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MOVING TIPS

Moving to Texas can be an exciting adventure. Whether you're drawn by the bustling cities, diverse cultures, or vast natural landscapes, the Lone Star State offers something for everyone. However, with its size and variety, choosing the best area to move to can be overwhelming. Once you've done that, the rest is easy. Here, we'll walk you through the essential steps to help you make your move to Texas an easier transition.

Find Moving Companies in Texas

Where to Start: Hiring Movers or DIY

by: Sydney Spence

 

Moving can be challenging, but it doesn't have to strain your budget. In today's economy, finding ways to save money is a top priority. Whether you're relocating for work, aiming to cut costs, or transitioning into your first home, there are numerous strategies to keep moving expenses in check.


Recycle your boxes. One cost-saving tip is to repurpose boxes you already have at home. This approach is far more economical than buying boxes from a storage company. Utilize everything from shoeboxes to copy paper boxes to reusable plastic storage bins for packing. You can also inquire at local grocery stores about leftover boxes from deliveries. Additionally, when contacting movers, ask if they provide boxes as part of their service.

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Opt for newspaper instead of pricey bubble wrap. Save money by using newspaper for wrapping delicate items. Many convenience stores offer stacks of free papers, so grab a few whenever you're there. Remember to be considerate and only take what you need. Newspapers are eco-friendly and serve as an effective alternative to plastic bubble wrap, reducing environmental impact.

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Research moving companies. Compare prices, discuss the moving process, and arrange a pickup date. Provide all necessary details about your move to ensure accurate quotes. Save time by evaluating multiple moving companies simultaneously.

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Handle the packing yourself. Packing your belongings can save you money, and it ensures that everything is organized for unpacking later. Label each box to easily identify its contents. Opting for self-packing can be more cost-effective than hiring movers to do it for you.

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Ready, set, move. After carefully wrapping and packing your possessions and scheduling movers, take a moment to relax before their arrival. Preserving your energy is essential, and knowing that you've saved money on your move may make the process a bit easier.

Find Electric Companies in Texas

Now that you've finalized the purchase of your new home (or secured that new apartment), it's time to set up your utilities. Residents in unregulated areas of Texas have the freedom to select their preferred electric provider.
 
PowertoChoose.org is a great website for comparing multiple electric providers that service in unregulated areas. Here are the most popular electric providers for those areas.

Find Water Companies in Texas

For the most part, no matter where you move to in Texas, a local water provider or city water will be available. This will be pretty easy to find once you have determined what city you ware moving to. 

Find Internet Providers in Texas

The main provider in Texas is Spectrum although Google and AT&T are also available. Some mobile providers now also offer internet service and hotspots. Check with your carrier to see what is available. The choices for internet providers is just as big as everything else in this state. 

Update Your Mailing Address in Texas

Now that you have closed on the new home, connected utilities, and have moved everything in, it’s time for the administrative stuff. Updating your address on your driver’s license, credit card accounts, and most importantly with the Post Office. 
 

Update your driver’s license. You have about 30 days from the time you move to update your driver’s license with the local DMV.

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Update your information with the credit card companies. Not only do you want to make sure your accounts are up to date, updating your address will also help in keeping your credit report updated.

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Update address with bank. Your bank accounts also need to have the correct information when it comes to your address. It is Federal Law.

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Update your mailing address. Contact the USPS (United States Post Office) to update your address and ensure your mail is forwarded from your previous address. You can do this online at USPS.com.

Home Warranties and Renter's Insurance

Once you've completed your move and addressed the essentials, it's crucial to safeguard your investment. Whether you're a homeowner or a renter, considering home warranty and renter's insurance is prudent.

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Homeowners should prioritize protecting their investment with long-term home maintenance strategies.

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Home warranties offer convenience and potential savings on major repairs beyond the manufacturer's warranty period. With an annual contract fee and a service fee typically ranging from $75 to $125 per claim, your property is shielded from unexpected expenses.

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Below are the top ten home warranty companies, along with a few others found online (not listed in any particular order):

 

  • Choice Home Warranty

  • America’s First Choice

  • Select Home Warranty

  • Total Protect

  • HSA

  • Old Republic

  • Guaranteed Home Warranty

  • Landmark Home Warranty

  • Stanley Safe Club

  • Allied Home Warranty

  • American Home Shield

  • BFS

Renters insurance has become standard practice when leasing an apartment, duplex, or home. Depending on your car insurance carrier, you may be able to add it to your policy for less than $15 a month.

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