Moving To Another State Checklist

Are you moving to another state and don't know where to start?  Here is a checklist that might help:

1.  Find a Realtor
Contact a local realtor  (or me) to help you find an agent in your new location.  By doing this, your referring agent will:

• Find an agent to suit your personality
• Find an agent who is ethical, knowledgeable, and experienced 
• Find an agent who knows the area
• Find an agent who specializes in the niche you are interested in ie: patio homes, neighborhood, seniors, condo's, first time home buyer, etc

2.  Secure Your Living Arrangements

You should never move without having a home to go to first.  If you can't visit the state you are moving to, do so online and with your realtor.  It's very important you thoroughly research the cost of living, the safety and culture of the neighborhood as well as realistic expectations.

3.  Contact Utility Companies

Contact your service providers early, and let them know you want to transfer your utilities to a new address.  Schedule a date, preferably the day after you move in, for installation or activation.

Having internet, TV, and a security system will greatly help you ease into your new environment.

4.  Change Your Mailing Address - Before You Move

You'll want to change your address with the Post Office before you leave, so your financial records and important documents aren't being delivered to your old address.

• Immediately start forwarding your mail if no one is at your new address
• You can rent a P.O. Box in your new location

5.  Pack the Essentials

With the high cost of moving, it's best to save money by packing items you know are essential and valuable to you.  When packing, remember to:

• Label boxes by room instead of listing what is inside 
• Create a video for your inventory
• Clean out the refrigerator
• Pack important documents and identification cards to keep with you

6.  Moving Day

You will need some cash and essentials for moving day.  

When you move everything into your new house, you might need a little time to unwind before you start unpacking.  Therefore, having a day's worth of essential items in an overnight back will benefit you.

7.  Establish Residency for Legal Reasons

Once you've moved in, you'll need to establish legal domicile for tax and voting purposes.  Every state has different rules and requirements for residency, but most states ask that you live in the state for at least 6 months.   Other things you'll be expected to have to establish residency are:

• A real street address, not a P.O. Box
• Relinquished residency in your previous state
• Bank account in the new state
• Important documents transferred to the new address
• Taxes paid in the new state

8.  Update Your Driver's License and Vehicle Registration

We all know how much of a hassle the Motor Vehicle Agency can be. To avoid long lines, schedule a time on or around your move date.

Bring necessary documents to apply for a new state driver's license, such as your current license, proof of residency, and social security card.  Certain states have different requirements so check local DMV's website for more information.

In addition to transferring your license, you must also update your vehicle's title, registration, and license plates.  Once transferring the appropriate documents for your vehicle, you must also have it inspected in your new state.  Finally, check that your auto insurance is registered in your new state.

There is so much to do when you move.  I hope this helped you and if you need a good Realtor in the area you are moving to, please reach out to me.  I'm happy to help you and be your Real Estate Resource.