Navigating National Homeownership Month: Your Must-Have Checklist for Moving Success
Ready, set, move! As we kick off National Homeownership Month, your home, your mortgage, and those cardboard boxes piling up in the garage are probably on your mind. Whether you're embarking on a cross-country adventure or simply moving down the block, having a moving checklist will help you stay organized. From donating unwanted items to labeling your boxes, say goodbye to stress as we guide you through the process. Ready to get packing?
1. Plan and prepare
The first thing on your moving checklist should be planning ahead and getting organized. Will you hire a professional moving company or DIY it? Consider factors like the distance of the move, your budget, and the logistics. It’s best to call the movers or book a truck well in advance.
2. Declutter and donate
Before you start taping up boxes, set aside time to declutter and donate what you don’t need. Go through your house room by room and decide what items you want to keep, donate, or throw out. Consider holding a garage sale to make a little extra money off unwanted items or donate them to local charities – either way, you’re lightening the load. Ultimately, this will help you cut through the clutter and pack more efficiently.
3. Pack smart
When it comes to packing like a pro, efficiency is key. Start early, and tackle one room at a time. Keep a marker handy and label each box as you go, making a note of the contents and the room it belongs to. Make sure to secure fragile items with bubble wrap or packing paper. Start packing non-essentials early on, and when it gets down to the wire, pack an essentials bag with clothes, keys, toiletries, chargers, and more. This will make unpacking less stressful, ensuring you have the necessities close at hand.
Additionally, set aside important financial documents such as loan agreements, mortgage statements, and other banking-related documents. Keep them in a secure folder or envelope so you'll have easy access to necessary financial docs during the transition. Also remember to keep personal documents like your social security cards, birth certificates, and passports safe by storing them in a locked box or folder that you personally carry. Better safe than sorry!
4. Streamline your setup
In the midst of hustle and bustle and packing worries, there’s one thing many relocators forget to do: transfer their utilities and subscriptions. Smoothly transition into your new home by taking care of your home services and subscriptions before the move. Reach out to your utility providers to set up essential services like electricity, water, gas, and internet. And don’t forget to cancel the old ones! Also remember to update your address with subscription services, meal delivery services, online retailers, and others to ensure you keep receiving your favorite deliveries without the hassle.
5. Keep your finances in check
Moving takes more than just packing boxes and changing addresses – you also need to keep your finances in check. Start by notifying your credit card companies and loan providers about your move, ensuring that your address is up to date. And don't forget to inform Origin Bank about your new address! Reach out to our customer service or visit a local banking center to update your account information and streamline any correspondence. And if you have a mortgage, inform your lender about your move and any necessary changes. This will help prevent disruptions in communication or misrouted financial documents. By planning ahead, you'll create peace of mind and a solid financial foundation as you settle into your new home.
Moving to a new home is the first chapter of a new adventure. At Origin Bank, we know that the financial aspects of homeownership can sometimes be overwhelming, especially during a big move. Whether you have questions about transferring your mortgage, updating your account information, or exploring financial options that align with your new circumstances, the Origin Bank team is ready to assist you. Contact Origin's Trusted Advisors today or visit our online financial resources page to learn more.