How to Organize Your Move Like a Pro

Yay! You bought a home! This is one of the most exciting milestones of your life, especially if this is your first home! To keep up the excitement and hold down the stress you’ll need to get your move organized. Here are my best tips for a smooth move. 

SWITCH YOUR UTILITIES

There’s nothing worse than getting to your new home and realizing you don’t have any power. Trust me, I’ve been there. Be sure to check what utilities you need, it can be different from county to county, and arrange the switch of your utilities or set up your new ones. Utilities to check on:

• Gas
• Electric
• Water
• Trash
• Cable/Internet
• Parking (if you live in the city)

ARRANGE YOUR MOVERS

It can be tempting to try to rent a U-Haul and move yourself with a group of friends, especially if you are moving from an apartment to your first home. If you are like most home buyers though your friends have probably helped you move enough times in college that pizza and beer no longer seem like fair forms of payment. Consider hiring professional movers; most will come in, pack up your items, arrange them in the truck, then unpack them once at your new home. This takes the stress off you and any potential spouse or helpers and lets you focus on other important moving tasks, like where your couch should go.  

MAKE YOUR MOVE-IN BAG

Everyone thinks of the items they need for packing - boxes, bubble wrap, tape, Sharpies - but not everyone plans for the unpacking. Make a separate bag that is filled with the items you’ll need to properly unpack - boxcutter, glass/surface cleaner, paper towels, trash bags, bottled water, etc.

BONUS TIP:

Making a move to the city? If you live in Richmond, VA you can call the city and request No Parking signs you can post on the street to hold several spaces for your moving truck. I would bet you can do something similar in other cities or counties by calling your local city hall.  

FREEBIE!

I couldn’t let you get started packing without a freebie! Download my Box Tracker to help keep track of your boxes throughout your move.  

Happy Hunting!