Managing your move

Planning your move is as much a part of the closing process as signing the papers and getting the keys. Take the time to do it right. You should begin planning as soon as your offer has been accepted and you and the seller have signed the purchase contract.

Taking possession

Your contract should specify the date and time that you get the keys and take possession. That most likely will be the day escrow closes, although you and the seller can set any time. Some sellers prefer not to vacate the house until closing day. That means the soonest you can move in is the next day. Before you move in, be sure to check the house again for moving damage or uncompleted repairs (if repairs are uncompleted, your contract should spell out how to resolve this problem). If the seller needs to occupy the house for a period of time after the closing, you should negotiate what is called a seller rent-back in the purchase contract. Most seller rent-backs require the seller to pay the equivalent of the buyer's monthly mortgage payment.

TIP: If the house is vacant before closing day, you may want to have contractors come in to paint or do other work. Most experts recommend that you postpone your move instead. You don't want to assume any responsibility for the house until it is officially yours.

Finding a mover

Obtain estimates from three licensed movers before making a choice. Have an estimator from each company you are considering visit your house to examine the items you are moving before issuing an estimate. Verbal estimates are not binding so make sure each mover gives you a written estimate. In most cases, you will want a “not to exceed” or “best price” estimate. This will limit your moving expense to the amount of the estimate. If the move ends up costing less than the estimated amount, you will pay the lower price. Ask about discounts.

Trusting a mover

Price is an important factor in choosing a mover, but service can be just as important. Moving is stressful, even if it goes smoothly. Be wary of a bid significantly below all other estimates. A low bid can indicate that someone is trying to buy your business, or it can be a sign of inexperience. You are trusting a stranger with your personal belongings, so make sure you feel confident that you will get the level of service you require to feel comfortable.

Smooth moves

Save money by getting moving less: Sell, donate or throw possessions you don't want before you get your estimate.
Request good-credit letters from your utility companies: You can avoid putting down money for deposits this way.
Start working on your change of address notices: Send them to creditors, magazines, membership organizations, insurance companies and other regular correspondents. You may also want to send out a notice to your friends and relatives.
Measure all openings in the house, or space in elevators and stairwells: You want to make sure there's enough clearance to accommodate your possessions.
Prepare your own inventory of important possessions: Include box numbers so you can find these items quickly.
Arrange for utilities: Call at least two weeks before your move to have electricity, water, gas or telephone switched on closing day or the day you move in.
Arrange for contractors: If there is time between your closing and move-in dates, you may want to get carpeting and painting done before you move in the furniture.
Make a First Night box: Label it prominently and include towels, sheets, blanket, tissues, paper towels, plastic utensils, paper plates and cups, screwdriver, hammer, can opener and other essentials.
Change the locks on your doors: You may or may not choose to do this, but most security experts advise doing so.
Save your receipts: You may be able to deduct some of your moving expenses. Consult your tax adviser.

Don't wait to call

Although it is possible to line up a mover as late as two weeks before you move, it is wise to start the selection process a month or two in advance. During busy spring and summer months, the peak season in the moving industry, it can take a few weeks just to get an appointment with a moving company representative.

Paying up

Ask the moving company how it wants you to pay upon delivery of our goods (usually it's cash, credit card or cashier's check). If they want cash, be sure to get a receipt. The mover also will ask you to sign off on the inventory delivered (you may want to designate someone to check in boxes and furniture as they arrive). This is also the time to note any damage, which you'll need to contact the moving company about later in order to file a claim.