REAL E$TATE $EN$E

• First Things First
• The Earnest Money Deposit
• Security For The For Sale By Owner
• Are Agents Required To Tell
• Appraising
• Prepare Property For Market
• Making The Move

1. Arrange to take valuables with you or send ahead by registered mail. Movers will not take valuables such as money, securities, stamp or coin collections and jewelry.
2. Set aside toys and games children might want to have with them on the trip.
3. Set aside items that you want to be given special handling by the mover.
4. Prepare a list of those things you want to "load last," so you can get them first during unloading.
5. Drain gasoline from your lawnmower and dispose of any flammable or combustible materials. The mover will not take material such as gasoline, paint thinner, ammunition.
6. Pick up articles of clothing at the cleaners.

The Day Before You Move

1. The packing crew usually arrives the day before the van is loaded. Be sure someone is on hand to supervise the packing.
2. Pack any valuables you intend to take with you.
3. Make sure fragile items receive special attention. Label cartons as to contents and where they go in the new home.
4. Empty, defrost and wash out the refrigerator and freezer.
5. Gather keys to the house and arrange to leave them with the new owners of your home, your real estate agent, or a trusted neighbor.
6. Notify police if your home will be unoccupied after you leave.
7. Notify a close friend or relative of your itinerary in case of emergency.

The Day You Move From Your Home

1. Plan an early, simple breakfast.
2. Check the mover's inventory to see that you agree with the mover's judgment on the condition of your household goods. Take photographs if there is a dispute.
3. Make sure you get a copy of the inventory.
4. Load those things you are taking on the trip, including luggage.
5. Search every room before the van leaves.
6. Check the bill of lading for completeness before you sign it. Retain a
   copy for your records.
7. Find out the van driver's name and make certain he knows how to reach you at the destination.
8. Turn off the water heater. Set your thermostat at 55 degrees.

The Day Before You Move Into Your New Home

1. Get there before the movers. There could be a waiting charge if you are late.
2. Contact utility companies.
3. Check appliances, furnace and hot water heater, so you can contact a repairman immediately if something is not working.
4. Check household goods carefully as they are unloaded for loss or damage. List all lost or damaged items on the inventory form.
5. Since you will probably do some unpacking after the movers leave, make a note on the inventory "subject to inspection for concealed damage."
6. Ask the mailman if he is holding any mail for your arrival.

After You Are Settled

1. Obtain necessary licenses: driver's, automobile, dog, etc.
2. Contact newspapers, dairy, etc., for home deliveries.
3. Register car at new address (there may be a penalty if you wait too long).
4. Register to vote.