Moving day will come sooner than you think, so get planning now.

Closing date and moving date aren't synonymous.

On closing, it's likely you won't get the keys to your new home until late in the day so it might make more sense to schedule the actual move for a day or so after closing.

Get packing

Whether you're getting the help of friends and family to move or hiring a professional, nobody will take the same care you will. Start early and spread it out over many days. Label all your boxes by room (and especially if the boxes carry anything fragile) so the movers know where to put them and how to treat the boxes.

All moved in

The boxes are mostly unpacked and you're settling in nicely. You will now feel a strange urge to begin making changes and improvements right away. Sure, that old carpet has to go and a bigger deck would be great for entertaining but slow down! Take the time to get a feel for your new home and, more importantly, your new budget. Take a deep breath and enjoy what you have: your new home.

Tip: If you intend to move at the end of the month, contact a moving company or truck rental company well in advance. If you can move mid-week or mid-month, your moving company might cut you a deal.

Bonus Tip: Moving into a new home is a chance to start fresh. Take the opportunity to purge by either hosting a garage sale or donating items you no longer use or need to charity.