Making the Transition to Your New Home
The first few weeks and months can go along way toward making your long-term stay in your home a good one. Here are several important tips:- If you're moving to an unfamiliar location, obtain local maps as soon as possible.
- Change your address on your driver's license or get a new license, and get your car registered if you move to a new state. Make sure you're aware of local driving regulations and get your car a safety inspection sticker, if required.
- If your children are moving to a new school, try to find some time to volunteer for school activities. This will help you get to know the school and help you understand any problems your children experience as they get oriented to a new routine.
- If you're fortunate, your new neighbors will greet you. If they don't, spend some time outside so they have the opportunity to approach you. If all else fails, introduce yourself.
- Make it a point to get to know your new community. Get library cards, and find out about community-sponsored activities. Subscribe to the local paper so that you get a feel for how the community operates.
- If your children are having trouble with the move, give them extra attention and don't become impatient. Let them call their old friends, and, if possible, arrange for them to visit them.
- Make your pet feel at home by putting out its favorite toys, food dishes, or blankets. Don't allow your pet outdoors unleashed. The pet could easily become disoriented and be unable to find its way home.
