You finally closed on your new home. Congratulations! The process of checking credit reports, getting a VA loan to finance your purchase, finding a realtor, looking for a house, and moving are over so whats next?
1.Update your address. Complete an official change of address form online or at a local post office to make sure that all your mails are routed to your new address. Don’t forget to call financial companies and your utilities providers for a change of address.
2.Transfer your utilities. You wouldn’t want to move in to a new home without electricity, gas, or water, right? If you’ve already started doing this, then good for you. And oh, don’t forget to call the telephone and cable company.
3.Invest in security. One of the important things that some people miss would be taking care of security. You don’t have to hire a security guard to do the job, all you gotta do is call a locksmith to change the locks since you wouldn’t know if someone else still has a key. Got extra dough? Get a security cam.
4.Meet your new neighbors. Don’t wait for your neighbors to come over and say hello. Go ahead and introduce yourselves. Your neighbors are the people who keep an eye at your new home when you’re away.
5.Don’t forget to pay your mortgage. I know it’s tempting to buy a new high definition TV or furniture for your new home. But, it’s wise to ease into your mortgage payment first before making any big purchases.
6.Familiarize yourself in the new area. Drive around and familiarize yourself in the area. The sooner you find out where the nearest Home Depot, grocery store, and gas station are the better. Also, take note of the garbage collection day and the phone number to the pizza delivery.
7.Attend a retreat. Everyone needs some time to relax, restore, and reconnect. If you are a veteran, there are special retreat programs for you and your family. Check out the Coming Home Project for more info about retreats especially created for veterans and service members.
8.Join a newcomer club. One of the nice ways to meet new people is by joining any ongoing newcomer clubs. Expand your social network and know the dish about the best dry cleaner in town, the nearest gym, and entertainment venues.
9.Buy tools and repair items. I bet you will need to hang or drill something. Every new homeowner needs a well-stocked tool box.
10.Celebrate! Savor the experience of getting your very own home by celebrating. You don’t need to throw a huge party. A little housewarming dinner with your family and closest friends should do it.
Want to do these things but you don’t own a house yet? Visit the VA Loan Store to get started.
http://nobsvaloans.com/2009/06/va-moving-checklist/
