Moving Checklist

Think you're all set for moving day? Think again. Many people who buy Laguna Beach homes focus so much on the purchase itself that they overlook tiny details of the move itself-and often, it costs them a good deal of time and money. Last-minute calls and arrangements aren't uncommon, and it takes a lot more work than it seems to get everything in place once you're moved in.

So don't wait until the last minute-chances are you have enough time to prepare, from your Laguna Beach home search to the closing date. After all, it's always easier when everything's planned out before you. Why waste your first week in Laguna Beach calling the phone company and signing up for cable? By getting everything ready ahead of time, you can start enjoying your Laguna Beach property as soon as you buy it.

LagunaOC.com offers everything you need to get ready for moving day. Read on for a quick guide to planning before, during, and after your move.

3-4 Months Before the Move:

• Contact your Laguna Beach real estate agent and find out about relocation packages offered by the city.

• Book your moving company in advance and get moving insurance if necessary. Look into local companies-they'll have more experience moving into Laguna Beach homes.

• Obtain copies of your medical history, transfer any prescriptions if necessary, and start looking for family doctors in your new community.

• Notify all your accounts of the address change: credit cards, magazine subscriptions, insurance companies, post office, utilities.

• If you have school-age kids, look up Laguna Beach schools close to your neighborhood and sign them up.

1-2 Months Before the Move:

• If you're changing jobs, inform your former employer of the move so they can adjust your account for tax return purposes.

• Pack up everything you're taking except the ones you'll need until the last day. Start with heavy items such as furniture, rugs and shelves.

• Secure important papers such as school records, employment certificates, and legal documents.

• Close any local bank accounts you have, open a new one close to your Laguna Beach home, and arrange a fund transfer.

During the Move:

• Before leaving, do a last round of checks in each room to make sure you're not leaving anything behind.

• Place valuables such as cash, jewelry, gadgets and real estate documents in a hand-carried container.

• If you're driving, pack some entertainment for the kids such as books and games.

• If you have pets, prepare them for the trip and make sure they have adequate food.

• Turn over the old house keys to your agent, the new homeowners, or the buyer's agent.

After the Move:

• Sign up for local utilities such as water, electricity, cable, phone service and gas.

• Register your vehicle within five days if you're moving from another state and apply for a local driver's license.

• If you're moving from within the state, request a change of address for your license.

• Make appointments with the school board to discuss school transfers, and local doctors to get the whole family signed up.

• Ask about the local homeowner's association and get to know the neighborhood.