It can take a long time to settle into a new place after you move. Someone once told me you’re not really home until you can walk around in the dark without bumping into anything. That might be true, although it seems impossible I can walk around in the dark without stepping on a dog toy. But there are things you can do before you even move that will make settling into your new home easier.
Here are five tips to help you settle into your new home:
- Get to know the neighborhood. This one is easy if you’re not moving far. Simply take a drive to your new area and walk around. It gets a little trickier if you are moving hundreds of miles away but it can still be done through Google maps. If you like to run, walk, or bike figure out what your new path will be. Find the closest place to stop and get your coffee, the nearest drug store. Read reviews on sites such as Yelp. Having an idea of what your new routine will be, will make it easier to settle in.
- Fill out a change of address form. Go to the United States Postal Service website and change your mailing address. Set the start address for a few days before you actually move. Make sure you also update financial institutions of your new address. Don’t forget to send friends and family either an email or a postcard with your new address.
- Take time to relax. Everything in your new place doesn’t have to be set up within a day or even a week. Make sure you take time to relax during the moving process. It’s exhausting.
- Set up utilities. Set up you electricity, gas, water, cable, Internet and anything else you need at your new address and set up a turn off date for your soon to be old place.
- Meet your neighbors. Make an effort to introduce yourself to your neighbors. They can be a great source of advice as you get to know your new hometown and can make you feel like you know some people.
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What other tips would you add?