Moving to Northwest Florida. A 10 step guide.
Moving from one home to another is both an exciting and stressful experience. Whether you're upgrading to a bigger space or downsizing to something cozier, preparing for the move can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth transition. There’s no shortage of things to remember, from organizing your belongings to managing paperwork, but with the right steps, you can avoid feeling overwhelmed. And if you are moving to Northwest Florida be sure to keep track of your flip flops. Here’s a guide to help you get ready for a seamless move.
1. Start Early
Moving to or from Florida is a major event, and the earlier you begin planning, the smoother it will be. Start at least 4-6 weeks before your moving date. This will give you enough time to pack, organize, and handle all the necessary paperwork without rushing.
2. Create a Moving Checklist
A checklist keeps you on track during the moving process. It helps you remember important tasks such as notifying utility companies, arranging for moving services, and changing your address.
3. Declutter Your Home
Moving is a great opportunity to declutter. Go through your belongings and decide what you no longer need. Consider donating items that are still in good condition or having a yard sale to earn extra cash. The fewer items you have, the easier packing and moving will be. Pro Tip: If you are selling your home consider this step before you list your property for sale.
4. Organize Your Packing
Begin by packing non-essential items first. Label all boxes by room and content, so unpacking in your new home becomes much easier. Keep valuables, important documents, and personal essentials in a separate, accessible box.
5. Notify Relevant Parties
Make a list of all the people and organizations that need to know about your change of address. This includes your employer, bank, subscription services, and government agencies. Don’t forget to update your address for any bills, credit cards, and memberships.
6. Schedule Utility Transfers
Arrange for utility services to be disconnected at your current residence and reconnected at your new home. This includes electricity, gas, water, internet, and trash collection. Make sure these services are set up to avoid any disruption in your daily life when you move in. In Northwest Florida be sure to do a utility transfer to avoid any interruption in service.
7. Hire Professional Movers (or Rent a Truck)
Depending on your budget and the amount of stuff you need to move, decide whether you want to hire professional movers or rent a truck and do it yourself. If you opt for movers, book them well in advance, especially during peak moving seasons.
8. Take Care of Your Pets and Kids
Moving day can be chaotic, so it’s a good idea to have a plan for your children and pets. Consider asking a friend or family member to watch them for the day to keep them safe and reduce stress.
9. Do a Final Walkthrough
Before you leave your old home, do a final walkthrough to ensure nothing is left behind. Check all rooms, closets, and cabinets. Take photos of your old home to document its condition, especially if you're leaving a rental property. If you are buying a new home we recommend doing a final walk through the day before closing.
10. Unpack in Stages
Once you’ve arrived at your new home, focus on unpacking the essentials first, such as kitchenware, toiletries, and bedding. Take your time unpacking the rest to avoid unnecessary stress. If you feel stressed we would like to recommend the white sand beeches of the Emerald Coast.
10-Item Moving To-Do List:
Create a moving checklist to keep track of everything.
Declutter and decide what to donate, sell, or throw away.
Get moving supplies like boxes, tape, and bubble wrap.
Label boxes with the contents and destination room.
Arrange for professional movers or rent a moving truck.
Notify all relevant parties of your change of address.
Transfer or cancel utilities at both your old and new home.
Pack an essentials box with items you'll need right away.
Plan for children and pets on moving day.
Do a final walkthrough to make sure nothing is left behind.
Our real estate team in Northwest Florida handles Sales, Property Management and Handyman Services. From our experience selling property from Pensacola to Panama City Beach, we designed our team to provide all essential services a buyer or seller may need during and after the sale. If you are buying or selling on the Emerald Coast be sure to call us first.
