STEPS TO MOVING OUT

GET YOUR TIMELINE IN ORDER

Once the paperwork is signed at closing, the buyers will officially own the house ... and you won’t. That means that, technically, if you or your stuff is still there after the close. Therefore if you need more time to move be sure to discuss these issues as soon as possible before the close, so your buyers can plan accordingly.

DECIDE WHAT TO LEAVE BEHIND

There should be an itemized list of what comes with the house. And even if the buyers didn’t formally request this, it’s just good form to leave certain types of things behind. If you do inadvertently take an item that the buyers had requested, they have the right to ask for it back. But a good rule of thumb is if it’s screwed in, it stays.

CLEAN UP

Its common courtesy to leave the place not only clear of your possessions, but also clean. That means wiping down the countertops, cleaning out drawers, sweeping or vacuuming all the floors, and giving the bathroom and kitchen appliances a once-over so the new owners aren’t grossed out when they arrive.

WAIT! ARE YOU FORGETTING ANYTHING?

Before you close the door for the last time, run through a quick checklist. Did you eyeball every room for stray items? Have you forwarded your mail and turned off the utilities? Is the water running in the pool? Once you feel ready, it’s time to leave.

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