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The Essential Moving Checklist: A Timeline for Relocating to Houston

September 25, 2024
Essential Checklist for Relocating

When it comes to moving to a new city, you may know what you need to do… but do you know when to do it? 

Moving can be stressful enough, but throw in moving to a new city on top of that… Well, it can get a little overwhelming to say the least. There’s so much that has to get done before you move... on one hand, you don’t want to be left scrambling at the last minute to finish it all. On the other hand, you don’t want to be without internet for an entire month!

So, when relocating to a new city, what tasks should be done when?

We broke down all the essential steps you should take when deciding to move somewhere new so you can create the best relocation plan for you and your family. Are you moving to a new state? Download our printable moving checklist!

Three Months Before You Move to a New City

  • Sell or donate items you don't need or want anymore. Goodwill is one reputable place you can donate to—you can find a store near you here.
  • Start packing the items you don’t need everyday (like seasonal decor and out-of-season clothes).
  • Schedule tours of the new city to find the best area for you.
  • Have your local real estate agent ready to sell your current home.

Two Months Before You Move to a New City

  • If you’re currently renting a home, let your landlord know your plans to move out soon.
  • Create a budget for all moving expenses—include things like movers, supplies, and even gas!
  • Get quotes for moving companies, moving vans, or storage units (if you plan on using any of them). If you’re in the greater Houston area, check out A Better Tripp Moving & Storage to help with your move.
  • Compare interest rates between lenders and shop for the best home loan for your budget. If you need help finding one, we contact us to connect with one of our preferred lenders!

Two Weeks Before You Move to a New City

  • Schedule moving dates with a moving company (if you plan on using one).
  • Schedule your utility end dates for your current home, and the start dates for your new home.
  • Select a homeowner’s insurance policy that best fits your lifestyle and needs.
  • Finalize your home loan and lender selection.
  • Schedule mail-forwarding services to your new address. Luckily, this is an easy process you can do online here.

One Week Before You Move to a New City

  • Pack your suitcase with a few changes of clothes, toiletries, medicines, etc.
  • Finish packing up the rest of your belongings.
  • Confirm the closing dates on your current home and your new home.
  • Confirm your utility start & end dates are all correct.
  • Confirm your mortgage lender’s approval & wiring instructions.
  • Schedule a final walkthrough for both your current home and your new home.
  • Confirm (again) your moving dates with the moving company.

Moving Day

  • Thoroughly clean your current home. (It’s a good idea to pay for a cleaning service for this!)
  • Complete the final walkthrough of your current home and your new home.
  • Close on your new home & pick up your keys!
  • Meet your movers at your new home (if using a moving company) and move in!

One Week After Moving to a New City

  • Meet your new neighbors.
  • Recycle your packing & moving materials. (Especially cardboard boxes!)
  • Check the fire & carbon monoxide detectors and fix any problems immediately.
  • Share your new address with friends & family.
  • Update your billing address on any subscriptions & credit cards.
  • Enjoy your new city!

Moving to Houston? Let us make it smooth & easy! Check out our complete relocation guide for FREE here.

 

Alexis Feezel article byline headshot

Alexis Feezel is a results-oriented Marketing Coordinator responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing all promotional strategies and activities to effectively market clients & listings and maximize sales.

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