You did it! You sold your home, the deal has closed, and now you’re standing in your empty house preparing to say your goodbyes. It is the end of an era, but the start of a new adventure. This is an exciting, but sometimes daunting, challenge.
If you’re anxious that you may be forgetting something or missing an important step of the moving process, here is a checklist for your last day in your old home:
1). Make sure you have everything packed and moved. Do a final walkthrough just to be sure you have not missing anything. Review your closing contracts closely to ensure you don’t take anything with you that was on contract to stay in the home, such as a trampoline or microwave.
2). After years of living somewhere, dust and dirt build up; even with the most scrupulous cleaners. We recommend hiring a professional cleaning team to come in so that you have one less thing to do. Even with professionals, on your last walk through do one final clean to ensure the property is ready for its new owners!
3). Turn off everything. Make sure to contact waterworks, electricity, and gas to either turn off the services to turn them over to the new owners. Shut all water valves and make sure windows and doors are locked and sealed correctly. If you are leaving any appliances, ensure they are unplugged.
4). Leave all necessary keys and information. On the counter, or someplace obvious, leave items such as the garage door opener, tool shed key, home fixture remotes, etc. You should also leave copies of warranties for appliances or instruction manuals for fixtures where available. Don’t forget to lock the door when you leave for the last time!
5). Close all your accounts and change all of your address information. Cancel any property specific memberships and subscriptions, such as the community association. Ensure your address is changed over to your new one for all ID, bills, banking, delivery services, etc.
Moving is a major life event, and requires significant legwork. Take a deep breath; you’ve got this. Soon you'll be settled in your new home sweet home, ready to make new memories!
Posted by Ken Richter on
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