Before the Move
Are you ready?
Whenever change occurs, we must process the old to make room for the new, which presents exciting opportunities for new dreams to come true.
When you move to a new place, it’s an opportunity to evaluate the things you’ve collected over time. Take a moment to think about your attachment or connection to your possessions. If you no longer need or want something, consider getting rid of it. Alternatively, you could reorganize and rearrange your belongings in your new home to give them a fresh look.your new home to give them a fresh look.
Consider donating your gently used furniture to Ulster County Habitat for Humanity to help those in need. Your donations support the dream of homeownership for Ulster County families.
Every change in life brings new opportunities. This is the perfect time to reflect on how you want to live in this new phase of your life. Consider exploring activities or experiences that you haven’t tried before. Do some research about the area and find out what’s available to you. Often, the most fulfilling experiences are the ones that challenge us to step out of our comfort zones. You could also try to incorporate more outdoor activities, adventures, and hobbies into your life. This is a great opportunity to shape your life into something new and exciting.
When preparing to downsize and declutter for a move, it’s beneficial to consider it as a chance for a fresh start. This is a powerful opportunity to allow a new phase of your life to flourish. It may be time to replace some items you’ve held onto for years. Decluttering can provide a refreshing and rejuvenating experience. Letting go of the old creates room for the new.
It’s important to take the time to relax during the move. This experience is all about new beginnings, and finding ways to enjoy it with laughter is the right approach. The world is changing, and it’s essential to remember a deeper truth about life.
Download Your Moving Checklist
What to Do Before the Move
Change the Locks
There’s no guarantee the previous owners turned over all the keys. Make sure to update any external locks before moving any valuable items into the house. Take the time to update any passwords or codes on your security system or garage doors while you’re at it.
Check Smoke Detectors
Smoke detectors could be faulty or have old batteries. Replace all batteries and test them thoroughly before reinstalling. If your new home has carbon monoxide detectors, test them and check for a creation date. Consider replacing any smoke or carbon monoxide detectors that are more than five years old.
Replace Air Filters
There’s no telling how old the air filters in your HVAC system are. Replacing them is especially important if someone in your house is sensitive to dust or animal hair that could have been left behind. Replace the air filters and mark the date on your calendar so you know when to replace them in the future.
Locate Circuit Breakers and Shut-Off Values
You’ll want to familiarize yourself with these items in case of a plumbing leak or tripped breaker. Do this before moving in to be ready for an emergency. Label the breakers for future use. (Also, store a flashlight nearby for your next power outage.)
Change Your Address
You can’t pay your bills if the mailman doesn’t know where to find you! Change your address on the USPS website at least two weeks before you move. Make sure to tell your extended family and friends about your move too — you don’t want to miss their holiday cards or forward your address.
Switch Banks
Check to see if your bank has a branch in the town you’re moving to. If it doesn’t, you’ll have to switch banks. Go to your city’s Facebook page to see if any locals have bank recommendations, or stick with a larger company if that makes you feel more comfortable.
Meet Your Neighbors
It doesn’t hurt to make a few friends before moving into the neighborhood. Introduce yourself to your neighbors during the moving process. Now you’ll see some familiar faces when you collect your daily mail.
