Moving Guide - The Babon Group - Real Estate Naples, Bonita Springs, Estero, Fort Myers, Marco Island, Fort Myers Beach and Southwest Florida.

The Babon Group’s Step-By-Step Moving Guide

Many people find moving overwhelming. They forget important steps that can cause more stress at an already stressful time. We’ve put together a timeline to assist you in your move from beginning to end.

Six Weeks Before Your Move. . .

If you have children enrolled in school, arrange a transfer of their school records.
Research new schools in your new community. www.theschoolreport.com is a good resource.
Notify your insurance companies of your move so they can update their files.
Begin a “Move File” and keep ALL of your receipts related to the move including packing materials and moving companies. Many of the costs incurred with a move may be TAX DEDUCTIBLE. Check with your accountant to see what you can deduct.

Four Weeks Before Your Move. . .

Research and choose a moving company or rental truck company that you plan on using and give them tentative pick-up and delivery dates.
If you are moving to a new city, be sure to ask your doctor, dentist, attorney and other providers for referrals and any necessary records you will need.
If you have pets, schedule a check-up and be sure to get copies of all their records and possibly a referral of a veterinarian in your new community.
Set dates with your landlords and real estate agents if necessary.

Two Weeks Before Your Move. . .

Schedule the disconnect dates with your local utility companies and cable company.
Notify new utility companies and cable company of the connect dates in your new home.
Drain all lawn mowers and other power equipment of gasoline and oil – moving companies will not transport them if they are full.
Cancel newspaper delivery and trash pick-up effective on your move date.

One Week Before Your Move. . .

Clean out the refrigerator and defrost the freezer..
Have your car serviced if you will be driving it a long distance.
Confirm all of the connect dates at your new address.
Fill out all paperwork at your local post office to ensure that your mail will be forwarded to your new address.
Transfer or close your checking account if necessary.
Be sure to get all items from your safe or deposit box if necessary.
Pack a “Travel Bag” that you will take with you including bathroom essentials, address book, checkbook, change of clothes, directions, and any necessary medications you will need.

Packing For The Move. . .

Make sure to remove any loose fittings from appliances and pack separately and securely.
Tie down or tape all doors and drawers on furniture so they will not open during the move and potentially cause damage.
Carefully wrap any items that you don’t want scratched or broken. Using blankets, curtains, sheets, or other textiles saves you from having to pack them separately.
Once boxed, be sure to label EVERYTHING. This will save you time and make it much easier when you are ready to unpack in your new home.
Don’t forget about your pets. Moving is also overwhelming for your animals. Try and make the move as calm and comfortable for them as well.

Moving Day. . .

Plan to spend the entire day with the movers.
Make sure to carry any valuables or family heirlooms with you.
Right before the movers leave make sure to do a walk-thru to insure that everything has been collected and nothing was overlooked or left behind. Check all drawers and closets and ensure all windows and doors are locked.

When You Arrive At Your New Home. . .

When the movers arrive check all boxes for any external damage. If damage is found, check the contents immediately before the movers leave. It will be difficult to file a claim later should damage be found.
Plug in all large appliances before furniture is moved in and blocks outlets.
Check for emergency numbers in your new area such as the police and fire department.
Check with the post office and to see if any mail is being held for you.
Make sure to register your cars as soon as possible.
Register to vote in your new area

With some simple planning your move will be less stressful on you and your family. If you should need any local assistance, don’t forget that the Babon Group is here to help in any way possible.

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