Home Buying Chapter 4

Chapter 4. Moving into Your New Home

Now that you have a new home, here are some tips for making your move into it go smoothly.

• Arrange for service for the various utilities: telephone, water/sewer, electricity, gas, trash, cable/satellite, broadband internet, etc.
• Change your address. MoversGuide from the US Postal Service allows you to change your address online including magazines.
• Plan for moving the heavy stuff. Decide if you want to do it yourself with help from family and friends or if you want to use a moving company.
  
  When looking for a mover, ask family, friends and co-workers for recommendations. Movers are licensed by the state Department of Transportation, Public Utilities Commission or Bureau of Consumer Affairs. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau.

Planning any remodeling before you move in?

If you are planning to make any changes to your new home before you move in—even something as “simple” as having it painted throughout—you may wish to check out the tips and resources in the StraightTalk Home Owner’s Guide.

Additional moving resources

Protect Your Move from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has various information on moving such as: Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move and Ready to Move?—Tips for a Successful Interstate Move.

8 Red Flags to Look for When Hiring a Moving Company from AARP provides a list of warning signs to avoid scams or shoddy service.

Prepared for Corning Credit Union by Remar Sutton & Associates, July 2004. Reviewed and updated May 2007. All rights reserved.