Between packing and loading the truck to transporting kids, pets, and belongings to a new home, moving can be stressful. Although most people breathe a big sigh of relief when they land in their new surroundings, getting settled can also be overwhelming. Our REALTORS® know that there's so much more to settling in than moving furniture and unpacking. Here are some tips on how to make the process run smoothly and get settled into your new place.

• Forward mail and transfer utilities.
  Before you move, fill out a change of address form on the USPS website and have the utilities transferred and turned on at your new home. This will help you avoid headaches such as walking into a dark house with no electricity or missing important mail. To change your address with your bank, credit card companies, and other financial institutions contact them directly.
  
  
• Check out your home's safety features.
  You have no idea how many keys were made, so it's vital to change the locks as soon as you move into your new home. Take a look around and locate the circuit breakers, fire extinguishers, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and water and gas shutoff valves.
  
  
• Clean as you go.
  It can be tempting to start unpacking and immediately arrange furniture, rugs, and other items but cleaning is easier if you do it before unpacking. Start with vital rooms like the bathrooms, bedrooms, and kitchen.
  
  
• Unpack much-used items first.
  Having your favorite cozy sweater handy can be a comforting way to settle in. Make up the beds with fresh sheets so you can slip into a good night's sleep from the first day you're there. Unpacking items you frequently use in the kitchen will make it easier to prepare your first meal. Making kids' favorite toys and art supplies accessible will keep them busy and help them adjust to their new surroundings.
  
  
• Cook something simple.
  Nothing says home like a homemade meal, right? While it may be tempting to order pizza and keep on unpacking, taking the time to prepare a meal and sit down and eat with the family is about as homey as you can get. It doesn't have to be fancy. An easy pasta dinner and salad can quickly be eaten picnic-style on the floor and gives you a chance to relax around a home-cooked meal.
  
  
• Get personal.
  Unpacking family photographs, children's artwork, favorite books, candles, and music can make the transition to a new home much more enjoyable.
  
  
• Check out the area.
  Take a walk around the neighborhood and introduce yourself to any neighbors you may encounter. Talking with other people who live in the area is a great way to find out about the best restaurants, parks, movie theaters, and other can't-miss places in your community. Check out your local grocery store and take the kids to the park or library to get a feel for what's happening around town.
  
  
• Celebrate!
  Once you've unpacked and feel a little more settled, hold a small gathering to celebrate your new beginnings. Don't worry about your house being perfectly decorated or spotlessly clean—it won't matter to your friends and family.

Are you interested in learning more about Richmond homes for sale? We can help you find a home you'll love. Contact us to get started.