important things to do

Moving to a new town can be an exciting adventure finding a place to live, meeting new people and learning your way around. There is much to look forward to during, and after the physical move—unpacking in your new home and setting up your new life. To make the transition smoother for you, here’s a checklist of 10 important things to do when you move.

1. setup Utilities

To give utility companies ample notice, call and schedule transfers 1-2 weeks before your closing date. We recommend scheduling utilities to begin in your name on the date you close. The Missouri Real Estate Sales Contract requires Sellers to “arrange, at Seller’s expense, to have all utilities turned on through closing (unless utilities have been transferred to Buyer).” You may also wish to call in advance to order services like Internet, satellite TV, lawncare, and trash. If you’re purchasing a home in a neighborhood with an HOA, check and see if trash service is included in your monthly or annual dues.

To find out which utility companies and providers service the property you’re buying, check the Seller Disclosures or ask us and we’ll provide the information for you. Here are some of the main utility companies and service providers in our area:

Electric / Natural Gas / Water / Sewer:

Propane Power:

Trash Collection:

Internet & TV:

Home Security:

2. change your address

Go online to USPS Mover’s Guide and schedule your change of address.

3. Rekey Locks & REPROGRAM access codes

After closing on the purchase of your new home, rekey the standard locks and change the code on your garage door keypad, keyless entry or fingerprint door locks. Rekeying your standard locks is not that expensive and will give you peace of mind knowing only those you’ve given a housekey to will have access to your home. To change your garage door code follow the instructions on the inside of the keypad cover, in your garage door manual, or go online and search how to change the garage code for the model of your garage door opener. Some garage door openers are Wi-Fi enabled and can be operated from an app on your phone. If your home has a Ring Doorbell or similar technology, remember to ask the Seller to reset the device so you can go online, create an account and configure the device.

Here’s a couple locksmiths you might consider to rekey your new home:

4. Obtain new vehicle plates and driver’s license

When moving to the area from out of state, you have 30 days to obtain Missouri license plates and a Missouri driver’s license. Our favorite DMV license office is the Ozark and Nixa locations for licensing vehicles, renewing plates and licenses, and the Nixa Testing Center for the driver’s test. Here are some local DMV locations to choose from or visit office locator for all Missouri locations:

Additional Resources:

5. Contact the County Assessor's Office

The county in which you reside will mail you a Real Estate tax bill and Personal Property tax bill each November with payments due by the end of December. When you move to Missouri or relocate to a different county, contact the Assessor’s Office in that county and request/submit a Personal Property assessment sheet before March 1 to avoid a penalty.

6. contact your home owners association

If your neighborhood has an HOA, be sure to ask the Seller for the HOA contact information. Contact the HOA and give them your name, phone and email, and the property address you purchased. Ask about the availability of a neighborhood directory or social media page, and for information about neighborhood amenities and events. It’s also important to know the date, time and location of your next HOA meeting and make plans to attend.

7. meet your neighbors

Building relationships with neighbors can be mutually beneficial like watching each other’s property and collecting mail when traveling, carpooling kids, and assistance with maintenance, repairs and improvement projects around your home. Whether you’re outgoing or an introvert, there are plenty of opportunities to introduce yourself. Here’s a few ideas to get the creative juices flowing:

  • Have a garage sale

  • Walk or run the neighborhood

  • Walk your kids to the bus stop

  • Leave a card introducing yourself

  • Plan a pet playdate

  • Ask for advice

  • Lend a helping hand

  • Host a meet and greet

  • Get involved in the HOA or volunteer for neighborhood projects

  • Ask neighbors to introduce you to other neighbors

  • Connect on social media

  • Attend a neighborhood meeting

  • Send a welcome gift to other new neighbors

  • Throw a housewarming party

8. Register to vote

There are several locations designated as permanent voter registration sites in each county including schools, libraries, colleges and universities, city halls, county clerk’s office, courthouse, and any DMV location. In Greene County, the deadline to register to vote prior to any given election is 28 days.

9. Get acquainted with the area

There are many resources available to help you get acquainted with your new home and community. Visit More Communities and click the community you’re moving to for resources. Here are some additional links we hope you’ll find helpful:

Publications / Radio / Television:

The Library:

United States Post Office:

10. Recycle

Get familiar with your local recycling centers and help keep Missouri clean. You will find Springfield and surrounding areas have numerous recycling centers available for plastics, paper and cardboard, metal, household chemicals, yardwaste, and more.