By Suzie Wilson
Moving is rarely an easy experience. Even when you work with a qualified real estate team to find a home, making the move itself is a complex process. And when you’re moving to California, there can be even more factors to think about.
Nonetheless, the Golden State is an overall wonderful place to live and is full of opportunities for happy, healthy living. So if you’re planning to move there, congratulations! Thrive33 brings you the steps you need to take for a successful move with minimal stress.
The more carefully you plan your move, the more likely it will go smoothly.
Arrange the Move Strategically
- Before you make any plans, make sure you find the right home.
- Take into account traffic and weather conditions when scheduling your move.
- Declutter your belongings before deciding what to take with you to the new home.
- Bring along a box of essential items (e.g., non-perishable foods, extra clothes, important medications, etc.) on your trip.
Handle Tasks Soon After Moving In
Start thinking now about the tasks that need taken care of once you move into your new home.
- First of all, make sure you understand the costs and requirements that come with living in California, such as higher taxes and more stringent driver’s license and vehicle registration guidelines.
- Get any utilities set up, such as gas, electric, water, and internet.
- Unload the largest and most important items off the truck first, and organize your belongings as you unpack them.
Work-Related Updates
Depending on what you do for a living, there are certain things that go hand-in-hand with moving.
- Verify that your former workplace has your contact information for forwarding tax documents.
- If you own your own business, update your contact information with pertinent organizations like memberships, vendors, customers, and so forth.
- Those who own an LLC, for instance, need to register with the state of California. Fortunately, this is easy using an online service.
- Be sure to update your website with any contact information changes.
- Get plugged into the community by joining your local chamber of commerce.
Think of any professionals that can take some work off of your plate.
Hire Help
- Hire a long-distance mover to take your belongings.
- Have a house cleaner go through your new home.
- If you could use some help with curb appeal, bring on a professional landscaper.
- Look for a qualified handyman who can handle various home repairs.
No matter where you move to, you can expect challenges along the way. And remember that you may have to take care of a few additional matters when moving to the Golden State. If you consider the resources listed here and carefully plan your move, it will help the whole process go more smoothly.