the movers, says Greer.
But it is best to have a team of people available to supervise.
Have one person at the new home to guide and another at the original home to facilitate.
Have the person at the new home unlock and bring up the doors for the movers.
Again, ensure all fragile and priority items are handled with care during loading and unloading.
Have two other people check behind to check that nothing is left.
There is almost always something left in the bottom oven drawer, Harvey says.
Do a Final Walk-Through
Double- and triple-check that everything has been moved and the home is empty.
Get somebody else to retrace your steps and do a walk-through so nothing is missed.
No matter how tired you are after a big move, cleaning up is the right thing to do.
Leave Behind Important Items
Dont accidentally take your old keys with you to the new home.
Leave the instruction manuals for appliances and home systems in a drawer for the new owners.
Lock Up
Secure the home to double-check that doors and windows are locked, Greer says.
Closing up the home is especially important for new owners who arent moving in for a while.
Leave the keys in a lock box or with your real estate agent to ensure a smooth transition.
There are a few steps to make the transition easier.
Confirm that water, electricity, and other utilities are working, says Greer.
Test out appliances, toilets, faucets, and light switches, too.
Take photos if you see something amiss during your light inspection.
Talk to your realtor if major issues arise.
), saysScott Cosby, realtor with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Metro Brokers in Atlanta, Georgia.
Put pads on the table and chair legs.
Unpack Essentials First
Dont attempt to unpack everything the minute you walk in.
Unpack essentials like toiletries, bedding, and kitchenware first, Greer says.
This makes everything a little more functional while settling in on the first night.
Ideally, boxes should be placed in the rooms that will house them permanently.
Work your way through the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom first.
Then, move on to living spaces.
Get everything unpacked at the new home as soon as possible, says Harvey.
Try unpacking one room to near completion first.
At least that will ensure you have one space to retreat to relax.
Enjoy the New Neighborhood
Remember to relax long enough to enjoy your new home.
Go for a walk to check out the new area andmeet new neighbors.
Explore the neighborhood, locating nearby grocery stores, pharmacies, and emergency services, says Greer.
