Moving can be a pretty stressful event and is consistently ranked among the top 5 most stressful life events. While there are fun and exciting aspects of it, most of us will admit moving can really take a toll on you and your family. Moving to a new city or state can add even more to the stress level. While I'm no expert, I've moved to different cities and states a few times now and these 6 steps have helped to eliminate some of the stress that comes along with relocating to a new area.

1. Contact a local realtor. If you're moving to a new area, a realtor is a great resource to point you in the right direction as far as desirable neighborhoods and schools are concerned. Even if you aren't in the market to buy right away, often times, realtors can help you to find a good rental as well. If you are in the market to buy, contacting a home builder such as   John Houston Custom Homes, can help point you in the right price point, style of home and desired   community.  

2. Create a color coded labeling system for your belongings. Purchase sharpies or stickers and create a system where every person and room gets their own colors. (Keep a sheet that indicates which is which.) Label everything accordingly and hang the list up so everyone can see it. This way, no matter who is helping you move, they will be sure to put the boxes in the right rooms which will cut down tremendously on confusion while unpacking.  

This tip is especially helpful if your stuff will temporarily be housed in a storage unit as it will make getting to what you need so much easier.  

3. If you're moving to a new state, check out how many days you're allowed to have your out of state drivers license and start as much of the paper work as possible to get things transferred over ahead of time. Having your car impounded because you failed to switch your license and registration over in a timely manner will probably add to your stress level...not decrease it. Going to your new states Department of Motor Vehicles should provide you with the checklist that you need to get you started.

4. Keep important documents such as social security card, passport and birth certificates in a separate folder. Be sure to keep the folder with you and not your packed belongings.  
You will need these documents to register kiddos for school, get a new drivers license and all those other important to do's that come along with moving. It would not be fun to have to dig those out of the bottom of a box when you need them. (Not that I have experience with doing that or anything...ahem.)

5. Changing your address can be tedious but thankfully it's gotten much easier over the years. Better to just do it right off the bat to avoid any confusion. Simply go online to the   U.S. Post Office and fill out the online form. You will want to make a list of any debtors or banks that you get statements from to change your address with them as well. A fun way to let friends and family know of your new address is a postcard like this   one or get creative and make your own...gotta love   Pinterest!

These are just a few ways that you can make relocating easier but truly, planning ahead as much as possible is your best bet. Do research on the area your moving to. Scope out shopping and restaurants that sound appealing to you and read up about the city on the city website to get acclimated. I hope these tips were helpful for you and your family. We are always here to help in any way we can, be sure to call us at   866.646.6008  or check out our  website.