After many months of research, planning and excitement, the day you've been waiting for arrives–the day you move into your brand-new Capital Home Builders home! We've put together some information to help you prepare and to make the transition even smoother.

We hope the Moving Checklist answers all your questions, and that we were helpful in your move.

We hope the following checklist will help your move go smoothly!

            8 WEEKS

• Start getting estimates for movers and other moving expenses, and budget for these costs.

• Make a file for all moving estimates and receipts.

• Call the IRS to find out which expenses are tax deductible.

• Review your walkthrough and closing dates for your new home.

• Research your new community, either on the Internet or with your new Chamber of Commerce.

             Some areas to look into include

             7 WEEKS

• Make a list of everything you own, divided into the following categories: items to be moved by movers, items to be moved yourself and items to be left behind.

• Gather medical and dental records (don't forget prescription and vaccination records!) and ask current doctors for referrals in your new community.

• Call your American Home Insurance agent to confirm new policies.

• Contact your child's school and have records transferred.

• Call all clubs and organizations you belong to and inquire about transferring or ending your membership.

              6 WEEKS

• Create a list of valuables that are impossible or difficult to replace (e.g., stock certificates, jewelry, wills).

• Take an inventory of everything you will get rid of and plan a rummage sale or charity pick up.

• Make an effort to use up frozen food that can't be moved.

             5 WEEKS

• Start gathering boxes if you are packing yourself.

• If you have pets, transfer vet records.

• Cancel deliveries if they are no longer needed.

• Register your kids in their new school.

• File a change of address with the post office, as well as with credit card companies, magazines to which you subscribe, friends and family.

• Call the utility companies for disconnect service. Have service transferred, or call new utility company for connection service (cable, electric, gas, fuel, phone, water).

             4 WEEKS

• If packing yourself, start packing up items that are rarely used, such as fancy dishes, glasses and artwork.

• If you are currently in an apartment, contact building management about moving day restrictions.

• Complete any necessary repair work on your old home.

• Schedule a moving date with your moving company.

• Relocation papers showing start date, pay and company buyout, if any.

• Fax number of Human Resources department from your current employer.

             3 WEEKS

• Return library books, pick up items at the dry cleaners and any items at repair shops.

• Decide whether you are keeping or giving away plants.

• Have your car serviced if you will be driving it a great distance for your move.

             2 WEEKS

• Transfer or close bank and credit union accounts, and pick up traveler's checks.

• Confirm travel arrangements.

• Clear out and clean your home. (particularly attic, basement, closets).

• Drain gas in your lawn mower and power tools.

• Clear out any safety deposit boxes, and check secret hiding spots for valuables or hidden keys.

             1 WEEK

• Label goods with labels provided by your moving company.

• Empty and defrost fridge at least 24 hours before moving.

• Pay all outstanding bills.

• If your old home will be vacant, tell the police and neighbors.

• Finish packing and set aside essentials for the road, such as

  • Cash

  • Checkbook

  • Traveler's checks

  • Toiletries

  • Medications

  • Light bulbs

  • Toilet paper

  • Pet food

  • Eyeglasses or contact lenses

  • Toys and games to entertain kids in the car

  • Necessary moving information

              MOVING DAY

• Provide movers with specific loading instructions, directions to your new home, etc.

• Check the entire home one last time.

• Leave your new address for the future residents so they can forward any stray mail.

• Separate last load items, such as your vacuum and bed sheets (the first things you will want when you unload).

• You will probably arrive before the moving truck. Look things over and make sure the utilities and phone have been connected.

• Take a look at the layout of your new home and determine where movers should place furniture. Have payment ready for movers.

             AFTER THE MOVE

• Keep all records and documents in one place for tax purposes.

• Get a new driver's license and plates if necessary.

• Register to vote.

             Call your local newspaper, cable company and Internet service provider for subscriptions.