A Checklist of Things To Consider, Especially During the Pandemic
Life goes on. Even during unprecedented times in history, our personal worlds continue to evolve. And one of those changes could mean a move; relocating to a smaller domicile, to a new city, or to another state.
To reduce the amount of stress this kind of upheaval can cause, outlined below are steps to review and possibly tackle before the big moment arrives. Solid preparation and foresight will make this adventure, hopefully an exciting one, an easier transition into the next phase of your life.
1. Look Into Your New State & Local COVID Rules
As per unique to America, each state is handling the management of the coronavirus slightly differently. From shelter-in-place mandates, to restricting and qurentening requirements for out-of-state arrivals, to use of social distancing and masks in public places and establishments.
Best practice would be to prepare for the strictest guidelines and to be ready to manage those types of situations. Conditions continue to change from week to week, with some states on the gentle climb back to more normalcy, while other states might even be going through a second wave of infections. It will of course depend on where you are relocating to. A good idea would be to set up a daily or weekly news alert from your new state and local government with the ever changing requirements.
Moving companies are currently considered essential businesses, so you should have no difficulty finding suitable help if you are not a DIY type of person or family. Simply make sure to take the same precautions you would with any other business at this time. Ask about their sanitizing practices, ask for a virtual tour of the trucks or team, and have virtual meetings whenever possible.
2. How To Buy or Rent From Afar
It all starts with in-depth research and finding reputable sellers or management companies. As with most purchases, turn to trusted friends and acquaintances for referrals. Solid Google Business and/or Yelp reviews are also something to factor into the equation.
When looking at rentals over the Internet, some of the details that demonstrate the listing is from a knowledgeable source include:
- Inspection reports
- Highly descriptive details
- Not only decorative pictures, but images of ceilings, windows, under sinks- the gritty foundation details
- Measurements of rooms
- Photos of appliances
And most importantly, schedule video conference calls with realtors, owners, property managers. There’s no better guideline than actual face-to-face meetings.
3. Avoid Rental Scams
Unfortunately it is a fact at any time: rental scams do exist and stressful times like this pandemic could make the issue that much worse. Best to of course be vigilant for suspicious listings and deals that look too good to be true. This link offers an outline of common apartment rental frauds and scams, including hijacked ads and bait-and-switch apartments.
4. Do Your Community Homework
To feel even more at home and confident in your new location, it’s actually recommended to purchase a real map (yes PAPER!) of your new area and study it. It feels good to see the streets, parks, water bodies, etc. all laid out in front of you. This type of tactile learning is a great method to imprint new information in your mind.
Using search engines of course is also a perfect way to compile a list of all the essential businesses in your area. Such as the nearest:
- Supermarkets
- Pharmacys
- Hospitals
- City Offices
Immediately after the move is another time to take advantage of all the new home delivery services; this limits your exposure while you acclimate as well as decompress from the stress.
5. The Wi-Fi Connection!
Like a majority of the population, many have moved much of our lives, from work to play to school, to the online world. Thus, making sure your Wi-Fi service is capable and ready to go the instant you arrive is essential. Some internet companies can also mail you a kit and router to set it all up yourself with the help of your smartphone.
6. Consider Minimizing
Last but not least, what about the idea of reducing your physical burden? You’re moving– a huge lifestyle change in its own right. The amount of detail and organization to get everything done is a considerable task. What about starting fresh?
Think about the idea of selling or donating your old furniture. This could bring in some much needed cash for the move. And you also have the choice of purchasing or renting your new place already furnished. This could be a welcome change as part of your new start.
If this sounds like an interesting option, Remoov is Phoenix and the Bay Area’s top hauling service, offering you a free estimate on the cost of removal and the potential resale value of all the furniture you’d like to sell. Take a look at the three services offered with one phone call or text here.
Moving during the coronavirus pandemic is challenging, but doable. You just need the right resources and strategy in place. Once you’ve found your new home, don’t forget to get everything disinfected!
