Moving into a new home is one of the most exciting times in your life! So exciting, that sometimes it’s easy to forget everything you need to do in order to get settled. I’ve compiled a list of things to do after your move to make sure the transition to your new home is as stress-free as possible. If you use this list to guide you, you won’t have to worry about any loose ends to keep you from enjoying your new home.

1.CHECK MAJOR APPLIANCES

It’s a good idea to check all the appliances to ensure everything is still in working order after the move. Make sure nothing was broken during the move or stopped working suddenly. Look at things such as your stove, dishwasher, washer and dryer, refrigerator, and microwave. If you brought any appliances yourself and you used movers, you’ll want to do this with the movers still present, since their insurance companies give a limited timeframe for when you can make a claim.

2.CHECK ALL OF YOUR BOXES & FURNITURE

Examine all of your boxes and furniture to make sure everything arrived and made it undamaged as soon as possible after the move. If you notice something is missing a month later, it may be too late to file a claim with the moving company. Even if you don’t plan on unpacking everything as soon as you move in, at least complete a quick review and inventory of everything you brought to protect yourself and your belongings.

3.SET UP UTILITIES

Did you remember to set up your utilities before moving in? There’s nothing more frustrating than moving into your new home only to realize the lights don’t work or you can’t take a hot shower after moving because there’s no water. Make sure you’ve contacted all of the necessary utility companies to have everything turned on in time for your move.

4.REGISTER TO VOTE

It’s so easy to forget about this until the next big election rolls around and by then it’s too late to register in time to participate. I can’t tell you how many people I know who forget to do this and then drive all the way back to their old polling location so they can vote. You can start the process by going to this web site (https://vote.gov/)  or the board of elections in your new county to make sure you’re ready once election day rolls around.

5. FORWARD YOUR MAIL

Have you updated your address from all the people you’ll be expecting to get mail from? Like your bank, friends, family, and services you still pay for after your move. Check with the post office to have things redirected to your new address while you work to update your info with everyone else.  You can do it in person or online here: https://moversguide.usps.com/mgo/disclaimer?referral=MG82

6. CONNECT TO YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

Join sites like Nextdoor.com or get a subscription to your local magazine/newspaper to stay in touch with what’s going on in your neighborhood. Many towns, neighborhoods and subdivisions also have very active community groups on social media sites like Facebook so be sure to join those as well.  You can find out about events, meetings or concerns relating to your community.

7.FIND THE RIGHT PROFESSIONALS

If you’re moving far from your last home, you’ll want to have the right connections. Find a new doctor, dentist, vet, handyman, plumber, etc. Add them into a contact book that’s easily accessible.  You can even ask for referrals in the neighborhood groups I mentioned above.  Your real estate agent is also a great resource for referrals to various professionals as well.

Moving into a new home is such an exhilarating time. It’s easy to forget some of the basics in the process.  I hope this list helps you to have the best moving experience possible.  If you have any questions or want to share some of your own tips, feel free to comment below or email me at Rachel@RachelKayla.com.  I’m always happy to be of service.