Moving to a new southeastern Virginia home can be hectic, especially when you have a family. Planning, packing, moving, and unpacking are often overwhelming. Here are some moving hacks and packing tips to make the process go smoothly for you, the children, and the pets.
CALL AN ALL-HANDS FAMILY MEETING
Before you start packing, gather everyone for a family moving meeting. Explain the reason for the move and make sure they all understand why it’s happening. For example, if you have a new job, let them know why you took it and how it will benefit your family. Explain what amenities they can look forward to in the new house, such as a large backyard or bigger bedrooms. Present some of the move’s details, and discuss how it will impact everyone. Ask your family to share their feelings about it and explain that you’ll depend on them to help.
PLAN YOUR MOVE IN ADVANCE
Planning ahead will ensure a less stressful move. If you have children, involve them in this step so they know they are part of the entire process. You and your family can discuss the tasks that need doing and who will be doing them.
For example, if you’re going to use professional movers, research moving companies and hire them in advance. Some moving companies only perform short-distance relocations, while others work with local, long-distance, and even international relocations. Forbes recently put together a list of highly-rated, full-service moving companies that you can review for consideration.
EXPLORE THE NEW NEIGHBORHOOD
Research the new neighborhood with your family. Pin locations on a map and make a list of places and activities to check out after you move. If it’s possible before the move, explore the neighborhood like tourists, spend time in a nearby park, go to the local grocery store, visit the library, and have lunch at a local restaurant. Learn what activities are available at the recreational center. These kinds of outings will familiarize everyone with the area before you unpack in the new home. Moving with a dog? Take your pet for a walk around the area.
MAKE A CHECKLIST OF THINGS TO DO
This step is essential to ensuring a smooth process. Write or type a list of things to do one month before, two weeks before, one week before, and the day of the move. Things to include in the list are contacting the new utility and internet service, buying packing supplies, and assembling your children’s school and immunization records. A checklist is especially important if you’re relocating internationally; you’ll have to include everyone’s valid passports and other necessary paperwork on that list.
And if you’re moving with a cat or dog, make sure the list includes finding a good veterinarian in the area once you’re settled in.
ASSIGN TASKS TO FAMILY MEMBERS
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Note simple tasks you can assign to your children — getting them involved every step of the way will help keep them occupied, engaged, and looking forward to the move. Your children can be responsible for cleaning out their closets and packing their toys. To make your children feel a part of the moving team, check out Pinterest for terrific ideas on moving hacks and how to get your children involved.
ORGANIZE A MOVING SALE
A month before you move is an excellent time to clean out your entire house and eliminate things you no longer use or need. You’ll be surprised at how much stuff you managed to cram into closets and other storage spaces. Have everyone in the family separate the things they want to bring from the items they no longer want. Let them know the proceeds from the sale can go towards something the whole family wants, such as a new TV or Playstation. Moving is also a great time to upgrade and buy new appliances for the new home — spread the word among friends about your appliances for sale if you plan to do this.
PACK YOUR FAVORITE THINGS INTO A FEW BOXES
Once you get rid of everything you no longer need or want, set aside your family’s favorite things. Pack and label these boxes — from favorite toys and pajamas to shoes and bed pillows — on moving day. You may want to personally travel with these special boxes rather than put them into a moving truck. These boxes can be opened first in the new home so your children feel an immediate sense of familiarity and security.
SET UP A VISIT TO THE NEW SCHOOL
Look into your school options and discuss the new school with your children. A good resource is GreatSchools.org, which rates public, private, and charter schools in cities across the country. They also list each school’s contact information so you can set up a visit before your children’s first official day. Talk to their teachers and other school administrators. Make sure you have all the paperwork needed, including their school grades and immunization records. Ask to tour the school grounds so your children won’t be in entirely foreign surroundings on their first day.
CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS
Make a trip to your post office and request that your mail and packages be forwarded to the new address starting on a certain date. Also notify your bank, credit card company, and other businesses that send regular statements. Changing your address ahead of time will help ensure you don’t miss anything important in the mail.
CONTACT A LOCAL REAL ESTATE AGENT
If you’re looking for homes for sale in southeastern Virginia, contact Brandon Carney. He has experience, industry knowledge, and insider tips on the community in this area. He can provide insights into the local lifestyle and the real estate market in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and Chesapeake. Whether it’s buying, selling, or financing, Brandon and his team can help.
