The Most Commonly Asked Questions About Moving Home

Last Updated on October 18, 2023 by Steal the Style

The prospect of moving to an entirely new city or state can be equal parts exciting and nerve-wracking. With so many logistics involved – from finding the right neighborhood to hiring movers – questions and uncertainty inevitably arise when planning a big move. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions people have when relocating to a new home in a new town.

How Much Should I Budget For Moving Expenses?

Moving costs add up quickly between transportation, storage, deposits, fees, and incidentals. On average, expect to budget $1000-$1500 for moving a 1-2 bedroom home a few hundred miles. Long-distance moves will land on the higher end. Reduce costs by only moving essentials, doing packing yourself, and securing discounts. Have a cushion for surprise expenses.

When Should I Start Looking At Houses or Apartments?

To allow sufficient time for touring options, get pre-approved, and avoid last-minute stress, start your housing search 2-3 months ahead of move-in target dates. If relocating for a job, inquire about relocation assistance or temporary corporate housing. Schedule time for in-person visits to view short-listed rentals or listings. Don’t wait until the last minute.

How Can I Research Properties In A Different City?

The Internet makes researching remotely easier than ever. Realtor.com and Zillow let you view photos, amenities, maps and more on listings in your destination city. Virtual tours via video walkthroughs provide additional visibility. Once narrowed down, driving communities, and viewing top contenders in person seals the deal. If you’re looking for apartments to rent in Springfield, MO, for example, you’re going to want to see a range of the different types of properties available. Rent. allows you to browse a wide range of Springfield apartments and they have resources to help you learn more and streamline the whole process. Visit their website to find out more.

Should I Use A Realtor In The New City?

Partnering with an experienced local real estate agent provides huge advantages in identifying suitable homes and navigating a new market. Realtors access listings before the general public, coordinate viewings, negotiate offers, handle paperwork, and advise based on deep community insights. Well worth the typical 3% buyer’s agent commission, a knowledgeable realtor smooths the entire process.

What Unexpected Costs Might I Face?

Beyond basic moving transportation, anticipate expenses like connection fees for utilities or internet, deposits for housing and services, one-month overlapping rent if timing necessitates, address change fees, and storage costs if downsizing. If buying, remember closing costs and property taxes. Painting and small home repairs add up quickly for buyers too. Have a contingency fund.

How Do I Choose The Right Mover?

Start researching movers about 2 months before the target move dates. Get quotes from 5+ companies to compare pricing for the same services. Read reviews carefully, verifying they have the necessary licensing and insurance. Meet to discuss logistics. Choose based on responsiveness, transparency of quotes, experience with long-distance moves, and overall professionalism.

How Do I Arrange Utilities In A New City?

Call new utility companies ahead of move-in to schedule transfer of services like power, gas, water, sewage, and trash collection. Contact internet and cable TV providers to set installation appointments. Taking ownership of services proactively prevents move-in delays waiting on companies.

What’s The Easiest Way To Update My Address?

Updating accounts with new address information feels daunting. Ease the hassle by using the USPS official change of address form to forward mail automatically from old to new address. This single update reaches many national providers. Additionally notify banks, doctors, insurers, and local service providers directly with new info.

How Do I Get My Prescriptions Transferred?

Contact your current pharmacy a month before moving to request they transfer active prescriptions to a pharmacy in your new hometown. Provide name, address, birth date, insurance, medication names and dosages. Follow up with the new pharmacy to confirm they received the electronic transfer and have your updated insurance on file, so you stay covered.

What Paperwork Should I Keep Handy During My Move?

Keep any documents related to your old home sale and new home purchase accessible, like inspection reports, disclosures, warranties, and manuals for reference. Also keep handy confirmation forms from movers, proof of deposits and payments to service companies, and any inventory lists you create while packing and unpacking.

Who Should I Tips For Helping Me Move?

Tipping movers, whether professionally hired or just generous friends, is customary in acknowledgement of their significant physical efforts in handling your relocation. Budget 5-10% of total moving fees as tips for professional movers. For friends volunteering their time, provide snacks, drinks, and cash tips and reciprocate by helping them someday.

How Do I Stay Organized With Everything Happening?

Remaining focused when packing an entire home and simultaneously arranging a new one feels overwhelming. You need to look after your mental health during this stressful time. Break all required tasks into segmented checklists – housing, utilities, medical care, subscriptions, cleaning and so on. Assign deadlines and share with family to track progress. Cross off accomplishments to maintain motivation.

How Do I Arrange to Transport My Vehicle?

If driving a distance across states, have your car professionally serviced and inspect tires beforehand. Precisely follow a mapped route and allow 3-5 days driving time. If vehicle shipping, hire an insured auto transport broker to manage door-to-door service. Confirm dates and details in writing. Remove personal items and disable toll devices beforehand.

How Do I Update My Driver’s License?

Legally you must transfer your driver’s license and vehicle registration within 30 days of moving to a new state. Search online for your nearest DMV to schedule an appointment. Bring the required proof of identity and residency documents. In most cases, you simply retake your photo and swap to a license issued by your new home state.

Preparation is key to any major move running smoothly. Knowing what to expect and having a plan reduces stress. With great organization and these common questions answered you will be equipped to handle your upcoming relocation with ease.