Before You Go
• Order a telephone directory for your new town from your local phone company.
• Arrange for childcare. You may need to put your name on a waiting list.
• Subscribe to the local newspaper to learn about upcoming events.
• Get to know the new town street by street before you arrive. Contact the Visitor's Bureau for materials, which should include a map. Identify important routes, such as those between your home and your office or your child's school.
• If possible, enroll your children in school. Firm plans will reduce the stress.
Upon Arrival
• Have the locks changed. You never know who has a copy of the house key.
• Locate emergency services - police and fire stations and the closest hospital.
• Hang drapes or curtains to give you some privacy.
• Select one room, perhaps the den, to be a refuge. Make it a cozy space, free of unpacked boxes, empty cartons or anything else move-related.
• Stock the fridge with prepared entrees and the makings for no-fuss meals.
The First Week
• Check with the post office to see if they are holding mail for you.
• File away all documents related to the move. You'll need them for verification of moving expenses at tax time.
• Call the Department of Sanitation for a trash collection schedule.
• Open a bank account and arrange for a safe deposit box, if needed.
• Obtain a local driver's license and transfer the vehicle registration.
• Register to vote. Call the local Board of Elections for information.
Help Your Children Adjust
• Maintain family routines. Kids will appreciate the continuity of family life.
• Involve the kids. Allow them to select new furnishings or decorate their rooms.
• Take your children to the local playground. If you move during the summer, it's likely they'll make friends there, which should ease the transition to the new school.
• Try to be home when the children return from their first day at school. Kids feel reassured when a parent is there to hear about their day.
• Watch for signs of adjustment problems. These can manifest as trouble making friends, academic difficulties, and irritability or depression.
Get Involved in the Community
• Spend time outdoors. Neighbors may greet you and come by for sidewalk chats.
• Walk your dog in an area where you see other dog owners congregating.
• Schedule an after-work coffee or dessert hour. Invite neighbors to drop by.
• Choose a place to worship and get involved; consider doing volunteer work.
• Select professional service providers such as doctors, a dentist, a vet.
• Check the YMCA/YWCA for a Newcomers Club.
• Join a club or take up activities you enjoyed before the move.
• Take a job-related class to develop new professional contacts and update skills.
Pam & Dave Pettigrew, CRS, are available to answer you questions on real estate. Write to them at Prudential Prime Properties, 3665 JFK Parkway, Fort Collins, 80525, call them directly at 282-9305, email FCRealtor@msn.com or visit their web site at http://www.FortCollinsRelocation.com