Printable Moving Guide
Printable Moving Guide for Buyers
Moving is a mix of logistics and life change, and the secret is giving the details enough room. This guide walks you from about 60 days before moving day to the moment the keys are in your hand, all in one place. Print a copy, keep it on the counter, and cross each item off as it is done. I have helped buyers across Illinois and Indiana make this same move, and you can do this. You Can With Joanne!
Prints cleanly on standard letter paper.
How to use this guide
Work one phase at a time and tick each box as it is done. If a date moves, the list stays the same: the order is designed so the big, slow items happen first. And when a step raises a question, call, text or book a call with me. That is what I am here for.
Phase 1
About 60 Days Out
Get Mortgage Pre-Approval
If you have not yet, get pre-approved with a lender you trust. It tells you exactly what you can afford and shows sellers you are ready to act.
Budget for Closing Costs
Beyond the down payment, plan for closing costs, typically 2 to 5 percent of the purchase price. Ask your lender for a clear estimate early so nothing surprises you at closing.
Book Your Movers
The best movers fill up fast, especially around month-end closings. Lock in your date as soon as closing is scheduled, and confirm the total quote in writing.
Gather Boxes & Packing Supplies
Start collecting boxes, tape, wrap and labels now. Sturdy free boxes from liquor and hardware stores save money and get the job done.
Notify Your Current Landlord
If you rent, give notice within the window your lease allows, and ask about the move-out walkthrough and cleaning expectations.
Phase 2
About 30 Days Out
Finalize Moving Day Plans
Confirm the date, time, crew size and total cost with your movers. Ask about parking, elevator time, and anything they do not move.
Schedule Utility Start Dates
Call gas, electric, water and internet now. Most providers need a few days notice, so book start dates for the day before move-in or the morning of.
Change Your Address
File a USPS change of address and update your banks, credit cards and employer so statements and paychecks land at the right place.
Transfer Prescriptions & Medical Records
Send your new address to your pharmacy and doctors, and have prescriptions ready to transfer to a pharmacy near the new home.
Arrange School Transfers
Contact the new school district early. Registration, records and proof of residency can take longer than families expect.
Disconnect or Transfer Old Services
Schedule end dates for the services at your current home, and transfer anything the next occupants plan to keep.
Phase 3
The Final Week
Confirm Closing Details
Confirm the closing date, time, location and payment method with the title company, and verify wiring instructions by phone before sending anything.
Schedule the Final Walkthrough
Walk the home in the days before closing with your agent. Confirm agreed repairs are done and the home is in the condition you expect.
Pack the Non-Essentials
Box up what you will not need before moving day, label every box by room, and keep the daily essentials out and easy to find.
Plan Moving-Day Logistics
Arrange parking for the truck, book elevator or stair time in a condo or apartment, and plan for pets and kids on moving day.
Set Up Internet at the New Home
Book the install window for the new address around move-in day so the Wi-Fi is on when the boxes arrive.
Plan the Lock Change
Old keys may still be out there. Plan to rekey or replace the locks right after closing for peace of mind.
Phase 4
Moving Day
Pack an Essentials Box
One clearly labeled box with chargers, toiletries, a change of clothes, medications, snacks and the tools you will need in the first hours.
Keep Your Phone Charged
The movers, the title company and your agent all reach you by phone. Carry a charger and a portable battery.
Bring Your Closing Documents
Your photo ID, closing payment and signed documents ride with you, never in the moving truck.
Confirm Your Movers
Touch base with the moving crew that morning, confirm the arrival time, and walk the home once before they load the truck.
Photograph the Meters
At the new home, photograph the electric, gas and water meters before anything is connected so your first bills start from the right reading.
All the Best, Joanne
You Can With Joanne!™
Questions? Let's Make a Plan
Whether you are a first-time buyer or moving across the state line, I would love to walk this plan with you. Call, text or book a short call, and we will line your move up step by step.
Licensed in Illinois & Indiana · Licenses RB18001751 (IN) · 475.183533 (IL)