Congratulations on the successful settlement of your home! It's now time to actually make the move! Once you have the keys, changed the utilities and put your homeowner's insurance policy in place at settlement, it's time to get the moving truck and start loading.
As a 'seller', you can begin the moving process prior to settlement if you choose. As a 'buyer', you can move into your new home the moment you finish signing all the documents at 'closing' and obtaining the keys. It is customary in Maryland that the 'seller' physically moves out prior to the settlement table, and the buyer physically moves in after the settlement table. It can be much easier (and recommended should anything go amiss at the settlement table) that the buyer move the day after closing.
At times, a post-settlement agreement is included in the contract of sale spelling out conditions wherein the seller can remain in the house via a 'rent-back agreement'. This agreement allows the 'seller' to remain in the buyer's house as a renter paying rent and utility fees, posting a security deposit and pet deposit, if necessary. At times, a pre-settlement agreement is included in the contract of sale spelling out conditions wherein the buyer can occupy the house via a 'rent agreement'. This agreement allows the buyer to occupy the seller's house as a renter paying rent and utility fees, posting a security deposit and pet deposit, if necessary.
"If you fail to plan, then you plan to fail". Prepare your moving plan with diligence. This will involve scheduling 'action items' in advance and determining the logistics and costs of these items. Other decisions, including choosing between do-it-yourself rental trucks or full service companies, may involve getting estimates and moving insurance. Do that well in advance of moving and please get WRITTEN ESTIMATES!
Be aware of how valuable your personal items and household goods are. Knowing the value will help if you decide what type of moving insurance coverage you will require - basic, dollar value-based, and/or replacement coverage. Basic usually costs around $.50 - $.65 per pound. Value-based coverage requires that you assess all items at the "street" or "market" price. Replacement coverage is just that. Items are assessed at replacement cost. Be sure you have all the receipts. Under this option, you and the moving company will have to agree on the value of each item. Therefore, if anything is damaged during the move, you get full replacement cost regardless of the "market" value or depreciation of the item. Be sure to document any items missing or damaged in writing as soon as possible to ensure a smooth claim process. Also, be sure you fully read and understand the insurance and liability coverage agreement so that you know your rights, especially if you need to make a claim.
Once the settlement occurs, it is time to actually relocate. You must be organized and efficient in order to have a pleasant moving experience. Here's a link to our Personal Move Coordinator...our staff is here to assist. Personal Move Coordinator
If you are the seller, several days before the move, set up an appointment to have home meter readings on the day of closing. These readings are the 'final readings' and should include gas and fuel oil, electricity, water/sewer, telephone, cable and any other independent monthly service. You will also need to cancel your mail and have it redirected with a forwarding address. When paying bills, be sure to fill out the change of address section of the payment coupon with your new address.
If you are the buyer, please have the gas and electric, fuel oil, water/sewer, telephone, cable and other independent monthly services established in your name prior to moving in. You will want a seamless transaction, so be sure to let everyone know that you want service to start the day the seller's have the meters closed. As the buyer, you will need the seller's names for some of these items.
The day prior to settlement, verify with your Realtor that all documents are ready for closing. Once this has been done, it is time for you to pack up those last minute items!
For those with little time or who don't enjoy packing, full-service movers do pretty much as the title states. Full service usually means providing the packing materials, transport vehicle(s), and manual labor. For folks not wanting to or cannot do the "dirty" work, full-service is just for you. You do not have to pack, load or unload boxes, or negotiate driving a truck. However, be prepared to be on-site and give plenty of directions. Remember, details really do count. Here are a few well-known full-service moving companies:
If you want to save money, the 'do-it-yourself' approach includes packing, loading, and unloading. If you are moving locally, usually you will call your friends and family. And, you'll be visiting the local grocery stores to begin the 'empty box' collecting. To maximize this approach, you will also want to rent and drive the truck yourself. If you are uncomfortable driving a truck, no matter the size, some self-service movers drive the truck and deliver your 'already boxed and loaded' household goods for you. This approach is helpful if you need assistance in a long distance one-way move; or, transporting an automobile, boat or other vehicle. An alternative to your moving the cars, investigate auto moving companies.
Make time to do advanced registration and comparison shopping for the best rates. Truck and moving companies are booked well in advance. Here are a few well-known do-it-yourself-ers.
Enjoy your new home!