First Time Home Buyers Moving Guide

Buying a home is an exciting milestone, marking a significant step towards independence and stability. However, the process can be strenuous, especially for first-time homebuyers. From selecting the right property to navigating the complexities of financing and paperwork, numerous considerations come into play.

Yet, the journey does not end with the purchase itself. Moving into a new home presents its own set of challenges and decisions. We understand the unique needs and questions that arise during this crucial time and aim to provide you with the knowledge and guidance necessary to make informed decisions.

Whether you are feeling apprehensive or excited about your first home purchase, Atlas Van Lines is here to provide the guidance and support you need. With our expert advice, you can confidently navigate the homebuying process and embark on this new chapter of your life with ease.

What Should I Expect During the Moving Process?

Starting the moving process can feel overwhelming, but with a well-structured plan, it becomes manageable and less stressful. Whether you are embarking on a cross-country moving journey or simply relocating a few streets away, the following steps will help you kickstart your moving journey and guide you through the process.

Create a Timeline

Creating a timeline for your upcoming move involves consideration of various factors to ensure a well-organized and efficient relocation process. When establishing your moving timeline, examine factors like:

• Key Dates - Start by identifying important dates, such as your move-out and move-in dates. Look at things like lease agreements, closing dates, and any time-sensitive commitments related to your current and new residences.
• Consider Notice Periods - If you are renting, it is important to allow yourself enough time to inform your landlord or property management company about your move-out date in advance. Provide the required notice period established in your contract and complete necessary paperwork as per your lease agreement.
• Special Events – If your move is time-sensitive, such as a move for a job, or a family event, take these factors into consideration when creating a timeline.

Everyone will have a unique timeline depending on the size of the move, the distance they are moving from or to, and personal preferences. It is important to be flexible and adapt the timeline as needed while ensuring you allocate enough time for each step. Try to allow a few extra days of leeway for potential unforeseen circumstances that could come up during the moving process.

Determine Your Moving Needs

Determining your moving needs is an essential step in planning a successful relocation. By assessing your requirements, you can make informed decisions and tailor your moving process accordingly. Determining your moving needs may involve:

• Size and Distance - Consider the size of your move and the distance to your new location. Are you moving from a studio apartment or a large family home? Will you be relocating locally or across the country? Understanding the scale of your move will help you assess the resources and costs involved.
• Timeframe - Determine your desired moving timeframe. Are you working with a strict deadline, or do you have flexibility? Review any time constraints related to lease agreements, closing dates, or personal commitments. This will influence your planning and scheduling decisions.
• Special Considerations - Identify any special circumstances or specific needs related to your move. Do you have valuable or fragile items that require extra care? Do you have vehicles that need to be moved? Special circumstances can influence both timeline and cost, so it is important to be realistic and thorough to avoid obstacles during the moving process.
• Moving Services – Full-service, professional moving companies, like Atlas, provide various additional moving services. When determining your moving needs, browse through some offerings to get an idea of what services you are interested in using during your move. Would you benefit from packing and unpacking services? Do you need temporary storage solutions?

By determining your moving needs, you can tailor your plans and resources to match your specific circumstances. Remember to reassess your needs periodically to ensure your plans remain aligned with any changing circumstances.

Set a Budget

When planning a move, it is important to estimate the costs involved and set a budget to ensure financial preparedness. By accurately estimating your move and establishing a budget, you can avoid unexpected expenses and have a clear understanding of the financial aspects involved.

Evaluate your financial availability and allocate funds accordingly, accounting for any potential contingencies. By setting a budget, you can make informed decisions, prioritize expenses, and have an organized moving experience. Regularly reassess and adjust your budget as needed to stay on track throughout the moving process.

Get Your Free Moving Quote

A moving quote provides a detailed estimate of expenses, helping you plan your budget, compare prices, and make informed decisions about your moving options. Atlas provides free moving quotes through our online form.

Once you fill out the form, a representative will provide you with your free quote and walk you through the costs as well as answering any questions you have.

Schedule Your Relocation

Once you are comfortable with your budget, moving costs from your professional moving company, and your moving dates, you will need to sign your moving contract agreeing to the costs, scheduled dates, locations, and logistics of your move.

