Ultimate Moving Checklist for Home Buyers

Stay organized from contract to move-in day with this complete step-by-step guide.

Moving into your new home—whether in St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, Vilano, or anywhere in St. Johns County—is one of the most exciting moments of the home buying journey. But between inspections, packing, utilities, and moving day, it can also feel overwhelming.

This comprehensive moving checklist helps you stay organized before, during, and after your move so the transition to your new home is smooth and stress-free.

1. Right After Your Offer Is Accepted

Secure Important Documents

Create a digital and physical folder for:

• Purchase contract
• Inspection reports
• HOA documents
• Loan disclosures
• Insurance quotes

Keeping everything in one place will save time during underwriting and closing.

Schedule Your Home Inspection

Depending on the property, you may need:

• General home inspection
• Roof, electrical, and plumbing evaluations
• Termite/WDO inspection
• Wind mitigation or 4-point inspection (common in Florida)

Get Homeowners Insurance Quotes

Insurance varies greatly in Florida due to weather zones and build age—compare at least three companies so you understand coverage, exclusions, and costs.

Start Gathering Moving Estimates

Consider:

• Full-service movers
• PODS or portable containers
• Truck rentals
• Hybrid pack-and-load services

2. Six Weeks Before Moving

Create a Moving Budget

Include line items for:

• Boxes and packing supplies
• Movers or truck rental
• Utility deposits and connection fees
• Pet boarding or childcare
• Cleaning or handyman services
• Temporary storage or overlap housing (if needed)

Declutter Your Current Home

Go room by room and sort everything into:

• Keep
• Donate
• Sell
• Toss

This reduces moving costs and makes unpacking easier in your new home.

Start a Home Inventory

Take quick photos or videos of valuables, electronics, furniture, and appliances. This can help with insurance claims and documenting what you moved.

3. Four Weeks Before Moving

Order Packing Supplies

• Assorted box sizes
• Packing tape and dispensers
• Bubble wrap and packing paper
• Markers and labels
• Plastic bins for long-term storage
• Specialty boxes (TVs, artwork, dishes)

Notify Schools (If Applicable)

• Request student records and transcripts
• Confirm enrollment requirements for new schools
• Ask about bus routes and start dates

Schedule Utilities for Your New Home

Turn ON at your new home:

• Electric
• Water and sewer
• Internet and cable
• Natural gas or propane (if applicable)
• Trash and recycling pickup

Turn OFF at your old home: Schedule shutoff for the day after you move out, so movers still have power and water if needed.

Set Up New Service Providers

• Pest control
• Lawn and landscape maintenance
• Pool service (if applicable)
• Home security or smart home system

4. Two Weeks Before Moving

Begin Packing Non-Essentials

Pack items you won’t need for a couple of weeks, such as:

• Seasonal clothing
• Holiday décor
• Extra linens and towels
• Books and décor
• Garage or storage items

Change Your Address

Update your address with:

• USPS (mail forwarding)
• Banks and credit cards
• Employer and payroll
• Insurance companies
• Subscription boxes and memberships
• Online shopping profiles (Amazon, etc.)

Plan for Kids and Pets on Moving Day

Arrange for family, friends, or a sitter to watch children and pets on moving day so you can focus on supervising the move and answering questions from the movers.

5. One Week Before Moving

Pack a “First Night Box”

Include everything you’ll want easy access to on the first night in your new home:

• Medications and daily toiletries
• Change of clothes and pajamas
• Bedding and pillows
• Basic cookware, plates, and utensils
• Phone and laptop chargers
• Snacks, bottled water, and coffee supplies

Prepare Large Appliances

• Empty and defrost the refrigerator and freezer
• Clean the oven and stove
• Unplug appliances 24 hours before moving (if required)
• Secure loose parts or shelves

Confirm Details With Your Moving Company

• Confirm arrival time and expected duration
• Review your inventory or item list
• Verify payment method and tipping standards
• Provide contact information and directions

6. Moving Day Checklist

Before Leaving Your Old Home

• Do a final walkthrough of all rooms, closets, attic, and garage
• Check cabinets, drawers, and behind doors
• Take photos of electric, gas, and water meter readings
• Ensure trash is removed and floors are swept or vacuumed
• Lock all windows and doors
• Leave keys, remotes, garage openers, and HOA materials as required

When You Arrive at Your New Home

• Verify utilities are on and functioning
• Walk through the home before movers unload
• Direct movers where boxes and furniture should go
• Check large items and fragile boxes for damage
• Sign moving paperwork only after everything is unloaded and checked

7. After You Move In

Install Safety Essentials

• Change exterior locks or install smart locks
• Test and, if needed, replace smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Set up your security system or video doorbell

Unpack Strategically

Start with the most important areas:

• Kitchen – daily cookware, dishes, and food basics
• Bedrooms – beds, linens, and clothing
• Bathrooms – towels, toiletries, and medications

Update Local Records

• Driver’s license and vehicle registration
• Voter registration
• Doctor, dentist, and vet offices
• Insurance policies (auto, home, health)

Get to Know Your Community

Explore nearby parks, beaches, restaurants, schools, and local shops—especially if you’re new to St. Johns County. This is the fun part of settling into your new home and lifestyle.

Final Tip: Don’t Rush—Your New Home Should Feel Right

Give yourself time to settle in and make thoughtful decisions about furniture placement, paint colors, and décor. A well-organized move makes the transition easier, and enjoying your new neighborhood makes it even better.

Need Help With Movers, Inspectors, Insurance, or Local Pros?

As a long-time St. Johns County expert, Diane Vespucci can connect you with trusted local:

• Movers
• Home inspectors
• Contractors and handymen
• Insurance providers
• Cleaning services
• Lenders and closing professionals

Whether you’re relocating from out of state or moving across town, you’ll have guidance every step of the way.

Call or Text: (904) 347-3957
Email: dianevespucci@gmail.com