Moving to pastures new can be both a worrying and truly exciting thing to take part in. You’re probably like pastures new.. say what? You know, “greener pastures”… that whole thing. Sometimes moving may be something long overdue, or simply something you couldn’t wait for any longer (I’ve been in both situations). It might be that you’re moving for work, a relationship (to or from) or maybe even for school. No matter the reason, it’s important to consider a few things/how you’re going to set yourself up during and after the move to make this experience as refreshing (and hopefully stress-free) as intended.

You may or may not know I’m currently in process of moving myself! WOO! And also nerve-wracking.. Building a house is no easy feat, there are SO many decisions to make and papers to sign. Organization has been key in this entire process. BUT I am super excited to see the final product – the house should be complete (finger crossed) at the end of July!

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Ensure Contracts Are Signed

Often, when either purchasing a house or hoping to move into some form of rental, verbal agreements are as good as nothing. Get everything in writing. You need to sign before you begin making other arrangements. This will ensure you have a place to stay, and that selling or stopping the contract on your current place is just as good as you intended it to be. The last thing you want is for something to go wrong and land homeless! Yikes! There are many reasons as to why this process could take longer than intended. It might be the person you’re purchasing from is actually hoping to purchase another home in probate for tax reasons, thus slowing the process – or maybe they change their mind altogether. In our case, building the house has had its own set of delays, some weather related and some builder related.  Sometimes badly written contracts can be the culprit – be sure to fine tooth comb over those before signing! Ensuring everything is above board before you commit to the move can help you stop being overtaken by unnecessary and annoying inconveniences. That’s refreshing in itself.

Care For The Moving Process

Moving is the most stressful part of the entire experience (I hate it), as in the practical, day to day task of moving your property – not the idea of it. Since I’m married to a military pilot – I’ve had my share of moving and moving experiences. When it comes to moving, you really want the best team of people at your side if you hope not to arrive at the new home exhausted or frustrated. Carefully look at the reviews of your movers and see their pro’s and con’s … We had friends in the military whose movers PACKED THEIR HAMSTERS in an unmarked box. They were moving cross-country and unpacked dead hamsters.. for real. Also – make sure you pack or take with you the items you consider personal or treasured. I don’t know about you but I don’t want some random person packing my underwear and unmentionables. Ew.

Luckily, essentially important services such as MyBelkins via https://www.mybekins.com/location/las-vegas-nv-movers/ can provide you moving assistance, and bring enough help to the role to ensure you needn’t lift a finger when it comes to hauling around everything. I’m not particularly great at it but Charlie intensely reviews any of the moving services we use before we enlist any help!

Care For Your Neighbors

Did I hear housewarming party?! It’s important to set up socially as soon as you unpack all your items and place them around the home. Inviting people around for a housewarming party is a great way to not only meet the neighbors but a fun social soiree to invite your friends to and welcome to your new home. Not your gig? That’s okay, maybe just try to meet the neighbors simply for the means of knowing who you’re surrounding yourself with. Simply knock on the door and introduce yourself, and spark up a conversation for a few minutes. Our neighbors in Utah brought us homemade breads and cookies, an instant way to my heart! They also brought over lists of local services (plumbers, handy men, favorite restaurants, etc). This gives you a great scope of the neighborhood. Who knows what you might unfold meeting the neighbors! It might seem a thing of the past but getting to know your neighbors creates a better sense of community AND better sense of safety.

Have you moved before? Left for school or a job? Did you have any good/bad stories from the experience? Any tips? So curious!

Here’s some of our house progress – she’s finally looking real!