Moving to a new city, town or neighborhood can be exciting but it also comes with the added stress of having to adjust to a new home and all the people you will meet. Moving is no easy task, in fact, it’s one of life’s most daunting undertakings. Here’s how to make your move easier.
7 Things You Should Do When You Move to a New Town
1. Meet some of your neighbors
Getting to know the people around you will not only help you settle in the right away, but will also help you make friends in your new home town, which is always a good thing. If you have kids then get them involved too by asking them to introduce themselves to their classmates or their new playmates at the playground.
2. Explore the area
Once you have settled into your new home, work out where you would like to go each day to get out of the house and discover your new community. If you don’t have a car then consider getting around by walking or public transportation. Ask friends, neighbors or local stores for tips on places to visit, restaurants to check out and outdoor activities to take part in. Also, ask if there is a neighborhood watch that you can join.
3. Map out your route
You should prepare a map of where you will live and the best ways to get there. Also, consider what the weather and traffic patterns are in each city you choose. Get an estimate of how long it will take each day to drive or ride to work, school or where you shop. This helps keep a schedule as you plan your weekly activities.
4. Change your Email Address, license and plates
Contact your post office to change your address. This not only includes snail mail, but online bill pay and e-mail accounts as well. This will make sure that you receive important documents like insurance cards and bank statements.
Changing your driver’s license and vehicle registration is essential if you don’t want to get hassled by the police. You should also change your car plates as soon as possible. You might need to stop by the DMV and get a new set of plates before you go.
5. Cancel old services
Be sure to cancel any subscriptions or memberships for any bill paying services or subscriptions (magazines, library books, etc.) that you no longer need. This is a big task but that doesn’t mean it has to be done over night.
6. Register for Utilities
You should register for utilities such as water, heat, electricity and cable in your new place. Connect any telephone services which include cell phones, landlines and have an internet connection with cable, DSL or satellite TV service providers. You should call the utility companies in your area to set up service. If you have a prepaid phone, then you can usually get service when you open a new contract.
7. Find a good doctor
If you have insurance then sign up for medical coverage in your new town. You should also find a good family doctor and dentist that can give you the care you need. It is best to do this in the beginning so that if an emergency happens then you don’t have to worry about scrambling for care or waiting for an open appointment.
Conclusion
Moving to a new town is like entering the dating scene all over again. You need to be prepared and know how to meet new people. These tips will help you make your move easier and will also point out the essential things that you need to do as soon as you move into a new area.
