Known to many as Arizona’s Urban Heart, Phoenix is the largest city in Arizona. Nearly 1.5 million people call it home, and more and more are becoming new residents every year. The annual U-Haul National Migration Trend Report listed Phoenix as the 14th most popular city to move to in 2010– perhaps due to its high rates of employment. Anyone planning a move to the city is sure to find plenty of opportunity, but getting there is no easy task. Before throwing everything in a box and heading to the American Southwest, take steps to ensure a smooth transition.
Learn About the City
Living in any city is about finding the right neighborhood. Some people want to be close to work, while others prefer award-winning school districts. Phoenix is a hodge-podge of neighborhoods – some eclectic and some upscale. For example, Paradise Valley is known for its pricier establishments and well-to-do neighborhoods, whereas the downtown draws a more urban crowd.
Scope-Out the City for New Places to Live
No one wants to move to a new city without somewhere to live. Often, new residents prefer to rent before buying. This is typically more affordable and requires less commitment – a significant benefit for new residents who are unsure of the city’s layout and the neighborhoods they will frequent most. Traditionally, new residents were relegated to finding real estate agents or sifting through newspaper listings and catalogs. Now, easy Phoenix apartment-finding apps simplify the process, making it faster than ever to search apartment listings from a smartphone.
Make a Packing Plan
It’s never a good idea to start packing without first having a plan. It’s a good idea to begin acquiring boxes several weeks in advance. The serial numbers of all electronics should be written down for safekeeping, and if possible, all valuables should be kept together to travel separately from the moving truck. Laundry should be washed and folded, with the out-of-season clothing put away first. Non-perishable foods can be stored away, as can knick-knacks and picture frames. If possible, make a meal plan to consume all perishable foods in order to avoid waste, or otherwise donate the food to a local food pantry.
Minimize Moving Time with a Garage Sale
There’s no better time to have a garage sale than a couple of weeks prior to moving day. Packing a house has a way of revealing excess clutter. A yard sale will unload household goods and clothes that don’t make the cut while generating a little extra cash for the move. What doesn’t sell can be loaded up and taken to the nearest Goodwill.
Stay Organized
Staying organized while moving is a difficult task at best, but it can prevent a lot of headaches during and after the move. Several weeks in advance, it is best to begin working with lenders and creditors to change addresses. Utility companies may need advance notice for cut-off dates, and it can take several weeks to tie up loose ends on a bank account. It’s also a good idea to contact companies associated with contract payment plans, such as cell phone companies, satellite television providers, local gyms and alarm companies. Often, memberships and services are transferrable, but advance notice may be required.
So, whether you’re moving to Paradise Valley or downtown, be ready for your transition with these steps. Don’t forget to learn about the area before you move in, whether it’s specific apartments or the city culture overall. Once you’re here, you can upack with ease since you’ve been so organized throughout the whole process! Welcome to Phoenix.
Leave a Reply