Preparing For Your Move

Create Backup Plan

What will you do if your house sells faster than you expected? Do you have a house or apartment lined up? If your buyer doesn't plan to move into your home right away, maybe you can rent it back from the buyer for a month or so. It's always good to be prepared for timelines that don't match up.

Insurance

If you have to move before your house sells, make sure your insurance policy is not voided as most companies don't like to insure vacant houses.
Does your homeowner's policy cover your belongings during the move? If not, what does your moving company's insurance cover. Their basic insurance probably insures items by the pound, which isn't good enough. See what other insurance they or your agent can offer.
Consider getting an appraisal for expensive items in case they are lost or damaged during the move.

Finances

If you're selling one property and purchasing another and you need money from the sale for the purchase, talk to your mortgage company about the time frame. Northwestern Bank has programs that allow you to borrow against the sale of your home if you take out your new mortgage with them.

Long-Distance Moves

Many companies provide a relocation package. Get the details in writing. Are there any specific requirements like how far you have to move to qualify? Exactly how much of your moving expenses will be covered by the company? Will they pay for one or two house-hunting trips? Is temporary housing available while you find or prepare your new home? Does your company offer financial assistance in the purchase of a new home? Etc.
If you are flying to your new location, book your flight and arrange for the mover or someone else to ship your car. Arrange for a rental car if necessary.

Change of Address

Complete a change-of-address form at your local U.S. post office or online at www.usps.com. This gives the USPS permission to forward your first class mail for up to 12 months.
You will need to notify the following of your move:
     - friends and relatives
     - schools, churches, civic organizations, etc.
     - doctors, dentists, veterinarians, etc.
     - financial institutions and creditors

Packing

Pack breakables and valuables you don't want the movers to pack.
Give live plants away as most movers won't take them.
Dispose of flammables, paint, ammunition, chemicals and similar items. Most mover's won't take them either.

Utilities

Arrange to have your utilities turned off or transferred if you are moving locally. Our Resource page offers a comprehensive list of phone numbers for your convenience.
When having your phone disconnected, ask if they will put a forwarding number/message on your line. Most companies will do this for several months for free or for a very small fee.

Banking & Bills

Let your bank know of your pending move. At a minimum, give them your new address, possibly transfer your accounts to a local branch / affiliate bank, or close your accounts depending on your move. Keeping or establishing a new checking account prior to your moving is a very good idea. Contact Julia at Northwestern Bank to learn about FREE checking account options.
If closing out a safe-deposit box, keep its contents (important papers, jewelry, etc.) with you during the move.
Let all creditors (loans, credit cards, etc.) know of your change of address.

Movers

Reserve the Northwest Realty moving trailer!
Select a mover.
Arrange for a storage facility if you won't be moving into a new home right away after you leave your current home.
Get a cashier's check for the movers.
Review the bill of lading very carefully. Make necessary corrections before allowing the truck to leave!

Helpful Websites
For more helpful tips, we've provided some websites with checklists and more detailed packing ideas.