03 Jan Not Your Average Move-In Checklist

Move-in checklist are handy. It’s so easy to forget you may need things like shower curtain hooks; been there. While those lists are great, there are a plethora of them to choose from. This, my friend, is not that list.  This list is intended to get you out of your apartment to explore your neighborhood. Moving to a new place can be overwhelming; especially if you’re moving to a new city or state. Get out there, explore your surroundings, and find the places you’ll need to make the transition easier.

First and foremost, the necessities:

• Grocery store
• Hospital / Doctor’s office
• Dentist’s office
• Post office
• DMV
• Vet – if you have a pet
• A gas station
• A bank
• Your new place of employment / school
• Utility providers
• A big box store – you know, for those shower curtain hooks you probably forgot

Non-necessity, but still pretty important:

• Coffee / tea shop
• Library / book store
• Restaurants
• Specialty grocers / farmer’s market
• Liquor store
• Hair salon
• Park – if you need it, dog park
• Hardware store – you will inevitably need something
• Running / walking trails
• Gym or yoga studio

Local magazines, often found at the library or local shops, community bulletin boards, and word of mouth are great resources to use when checking out your new neighborhood. Or, if high tech is more your speed, seek out some pages and groups on social media. You’ll be kept up-to-date on all the local events. Looking for authentic Mexican food? Take some time to read reviews on Yelp.

Moving is stressful. Knowing your way around your neighborhood will make you feel more settled. And, coffee shops, parks, bookstores, and the gym are great places to meet people. There’s nothing worse than moving to a new town and feeling all alone. Feeling more at home in your immediate surroundings transitions perfectly into meeting new people. Plus, when your friends and family come to visit, you can give them a tour as if your new town is your hometown!