Seamless Transition: Steps to Follow When Moving Out After Selling Your Home
"I just sold my home and don't want to forget any steps involved during my move out." If you have found yourself asking this question, you have come to the right place! I have you covered with my step-by-step move out guide below.
1. Choose A Lawyer or Notary
Research or ask your real estate agent for advice on selecting a Lawyer or Notary.
2. Moving Logistics
Book your moving truck! Research and hire a reputable moving company or plan for a self-move. I recommend doing this right away, especially if your possession is at the very end, or start of a month. You don’t want to compete with everybody else who is moving at this popular time.
Gather packing supplies and label boxes to make unpacking easier.
Book the elevator. When you notify your strata manager of your new ownership, you should also book the building elevator for your move.
3. Utilities and Services
BC Hydro– Move or cancel your electricity with BC Hydro.
Fortis Gas – If you have a separate gas bill, move or cancel your Fortis account.
Utilities Bill– detached houses will require paying utilities - move or cancel your account.
Cable & Internet – Move or cancel your services with your current provider. Does your new home / condo have a preferred provider, look into options!
Other – do you have any other new services at your place that you need to cancel or move (Home Security, Alarm, Mysa bills, etc.)
4. Home Owners Insurance
Cancel your homeowners insurance and inquire about new options if you are moving locations.
If applicable, transfer any remaining home warranties to the new homeowners.
New to BC? These are a few companies I’d recommend considering obtaining home insurance quotes from: Intact, BCAA, Wawanesa.
5. Change of Address:
Update your new address with the post office, banks, insurance providers, and any relevant subscriptions or memberships.
Notify government agencies, including the DMV, IRS, and voter registration office.
Inform your employer and update your new address for payroll and tax purposes.
6. Prepare Your Home For Handover
Double check your contract, or possible addendums, for any repairs or maintenance tasks you agreed upon and ensure the work is completed prior to possession.
Hire Professional cleaners to assist with a spotless key hand over. Thoroughly clean the house, including carpets, windows, and appliances.
Leave behind any items that were agreed upon -possible lighting, curtains, blinds, furniture, etc.
Leave behind manuals and warranties for appliances and systems in the home.
7. Complete A Final Walk-Through:
Say goodbye and perform a final walk-through to ensure everything is in order. Check every room, closet, and outdoor area to ensure it's clean and as agreed upon.
Gather all sets of keys, garage door openers, and access codes. Place them in an envelope clearly labeled for the new owners. If applicable, provide instructions for security systems or other smart home devices.
Compile all relevant documents, such as warranties, manuals, and maintenance records (if appicable).
If you need advice or a contact for any trades-worker, moving companies, cleaners or anything else related to your move out, I would be happy to provide my recommendations!
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me.
