Preparation is Key for a Successful Move

You’ve done it! You’ve successfully closed on your condo. Time to start planning your move, right? Sure, except you’re going to be stressed out of your mind because you waited until the last minute. Since loan funding typically doesn’t take long, you probably already have the keys to your new condo. And who wants to waste time planning a move when they could already be moving in?

Just like moving into an apartment or a single-family home, preparation is key. The earlier you start, the less stressed you’ll be, the smoother everything will come together, and the faster the process will go when the big day comes.

So, first things first: make a binder for important notes and details. In that binder, you’ll want to include a moving checklist. Here’s one to get you started. Also keep itineraries, moving estimates and invoices, travel arrangements, and any other important information pertaining to the move.

And above all — keep up with it. Don’t let yourself get sidetracked or forget to check something off the list. Staying on top of things means less work ahead of you than behind you.

Step-by-Step Guide for Moving Into Your Condo

Two months prior: Take a look at what you own and identify things you can sell, donate, or throw away. Also, start eating up perishable foods. If your diet or tastes require certain foods, make sure you use up what you buy, so you don’t have to worry about packing it up. This is also a good time to start researching moving companies if you’ll be using one. Get estimates from at least three.

One month out: Pick a moving company and secure their services. Gather moving supplies (check Craigslist, Freecycle.org, or U-Haul Customer Connect for free boxes!) and contact your current utility providers to cancel services or set up transfers. Also, contact any new utility service providers to set up service and schedule any required installations. If you are moving from far away, make sure your vehicle is tuned up and ready for the drive.

One to two weeks out: Change your address with the USPS and confirm the moving date with your movers. You definitely want them showing up on moving day! You can start packing now, too — particularly valuables. Remember to group similar items together and by room, and to label boxes with great detail, so you know what’s what. As rooms get packed up, clean them thoroughly.

On moving day: Eat a healthy breakfast, so you have plenty of energy! Remember to be flexible. Situations may arise, but handle each one at a time. Remember to have some essentials handy in case things take longer than expected — extra clothes, hygienic supplies, etc. And when you’re all done, throw an epic housewarming party. Invite friends, family, and even neighbors if you’re comfortable doing so.

Done Moving into Your Condo? Pay It Forward

Remember to tip your movers for their hard work. A 15–20% tip should work well. If your family and friends helped you move, consider giving them some cash or covering meals for the day. Be there for them as best you can when they need help moving in the future.

Once your furniture is all set up, and everything is where it’s supposed to be, consider giving away your boxes and moving supplies. List them on Craigslist or, even better, offer them up on Facebook. People will definitely take you up on your offer, particularly since they know you.

Your new home is waiting. Start your condo search now.