By creating a detailed schedule, you can effectively manage your time, stay organized, and minimize potential disruptions. Some things to review for scheduling your relocation could be:

• Your Ideal Moving Date - Start by identifying the most suitable moving date for your specific circumstances. Consider factors such as lease or closing dates, work commitments, family obligations, and any other time-sensitive circumstances. Aim to choose a date that provides extra time for preparation.
• Seasonal Factors - Be mindful of seasonal factors that may impact your move. Some seasons, like summer, are generally busier for the moving industry, so you may need to plan and schedule well in advance. Additionally, poor weather conditions during certain times of the year may affect travel and the logistics of your move.
• Travel and Arrival Time - If you are moving long-distance or to a new city, factor in travel time and plan for transportation and accommodation as necessary. Look into the duration of the journey and any stops or overnight stays required which could extend your arrival time.

It is crucial to be prepared for unexpected changes or delays and build in some buffer time to account for obstacles. By scheduling your relocation thoughtfully and allowing yourself sufficient time for each step, you will be well-prepared to navigate the moving process.

Prepare for Your Movers

Although a moving company will take care of all the needs for your move, there are several steps you can take to save money, time, and hassle during the relocation process, such as:

• Decluttering and Organizing Your Belongings - Go through each room and sort items into categories: keep, donate, sell, or discard. This not only reduces the number of things you need to move but also allows you to start fresh in your new space. Remember, the less there is to pack, the quicker and more cost-effective the moving process will be.
• Inventory Your Items - This will help you keep track of your items during the move and ensure that everything arrives safely at your new home. Take photos or make videos of valuable items and fragile pieces for documentation purposes.
• Create a "Do Not Pack" Box - Designate a box or suitcase where you'll keep essential items you will need immediate access to upon arrival at your new home. This can include toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, or work equipment. Clearly label this box and inform the movers not to pack it.
• Make Arrangements for Pets and Children - Moving day can be chaotic and overwhelming, especially for pets and young children. Consider arranging for a pet sitter or daycare for your furry friends and ask a family member or friend to look after your children. This will ensure their safety and well-being while the movers are working.
• Take Care of Basic Maintenance Tasks - Before the movers arrive, take care of basic maintenance tasks in your current home, such as turning off utilities. Also, consider taking final meter readings for gas, water, and electricity for billing purposes.

Thorough planning and organization will go a long way in making the moving day stress-free for you and your movers.

Determine Remaining Tasks

When it comes to moving into or out of a home, there are several important tasks that homeowners need to think ahead on. One step in this process is determining the remaining tasks that need to be completed before moving day. By creating a checklist, you can manage your time and resources. Some common tasks to complete when moving in or out of a home are:

• Utilities - Contact your utility providers to arrange for the disconnection or transfer of services. This includes electricity, water, gas, and any other relevant utilities. Schedule the disconnection for your current home on the day after you move out to avoid being without essential services during the moving process. Similarly, arrange to have utilities connected in your new home before your scheduled move-in date.
• Change of Address - Update your address with the necessary institutions, including the post office, banks, insurance providers, and any other organizations that need your updated contact information. Fill out a change-of-address form with the postal service or update your address online. Additionally, notify your friends, family, and any subscriptions or memberships you have.
• Cleaning and Repairs - Before moving out of your current home or moving into a new one, it is important to ensure cleanliness and address any necessary repairs. Clean the house thoroughly, including floors, windows, and appliances. Fix any damages, such as holes in the walls or broken fixtures, to leave the property in good condition or start fresh in your new home.
• Final Walk-Through - If you are moving out of a rental property, schedule a final walk-through with your landlord or property manager. This allows you to document the condition of the property and address any outstanding issues. Similarly, if you are moving into a new home, consider conducting a walk-through to verify that everything is in order before moving in.
• Home Security - Prioritize the security of both your current and new homes. Change the locks in your new home or consider rekeying them for added security. If applicable, inform your security system provider about your move and make any necessary updates to ensure uninterrupted service.

By determining these remaining tasks and creating a checklist, you can stay organized and ensure that everything is properly taken care of before moving day.

Move with Ease with Atlas Van Lines

Move with ease and peace of mind by choosing Atlas Van Lines as your trusted moving partner. With a legacy of over 60 years in the industry, Atlas Van Lines is renowned for our professionalism, reliability, and exceptional customer service.

Our experienced team of movers is dedicated to handling every aspect of your move, from professional packing services to loading and transportation. With a worldwide network of agents and resources, Atlas Van Lines ensures that your belongings are handled with care and delivered to your new home safely and efficiently. Experience the Atlas Van Lines difference.

Do you have questions about your move? Consider visiting our FAQs or contact an Atlas local moving company today.