How Do I Prepare to Move to a New State?

HOW DO I PREPARE TO MOVE TO A NEW STATE?

Moving is a lot of work, even if you are just moving across town. But moving from one city to another, and especially one state to another, can be downright overwhelming. Read on to see all my tips for moving to a new city or a new state.

Before You Start Your Move to a New City or State

Before you choose a new place to live, research the cities you are considering.
1. See how the various schools in the area rank.
2. Speak with family members and friends who have lived in or visited the cities you are considering moving to. What are their thoughts on the pros and cons of that location?
3. Look into the cost of living to determine if you are moving to a place that is more expensive and how that compares to your expected income. Think of state and local income tax differences, sales tax differences, and property tax rate differences.
4. Consider the cost of moving. Will you hire professional movers or move everything yourself? Will you sell most of your possessions and buy new furniture for your new home? If you are transferring with work, will your employer cover your moving expenses?

Once You have Selected Your New City and State

Once you know where you are moving, dive into the details of the city you have chosen.
1. Talk to a local real estate professional, like me, to determine what neighborhoods will be the best fit for you and your family.
​2. Consider things like the age of the community, community amenities, walkability, schools, and convenience - both for your commute to work and for the distance to shopping, dining, restaurants, hospitals, and other places you'll go regularly.
3. Set money aside for unexpected expenses. Even if you take everything from your current home to your new home, things like window treatments and shower curtains may be different, and items like cleaning supplies and fresh groceries will most likely be needed when you arrive. You also want to be prepared for things like mileage overage surcharges, fluctuating gas prices, dining out while on the road, and possibly hotel rooms while traveling to your new home.

During Your Move to Your New City and State

Get your home and yourself ready for your arrival.
1. Set up your utilities. You don't want to arrive at your new home only to find that there's no water, electricity, or gas.
2. Take essentials in the car or plane with you to your new home. Things like clothing, toiletries, and cleaning cloths will certainly be needed soon after your arrival at your new home. Don't forget your kids' favorite toys! For things like toilet paper, tissues, cleaning supplies, and other perishables, either take them with you or purchase them when you arrive.

Once You Move To Your New City

Get to know the community, and make sure pertinent people know where you have moved.
1. Introduce yourself to your new neighbors.
2. Set up appointments with new medical professionals.
​3. Inform the post office of your new address, and make sure places like banks, credit card companies, etc. have your new address.
4. Make sure you know important information like when trash runs and how to access your community's amenities. Find out about your new area's potential natural disasters and make sure you are prepared for them.
5. Get your new driver license and vehicle registration.
6. Join groups to help meet new people. Search Meetup for groups like book clubs, cycling clubs, or whatever else you are into.
7. Visit local restaurants, coffee shops, and area attractions.
8. Send post cards with pictures of local attractions to your friends and family, updating them with your new address.

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Moving to a new place can be exciting, but it can also feel nerve-wracking. Hopefully these tips will help make your move to a new state less stressful and more fun!