Are you relocating? New job? Moving closer to family?

Whatever the reason, get excited! Having a good plan will reduce your stress level and make the transition smoother.  Here are some tips to help you prepare for your move.

Three Months Before

• Research movers    Get at least 2-3 written prices on moving.  Book early because moving companies schedule in advance.  If you wait to the last minute, you may not find a company at all.  Get pricing in writing.  Ask about storage.  Ask what happens if the movers cannot take things off the truck into your new home - Some companies can leave items on the truck for an additional fee.  Don’t be afraid to ask for local references. 
• Get rid of stuff!    Moving is a great opportunity to purge things you just don’t need or use anymore.  If you haven’t used or worn something for 2 years, why pay to move it.  This process will make you feel refreshed and recharged.
• Stay organized    Keep all your receipts, records, service provider contacts names, numbers, emails all in one place.  Moving company? Utilities to turn off and on, schools, etc.

Six Weeks Before

• Measurements   Check room dimensions at your new home, think about how you will fit each piece in your new home to be sure it will fit.  Measure the front and back door width to make sure large pieces like sofas, wall units and even the refrigerator will fit.  
• Order supplies    Order moving boxes and other supplies such as tape, Bubble Wrap, and permanent markers. Don't forget to order specialty containers, such as dish barrels or wardrobe boxes.
• Get rid of stuff (Phase 2!)   You have already gone through and got rid of some old clothes and maybe some furniture you don’t need.  Now start looking at perishables in the freezer or in storage.  Time to eat those old tater tots hiding in the back of the freezer. Consider donating!

One Month Before

• Separate valuables   Identify any items such as jewelry and important files that you will want to personally bring to your new home.
• Do a change of address    Go to your local post office and fill out a change-of-address form, or do it online at usps.gov. Just in case there is a delay with the USPS, ask a close neighbor to look out for mail after you've moved. Leave them a large, pre-addressed envelope that they can put your mail in.  (A gift card for them might be a nice touch as well.)
• Notify important parties     Be sure to notify your credit cards, banks, insurance companies and utilities that you are moving.  I would recommend covering your bases by calling AND emailing the customer service department of each. 

Two Weeks Before

• Label   Clearly label and number each box with its contents and the room it's destined for. This will make moving in much easier.  This will also help you prioritize what boxes to unpack first and last. 
• Get a tune-up     Take your car to a garage and ask the mechanic to consider what services might be needed if you're driving a long distance or pulling extra weight.
• Refill prescriptions    Stock up on prescriptions you'll need during the next couple of weeks.

A Few Days Before

• Defrost the freezer    If your refrigerator is moving with you, make sure to empty, clean, and defrost it at least 24 hours before moving day.
• Double-check the details    Reconfirm the moving company's arrival time and other specifics and make sure you have prepared exact, written directions to your new home for the staff. Include contact information, such as your cell phone number.
• Plan for the payment    If you haven't already arranged to pay your mover with a credit card, get a money order, cashier's check, or cash for payment and tip. If the staff has done a good job, 10 to 15 percent of the total fee is a good tip. If your move was especially difficult, you might tip each mover up to $100. Don't forget that cold drinks are always appreciated.

Moving Day

• Verify   Make sure that the moving truck that shows up is from the company you hired: The USDOT number painted on its side should match the number on the estimate you were given. Scams are not unheard-of.  Ask a neighbor to briefly stop over to keep an eye on things too.
• Take inventory   Before the movers leave, sign the bill of lading/inventory list, and keep a copy.

We manage hundreds of induvial homes in New Jersey and PA.  Many of our owners owned a home here and then relocated because of work or family.  

If you are considering keeping your home as a smart long-term investment and renting it out, contact us today.  

We oversee every aspect of your home. We identify great tenants, complete photo inspections, comply with township requirements, collect rent, and keep careful records of any repairs.  We have offices in NJ and PA.