Selling Charlottesville real estate in Central Virginia since 1927
Make moving easier
You may be planning a move down the street or across the country. Here are some tips for making that move more hassle-free. Besides the traditional garage sale and packing of boxes, there are some hints you won't want to forget before the moving men arrive.
Ask questions. Check with friends and neighbors who have recently moved on which movers they employed and if they were satisfied with the results. Take the time to get as much information as possible from moving companies before selecting one. Check on truck size and availability. Ask about moving supplies, such as boxes, dollies, furniture pads, packing paper and tape.
Find out about protection plans for your possessions. Ask about lost or damaged property claim procedures. Determine price differences in packing the truck yourself or having it professionally packed. Most movers will also pack all, or some your possessions for you—for a price. Remember to get estimates.
Change your address with your local postal service and cancel utilities. At your new home, let your new postal service know you are coming and inform utility companies about the your arrival date. Let friends and relatives know your new address.
Send out change of address cards to magazines, newspapers and other publications you subscribe to. Establish a bank account in your new neighborhood. Make a list of all your moving activities and cross these chores off as they are accomplished. Most important make time to say goodbye to friends and neighbors.
Save your receipts. Many of your moving expenses are tax deductible, so hang onto those receipts. Consult with your accountant or tax advisor to find out what is deductible, or call the Internal Revenue Service and request Publication 521: "Tax Information On Moving Expenses."
Collect Documents. If you're moving out of the area, you'll need to gather your family's personal records. Remember to get your medical and dental records, school transcripts, legal documents, titles, bank records, tax returns, stocks and bonds certificates, birth certificates, passports and insurance documents. Be sure to empty your safe deposit box.
If you need a list of services in Charlottesville, go to our section called Welcome to the area to learn about voter registration, auto licensing and registration and more.
This is an exciting time, but also a hectic one. Treat yourself well and relax. Try to remember it's generally easier to unpack than it was to pack up!
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