Moving In

Moving In

Congratulations! It's done - you're a homeowner.

It's finally moving day! Depending upon your arrangements with
the seller, you will be able to move in either right after the
closing or the next day.

Be Prepared for the Movers

Make sure the moving van has room to park as well as easy
access to both houses. Movers expect payment upon delivery,
so you'll also need to have a certified check and/or cash
available to settle the bill. Many movers accept credit cards as
well, so inquire in advance if this is your chosen payment
method. Tipping is customary - usually about $20 per mover -
though this is obviously highly variable with the length and
difficulty of the move.

Work With the Movers

Be available to answer questions about packing order and fragile
items. Point out any items you intend to move yourself, and
keep these things separated from those to be handled by the
movers. Make sure the movers have clear directions to the new
house as well as a phone number to reach someone if they get
lost or have any problems. Make sure someone remains at your
old home until the movers are packed and ready to leave.

Do a Final Walkthrough

Make one last inspection of your old home to insure that
nothing has been forgotten and left behind. It's OK to have a
few minutes to yourself if you are feeling emotional at this
point.

Arrange for Mail to be Forwarded

You'll actually want to make these arrangements a week or two
before moving day. Go to your old post office and arrange for
mail to be forwarded to your new address (if you had a P.O. box
you may want to retain it for a period of time). Send out
change of address cards with your new location.

Get Settled into Your New Home

Target the most important areas of your new home and unpack
for these rooms first. Arrange to have someone available at the
house during the first few days to coordinate installations and
deliveries. Have written instructions prepared for installers to
make sure you get phone lines and TV jacks in the right places.
If you have any improvement projects planned you can start
scheduling the work if you haven't done so already.

Change the Locks

Though many people don't bother with this precaution it is
extremely advisable to do so - you probably know very little
about the seller and even less about anyone to whom they may
have given a key.

Deal with Any Problems

If you discover any problems with the home after you move in,
stay calm. Have the problem checked out and documented by a
qualified professional, then consult with your attorney - the
seller may be liable for any deficiencies that were not disclosed
to the purchaser.

Finish the Paperwork

Store your purchase and closing documentation where you can
easily find them at tax time (or whenever else they are
required). Complete any paperwork required by local schools (if
you have children who are enrolling). Don't forget to change
your driver's license, automobile registration, and voter
registration, if necessary. Lastly, confirm that the deed was
correctly filed with the appropriate authorities.