Seven Tips for Moving Out of State for the First Time

If you are about to embark on the exciting journey of relocating to a new city for the first time, there are several things you can do to help move out of state smoothly.

Your upcoming move will no doubt be an adventure, and if you happen to be looking for new homes in Utah County, your timing is excellent. McArthur Homes is the premier home builder in the region, and their newly-built community, Rockwell Ranch Townhomes, is waiting to welcome you. But first, here are a few important things to consider as you prepare for the big move from out of state.

Clear the Clutter Before You Move

One of the great things about moving is that it gives you a reason to get rid of all the unnecessary stuff that tends to accumulate over time. Whether it is old clothes, extra dishes, outdated toys and games or extra furniture, you can offset your moving costs by having a yard sale and then donating the leftover items to charity. Plus, the less stuff you have to haul over state lines, the easier the move-in will be.

Visit Before You Move

As a newcomer, you’ll want to have some idea about what awaits you in your new home base. Before you take that big step, it is a good idea to spend a few days getting to know what restaurants, entertainment and outdoor recreation you can look forward to in the area.

McArthur Homes offers new homes in the Lehi, Utah area that are located just minutes from world-class dining, family-friendly fun and breathtaking scenery.

Set Essentials Aside

It’s great to know you’re organized and ready for anything, but don’t forget that packing is a process. Most things can wait until after moving day – if not then just pack them up now! There are certain documents such as leases or mortgages which should always have an official place so they’re easy to access when needed most.

Figure Out How You Will Move Your Stuff

Depending on how much you are moving in terms of belongings, knickknacks, furniture, clothes, toys and equipment – you might consider hiring a team of professionals to handle it for you. The cost could easily be justified by how much stress having help removes from you. On the other hand, if you are taking a bare-bones approach, the move can be handled just as easily with a moving truck and a little teamwork.

Update Your Accounts and Mailing Address

If you bank with an interstate financial institution, you will want to notify the local branch of your impending arrival. Also, forwarding your mail to your new address a few days before you leave is a good idea, as is notifying your cell phone carrier/service provider of your relocation. Perhaps most importantly, that you set up utilities and internet service at your new address so that they are operating and installed when you arrive.

Keep Your Belongings Organized

A simple set of markers or crayons can help make things much easier when the time comes to unpack. All you have to do is create a color-coded system and label each box. For example, red for dishes, blue for books, green for glassware and a separate color for each family member’s personal belongings. This way, even if you can’t make out the writing, you will still know what is in each box based on the color of the ink.

Pack A Move-In Day Box

Arrival at your new home will probably be after a long day of driving and moving in. Rather than dig through multiple boxes looking for pajamas, pillows, toothbrushes, phone chargers and snacks, you can put all the things you’ll need on your first night in the last box you pack into the truck. In this box, place snacks, one-pot meals, a pot and spoon, durable cups, plates and silverware, napkins, paper towels, a first aid kit and toiletries. This way, you can get settled in with a few personal comforts that help make you feel at home when moving out of state.

If you’re thinking of making the move to Lehi, UT, contact McArthur Homes today. We have a variety of homes that will fit your needs. With over 20 years of experience, we know what it takes to make your move to a new state smooth and enjoyable. Let us help you find the perfect home in the right neighborhood for you and your family.

Categorized in: Home Buying Tips, New Homes in the Lehi area

This post was written by Paige Giles