Moving to, from or within CT? Don't Forget the Little Things

You're getting ready to move. You've thought through just about everything. Boxes? Check. Movers? Check. Labels? Check. Moving supplies? Check.

So why do you have that nagging feeling in the back of your mind that you’ve forgotten something? Maybe it’s because you, like so many of us, have neglected to transfer utilities, mail, and records – all those little things you depend on. Start dealing with these things now to help ease your move.

Transfer Utilities
Transferring utilities early will relieve a big pain point of moving. And you won’t have to use a flashlight to unpack!

What you need to remember:
·    Make a list of all your utilities – everything from electricity to cable.
·    Notify each company of your moving dates. If you’re moving out of town, you may need to find providers in your new area. It’s a good idea to leave the main utilities on for an extra day after your move-out date just in case something unexpected happens. And turn on the utilities in your new home a day early to make sure they’re up and running when you arrive.

·    Create a utilities checklist:
·    Electricity
·    Gas
·    Propane
·    Cable/satellite
·    Internet service
·    Home phone
·    Cell phone service
·    Trash pickup
·    Recycling pickup
·    Sewer
·    Water
·    Security system

Change Your Address
Sure, about 90% of the mail you get is junk. But you’ll need to change your address with the United States Postal Service for the 10% of mail that you actually want. What you need to remember:
·    Go to a post office or visit the United States Postal Service website to fill out a change of address form.
·    It usually takes about 7–10 business days for the change to take effect, so get your request in early.

Notify Others of Your Address Change
Great! You’ve filled out the change of address form. Now you just have to let people know about your new address. What you need to remember:
·    Start a list of people, magazines, organizations, and businesses you receive mail from each day.
·    Send out a handful of notices daily with your new address so you’re not overwhelmed trying to do it after moving day.

Deal With the Bank
You’ve been reserving movers, buying supplies, and starting up your utilities, so you’re probably already thinking about money. But have you thought about what to do with your bank accounts? What you need to remember:
·    Find out if your current bank has a branch near your new home. If not, open an account with a local bank there.
·    Update your online bill pay. When you move, your account information for your utilities will change. If you don’t update your online bill pay, you may end up sending money to accounts that no longer exist.
·    Pay a visit to the ATM. You’re going to need some cash to tip the movers, buy food, and pay for other incidentals.

Transfer Records
Taking the time to gather important records now can save you the pain of having to wait for your medical chart to transfer over while you’re flipping through magazines in your new doctor’s waiting room. What you need to remember:
·    Compile medical and dental records. If you’re moving to a different city or state, ask your doctors if they can refer you to a new health-care provider.
·    Arrange to have school records transferred to your children’s new school district and/or daycare.
·    Get copies of any legal and financial records you need.
·    Arrange for veterinarian records to be transferred.

You may be focused on packing, but you’re not just moving your stuff: You’re moving your life. Transferring all of life’s daily essentials is key to getting your life in your new home off to a good start.

Article submitted by Brennan Purdy of State Farm Insurance

My vision is to be an insurance professional whose actions are driven by keeping the customer's best interest as my primary goal. My staff will treat all my customers in a caring, friendly, and professional manner. My office will provide warm, efficient, and seamless services to our customers at all times. I expect my business to be comprised of knowledgeable, multiple-line customers who see my office as their first and best choice for all their insurance and financial service needs

For more information on these and other home safety tips, stop by my office or visit www.brennanpurdy.com. My office is conveniently located in downtown Bethel. 203-798-7300.                   211 Greenwood Avenue , Bethel, CT 06801

 And a note From Judy: If you have a question about buying or selling Real Estate in Fairfield County, and are in need of an Realtor to represent you, I invite you to contact me, and if you have an idea for a topic that you would like to see on The CT Realty Blog, please include it in the "Post a Comment" section link below this post. We appreciate the feedback and look forward to providing you with the best real estate content, advice and service in Fairfield County, Connecticut.