Tips for Moving to Houston

Whether you are moving from out of state or from the other side of the metro area, it is always good to be prepared before you head out with the moving truck. Even if you are moving to a new city for the best reasons — like a new job or to be close to great schools — the process can seem overwhelming. Make it easier by breaking up the move into small steps on a checklist. Here are a few suggestions to help you prepare for move to a new city:

Act Like You Live There

When you are first considering a new city, take some time to visit the area for at least a few days and get comfortable with the lifestyle. Now is the time to check out different neighborhoods to live in, what your potential commute to work might be, how close your child’s school is, and where the nearest conveniences are like grocery stores, hospitals, and gas stations.

Calculate Cost of Living

Take a few minutes to calculate your monthly expenses now and compare it to the cost of living in the new city. You may either have to cut corners to make it work or you'll be pleasantly surprised by the dollars you'll save. It's best to know how a move will impact your financial situation so you can be prepared.

Set Up Your New Home in Advance

If you are buying a new home in a new city, and you’re able to go to the closing, spend a few extra days to set up cable, internet, gas, electricity, and any services that you might need right away, like bottled water delivery. When moving day comes, you will be able to settle down right away and relax!

Spread Out the Move

Especially if you’re moving from out of state, make it easier on yourself by spreading the move out over a couple of days. For example, if you are within a day's drive of your new location, plan to load the moving truck one day, drive it the next, and unload it the following day. It will be much easier to stay focused and energized if you don't cram too many activities into one day.

Cut Off Utilities in Your Current Home

Don’t forget to alert your current utility companies that you will no longer be living at that address. Close out accounts in your name and ask the companies to shut off service on a certain date. 

File a Change of Address

Don't forget to do this! You’ll want to set up a forwarding address through the United States Postal Service to ensure that you continue to receive important mail. Be sure to also file a change of address with your credit card companies, banks, and any other important institutions.

Get Your Car from Here to There

If you’re not keen on driving long distances, there are options for getting your car to the new city. You can tow it behind the moving truck (if someone else is driving), or you can choose to ship your car cross country.  

Prepare Your Pets

Pets are people, too! To avoid stress and anxiety, make sure they have everything they need before the big move. Prepare their food, bowls, crates, blankets, beds, snacks, leash, baggies, and of course, their favorite toys. Pack all the items into one box and label it with your pet’s name, and be sure that box goes everywhere your pet goes (and not accidentally on the moving truck, for example). 

Transfer Medications

Even if you are stocked up on your medications for the move, call the pharmacy that is closest to your new home and make sure they have all your prescriptions in case you need anything in a hurry. 

Moving to a new city can be hard work, but with a lot of planning and preparation, it can be a smooth process that gets you into your new home quicker, so that you can start enjoying your new life. Keep this checklist handy and you’ll be settled in in no time! 

If you are thinking of a move to the Houston area, we can help! Contact us at 866-419-1949 to learn about new home communities in Houston.