Moving can be overwhelming, especially when you transition from a vibrant city like Los Angeles. Once your home enters escrow, the real journey begins. With proper planning and organization, you can make this move smooth and stress-free. This guide provides a step-by-step process, ideal timelines, and valuable resources to help you navigate your relocation.
Understanding Escrow
Once you accept a buyer’s offer you enter an escrow process that lasts anywhere from 15 days to 45. The most common escrow period is 30 days.
A rare buyer will pay all cash and waive normal contingencies, but this is rare! Most buyers will spend their escrow period inspecting your home, securing a mortgage, home insurance, and other due diligence activities. Until these hurdles are cleared your deal could fall apart and you’ll need to go back on the market to get a new buyer. (read more about the ways your home sale can fall apart)
This doesn’t mean you can wait until escrow is closed to start your moving process. Here is an Ultimate Moving Guide to help you make wise and timely decisions to ensure a smooth and stressless process.
Preparing for Your Move
Initial Steps After Your Home Enters Escrow
As soon as your home enters escrow, start preparing for your move. Notify utility companies, the postal service, and other important contacts about your relocation.
Informing Essential Contacts and Services
Create a list of all organizations and individuals to inform about your move, including utility companies, banks, insurance providers, and subscriptions.
Crafting a Comprehensive Moving Checklist
A detailed moving checklist helps you stay organized and ensures no crucial steps are missed. Include tasks like packing, hiring movers, and setting up utilities in your new home.
Creating a Timeline
Ideal Timeline for the Moving Process
A typical moving timeline spans 6-8 weeks, giving you enough time to pack, hire movers, and handle any last-minute issues.
Scheduling Key Activities
Break down moving tasks into weekly segments. Start with decluttering, then move on to packing, hiring movers, and setting up utilities. (read more about decluttering)
Effective Packing Strategies
Organizing and Categorizing Belongings
Sort items into categories: keep, donate, and discard. This helps minimize clutter and makes packing more efficient.
Efficient Packing Tips and Techniques
- Use high-quality packing materials.
- Label boxes by room and contents.
- Pack heavy items in small boxes and lighter items in larger ones.
Decluttering Before the Move
Opportunity!! Start your decluttering process before you list your home for sale. Your home will look better and sell for more money and you will enjoy less stress and chaos at the last minute. Take this opportunity to get rid of items you no longer need. Donate usable items or hold a garage sale.
Selecting Professional Movers
How to Choose the Right Moving Company
Research moving companies thoroughly. Check reviews, get recommendations, and obtain multiple quotes before deciding.
Important Questions to Ask Movers
- What services do you offer?
- Are you a local or interstate mover?
- Are you licensed and insured?
- Can you provide a written estimate?
Understanding Moving Contracts and Insurance
Carefully read the moving contract and understand the terms. Ensure your belongings are adequately insured for the move.
Managing Utilities and Services
Disconnecting and Reconnecting Utilities
Schedule disconnection of utilities at your old home and connection at your new home, including electricity, gas, water, internet, and cable.
Setting Up New Services at Your New Home
Arrange for new utility services to be set up before your move-in date to ensure you have essential services upon arrival.
Troubleshooting Potential Issues
Be prepared for potential delays or problems. Keep a list of service providers handy in case you need emergency repairs or connections.
Transporting Vehicles
Options for Moving Your Car
You can drive your car to your new location or hire a vehicle transport service. Each option has its own pros and cons.
Pros and Cons of Driving vs. Shipping
Driving allows immediate access to your vehicle but can be time-consuming. Shipping is convenient but involves additional costs and logistics.
Costs and Logistics
Consider the cost of gas, accommodation, and meals if driving. For shipping, factor in transport fees and insurance.
Updating Important Documents
Changing Your Address for Documents and Subscriptions
Notify all relevant parties of your new address, including banks, credit card companies, and subscription services.
Notifying Government Agencies
Update your address with the DMV, Social Security Administration, and other government entities.
Updating Financial Institution Records
Ensure your bank accounts, credit cards, and investment accounts reflect your new address to avoid service disruptions.
Moving with Children and Pets
Tips for a Smooth Transition for Kids
- Involve your children in the moving process.
- Visit the new area with them before the move.
- Maintain routines as much as possible.
- Read more about moving with kids
Making the Move Easier for Pets
- Keep pets away from the chaos of moving day.
- Set up a comfortable space for them in the new home.
- Update their microchip and address tags.
- Read more about moving with pets
Finding New Schools and Vets
Research and enroll your children in schools ahead of time. Find a reputable veterinarian for your pets in the new area.
Settling into Your New Home
Efficient Unpacking Strategies
Start with essential items and gradually unpack the rest. Prioritize setting up the kitchen, bedrooms, and bathrooms. Pack your daily essentials in a separate and clearly labeled box. Include disposable plates, cups, utensils, towels, soap, toilet paper, a utility knife, and medications. Keep that box with you and not on the moving truck.
Setting Up Essential Services
Ensure all utilities and services are functioning properly. Set up internet, cable, and other essential services first.
Meeting Your New Neighbors
Introduce yourself to your neighbors and join neighborhood groups to integrate into the community quickly.
Exploring Your New Area
Getting Familiar with Your New Neighborhood
Take time to explore your new surroundings. Visit local parks, restaurants, and attractions to get a feel for the area.
Locating Local Amenities and Services
Find the nearest grocery stores, hospitals, and other essential services to make your transition smoother.
Joining Community Groups
Joining local clubs or organizations can help you make new friends and settle in faster. Beware of social media sites like Nextdoor Neighbor. I promise that the group in your new area is just as much of a dumpster fire as it is here. You’ll get much better information by just chatting ith the people you see out and about.
Handling Moving Stress
Coping Strategies for Relocation Stress
Practice self-care and take breaks when needed. Stay organized and don’t hesitate to ask for help.
Maintaining a Positive Outlook
Focus on the positives of your move. Embrace the new opportunities and experiences that await you.
Seeking Support When Needed
If the stress becomes overwhelming, seek support from friends, family, or professional counselors.
Helpful Resources
Useful Online Tools and Apps
Use apps like Moving Planner, Sortly, and TaskRabbit to stay organized and manage tasks efficiently.
Recommended Books and Guides
Books like “The Art of Happy Moving” by Ali Wenzke and “The Moving Survival Guide” by Martha Poage provide additional tips and insights.
Professional Services to Consider
Consider hiring professional organizers or relocation specialists to help streamline your move.
Conclusion
Moving can be challenging, but with proper planning and organization, it can also be an exciting new chapter. Follow the steps outlined in this guide to ensure a successful move from Los Angeles to your new home. Embrace the change and look forward to the new adventures that await you.
