Moving from one city to another can be an overwhelming process. Better yet, try moving out of state. You will naturally do many things during this time, but while registering the kids at new schools, searching for grocery stores and other necessities, and settling in at a new job, it’s the little things that are often forgotten.
Change of Address
You will need to notify credit card companies, insurance companies, and other services of your new address. You can also have your mail forwarded and make sure you are listed. For example, when you move to the city, check the New York white pages to see that you are in there. Sending out notes to friends and family in the mail or online is also a good idea. This may seem old-fashioned, but it is much appreciated by those that otherwise may not realize you have a new home.
Fining New Doctors
It is best to start your search for a new general practitioner, dentist, and eye doctor as soon as you move. One never knows when an emergency will arrive, and that won’t be the time to start looking frantically. Check online reviews of doctors in the area and ask neighbors and others in the community for their recommendations. This will help narrow down your options. Once you have come up with a few that sound like a good fit for your family, schedule a meeting with them to fill out forms and get a feel for what they are like.
Laws and Regulations
Whether you are moving to a small town or big city, it is good to become familiar with local laws and regulations. Find out if parking is allowed on your street when the trash is picked up and if any curfews might affect your older children. Each community is different. It is better to know these things ahead of time rather than try to explain your mistakes later. You’ll also want to talk to the neighborhood committee leaders about any rules regarding how you maintain your house and lawn.
Taking the time to do the little things like notify everyone of your new address, looking for good doctors in the area, and investigating local laws and regulations will save you plenty of headaches down the road. You’ll feel like a part of your new community quicker, but you won’t be alienating those you left behind either.
