The Relocation ‘Checklist From Hell’
Here's a comprehensive checklist to help with selling a house, minimizing possessions, arranging personal affairs, and preparing for relocation overseas. You’re welcome to call it ‘The Checklist from Hell’, as my guess; you’ll be ready to burn the house, possessions and documentation by the time you get on that flight!
1. Preparing the House for Sale
Hire a Real Estate Agent – Research and select an experienced agent.
Set a Selling Price – Have the property appraised and agree on a competitive price.
Declutter & Clean – Deep clean every room and clear out excess items to make the house more attractive to potential buyers.
Make Repairs – Fix any issues (e.g., leaky faucets, broken appliances) to increase appeal.
Stage the House – Consider staging to highlight the property’s best features.
Professional Photos – Arrange for professional photos to market the home.
Open Houses/Showings – Plan for open houses and private viewings.
Negotiate Offers – Review and respond to offers, and negotiate the best terms.
2. Minimizing Possessions
Sort Through Items – Go room by room and categorize items into “keep,” “donate,” “sell,” and “discard.”
Sell Items – Use online marketplaces (e.g., eBay, Facebook Marketplace) or hold a garage sale.
Donate Items – Find local charities or organizations that accept donations.
Dispose of Unwanted Items – Schedule a pick-up or take items to the local dump or recycling center.
Pack Items for Storage – Consider renting a storage unit for items you want to keep but won’t be taking overseas.
Organize Important Documents – Collect and safely store important documents (e.g., birth certificates, marriage licenses, financial records).
3. Arranging Personal Affairs
Update Will – Ensure your will reflects your current wishes, especially in terms of assets and guardianship.
Notify Authorities – Inform the local government and relevant agencies about your relocation (e.g., change of address, tax considerations).
Tax Considerations – Consult a tax professional to understand any implications of selling property and moving abroad.
Healthcare & Insurance – Research healthcare options in your destination country and arrange for any necessary coverage.
Settle Debts & Bills – Pay off any outstanding bills, and close accounts or transfer services to your new location.
Pensions & Investments – Consider how your pension, social security, or other investments will be impacted by your move.
Bank Accounts – Notify your bank of your move and explore options for international banking.
Set Up Power of Attorney – If necessary, appoint someone to manage your affairs while you’re abroad.
4. Planning the Relocation
Research Destination Country – Learn about living conditions, visas, residence requirements, cost of living, and cultural differences.
Apply for Visas & Permits – Apply for any necessary visas or residency permits for your destination.
Find Housing Abroad – Secure a place to live in the new country (temporary or permanent).
Arrange International Moving Services – Get quotes from international movers, and decide what you’ll bring with you vs. what you’ll leave behind.
Sort Out Shipping – Determine what items you’ll ship, including furniture, electronics, and personal belongings. Consider insurance for high-value items.
Confirm Travel Plans – Book your flight and finalize your travel dates.
Pet Arrangements – If applicable, make arrangements for your pet’s travel or rehoming.
Language Preparation – If necessary, take language classes or learn basic phrases for the destination country.
Financial Preparations – Research currency exchange rates, set up international bank accounts, and ensure you can easily transfer money to your new home country.
5. Final Tasks Before Departure
Cancel Local Subscriptions & Services – Cancel subscriptions, memberships, utilities, and other services in your current location.
Clean the House – Give the house a final clean before handing over the keys.
Hand Over Documents & Keys – Provide the new owner with necessary documents (e.g., house manuals) and keys.
Say Goodbye – Plan time to say goodbye to friends, neighbors, and any local contacts.
Keep Essentials with You – Pack a carry-on with essential items (documents, money, prescriptions, etc.) for the journey.
By following this checklist, you’ll be able to streamline your preparations and ensure that nothing important is overlooked as you transition to your new life abroad!
