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Becoming a homeowner is an amazing experience, but moving into that new home can seem like a daunting process, even though it’s an exciting time in your life.
From researching moving companies to preparing for life in your new home, there’s a never-ending list of things to do when moving into a house for the first time.
Here are some quick tips to remember as you start your new home journey:
Donate Unused Items
Before you take the time to pack up all your belongings, go through everything to see what you use and don’t use on a regular basis. Sort carefully, as you don’t want to bring any items that are just going take up space and collect dust in your new home. These can include furniture, household items you no longer need, antiques, toys, collectibles and more. If the items in your donation pile are still in decent shape, you can donate them to your local ReStore. It’s tax deductible, and we will pick them up for free!
When you donate to the ReStore, it benefits everyone. We help you by taking your unwanted items, and you help us by supporting Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity’s mission to provide decent, affordable homes to limited-income individuals. Together, we’re also helping the environment by reducing waste in landfills.
Choose a Trusted Moving Company
Whatever you do, don’t overlook moving company reviews when making your checklist. Before hiring a moving company, be sure to do your homework and choose a mover that is licensed, insured and trustworthy. You can find one by checking the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and the FMCSA’s lookup system.
Transferring the Utilities
A few weeks prior to moving, contact your utility service providers to let them know about your move. While you have them on the phone, go ahead and schedule your disconnect and connect dates for gas and electric. Additionally, you should contact your cable and internet service provider, as well as your security system provider to schedule an installation date after the move.
Forwarding the Mail
Don’t forget to forward your snail mail before a move. Otherwise you could end up missing out on important bills, letters and packages. To forward your mail before the move, go to USPS.com and choose the date you wish to begin receiving mail at your new address.
Pack an Essentials Bag
Chances are good that you’re not going to want to sift through hundreds of boxes for pajamas and a toothbrush. For this reason, don’t forget to pack an essentials bag for your first night or week in your new home. The suitcase should include a few changes of clothes, PJs, toiletries, medications, and baby and pet items.
Unpack at Your Pace
Once the moving boxes arrive in your new home, it can feel overwhelming to see the work laid out before you. Take a breath and make a game plan. Make sure all the boxes are in the correct rooms and then tackle one room at a time. Bit by bit, your new home will begin to take shape and with every new picture hung on the wall, it will feel more and more like home. Don’t hesitate to invite friends and family over to help out.
