Moving can be an overwhelming process. Whether you’re moving down the street or to the other side of the country, you’ll need more than just a new house.
You may also be in search of a new job, new schools, new doctors and dentists — the list goes on. More than anything, you’ll want to know how to settle in and make your new location a place you can call home.
But with all the decluttering, packing, and tasks related to selling your previous residence, where do you even start?
This guide outlines seven essential steps to help you prepare for your move and get settled in your new community. Follow along and turn the hassle of relocating into an exciting adventure ahead.
1. Put Together a List of Essential Information
If you’re not yet familiar with the area you’re moving to, it’s time to do some research.
Look up housing prices, demographics, schools, and crime statistics. If you plan on using public transportation, look up those routes, or if you plan on getting around with a car, look up major streets and interstates in the area.
It’s also a good idea to look up seasonal weather patterns so you know what to expect. Depending on which state you’re going to call home, you may need to invest in a new winter coat or snag a few pairs of shorts.
Additionally, you may want to search for online forums and Facebook Groups relevant to your new area. These can be a great place to find information, ask questions, and just observe local attitudes and outlooks.
If you’re moving for a job or the military, ask your new employer if they offer relocation assistance. Some employers will cover all or a portion of your moving costs.
Considering a move to Washington? This blog has everything you need to know about relocating to the Evergreen State.
2. Identify Your Ideal Neighborhoods
Once you’ve gained a better idea about your new area, you can begin to identify the neighborhoods that align with your needs and interests. Consider factors like:
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Budget
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Commute time
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Quality of schools
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Crime rate
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Walkability
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Access to public transportation
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Proximity to shopping and restaurants
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Demographics
If you get a chance, go visit the different areas in person. If that doesn’t give you a better idea of whether the neighborhood is a good fit for you and your family, get in touch with a local real estate agent. They’ll be able to give you information that you most often can’t find online and will help you narrow down your options.
Browse some of our exceptional communities in Puyallup, Gig Harbor, and Tacoma/Frederickson:
3. Choose Your New Home
Once you’ve narrowed down your list of preferred neighborhoods, it’s time to start looking for a home. Pick out a real estate agent that seems trustworthy to you, and start the home searching process. Your real estate agent can send you available property listings that fit your wants and needs.
Before you begin this search, it’s a good idea to create a list of absolute must-haves for your new home. How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need? How important is an updated kitchen or a large outdoor space? Get as detailed as you can, and give the list to your agent.
If you already own a home, you'll need to decide whether to sell it or rent it out. A real estate agent can assist you in exploring these options by analyzing the current market conditions. They can also help determine the equity in your current home, giving you a clear idea of what your budget is for purchasing a new property.
In addition, your agent can give you guidance on timing your sale and purchase. While some buyers can qualify for and manage two mortgages simultaneously, many cannot. A skilled agent can help you navigate the various options and determine the best strategy for your situation.
4. Get Ready for Moving Day
After getting everything in order, it’s time to get prepared emotionally. We often overlook this part of the moving process as we’re so focused on packing up and getting ready to relocate.
This is especially important if you have kids. Communicate to them that you’ll all be moving and, if possible, take them on a tour of your new home and neighborhood. This can help alleviate some of the uncertainty and anxiety surrounding the transition.
Allow yourself ample time to pack your belongings. Before you begin, gather necessary supplies like boxes, tape, and bubble wrap. Start with non-essential items like off-season clothes or holiday decorations, and sort everything into four main categories:
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Things to keep
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Things to throw out
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Things to sell
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Things to donate
As you’re packing, make sure to label the top and sides of each box with helpful information, including the contents of the box, what room it belongs in, and any other special instructions. Keep a master inventory list so you can refer back to it if something goes missing.
If you plan on using a moving company, start researching your options. Compare prices with several moving companies and see if they can do a price match. Make sure you’re working with a reputable company — check for online reviews and ask your family and friends whether they have any recommendations.
If you’re driving to your new home, plan your route and, if necessary, arrange for overnight accommodations along the way. If you plan on having your vehicles shipped to your new address, schedule that well in advance and then make travel arrangements for yourself, your family, and your pets.
Finally, if you're leaving behind friends or family, schedule farewell gatherings before you depart. The days leading up to a move can be extremely busy, so set aside time in advance for proper goodbyes.
5. Get Ready to Move In
One thing many people forget to arrange is for the utilities to be turned on before or on the day of your arrival. Nobody wants to move into their new home and not have running water or electricity. While you’re at it, schedule a shut-off date for your current utilities, as well.
While most homes should be professionally cleaned by the seller/agent, you may want to consider having the house professionally cleaned again before your move-in date.
If you bought a home that didn’t include appliances, purchase them ahead of time and arrange for delivery shortly after you arrive.
Don’t forget to look up the requirements for your updated driver’s license and vehicle registration in your new area. Make sure to also contact your insurance company to update your policy, or you can simply do it online.
6. Let the Unpacking Begin
You’ve made it — you’re now about to settle into your new home.
From the “essentials” boxes that you packed up, get out the essentials that you’ll need for the first few nights. This will help make the unpacking process easier for you, without having to rush.
Make sure to unpack your children’s and your pet’s belongings first, as they’re the ones most likely to have anxiety during this process. Get their rooms and areas set up as best as you can — with things like toys or other familiar items they use on a daily basis — so they have a sense of normalcy during this time. Then, you can move on to the rest of the house.
Make a list of items and tasks that you need to complete as you unpack. But even though you might be eager to get everything finished, it’s important to give yourself the grace to take a break here and there.
Explore the neighborhood, grab a coffee, go for a bite to eat, and then resume the unpacking. This will make the entire process much more enjoyable and less stressful.
7. Become a Part of Your New Community
Studies show that moving can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression. People who have recently moved tend to be isolated socially, more stressed, and less likely to participate in exercise and hobbies. However, there are ways to combat these negative effects.
First, get out and explore. It’s not uncommon for recent movers to spend less time on physical activities and more time on their computers, which has been proven to lead to feelings of depression and loneliness. Instead, get out of your house and explore your new area. And if you travel on foot, you’ll gain the advantages of fresh air and exercise.
Combat feelings of isolation by making an effort to meet people in your new community. Find a local interest group, take a class, join a place of worship, or volunteer for a cause. Don’t wait for friends to come knocking on your door. Instead, go out and find them.
Finally, be a good neighbor. Make an effort to introduce yourself to your new neighbors, invite them over for coffee or dinner, and offer assistance when they need it. Once you’ve developed friendships and a support system within your new neighborhood, it will truly start to feel like home.
A Smooth Transition Into Your New Home
Although there are a lot of things to consider when you’re moving to a new area, a little preparation goes a long way. The seven steps outlined above give you a concrete action plan to help you start the new chapter of your life with ease. But remember, no matter how clear the steps are, it’s okay to ask for help along the process.
At Rush Residential, we understand how overwhelming the moving process can be. We’re here to make sure your relocation experience is more of an adventure than a hassle. If you have any questions or need guidance during your move, reach out to our team.
Want to find the perfect Puget Sound home for you and your family? Explore our incredible Rush Communities.