Eight to twelve weeks out
Define the move brief: target date, total housing budget, recurring destinations, property requirements, and acceptable tradeoffs. If buying, begin financing and attorney conversations earlier. If renting, prepare documents now even though the most relevant inventory may appear closer to the move date.
Four to six weeks out
Confirm the search strategy, shortlist neighborhoods, compare realistic commute times, and interview movers. Gather building requirements before accepting a quote. Decide what will be sold, donated, stored, or moved so estimates are based on a real inventory.
Two to three weeks out
Once housing is secured, coordinate insurance, elevator reservations, utilities, address changes, and delivery timing. Read the lease or closing instructions carefully. Keep a written list of payments, contacts, confirmation numbers, and access arrangements.
Moving week and the first days
Photograph the condition of the home, test essential systems, confirm keys and building access, and keep receipts. Learn the trash, package, laundry, maintenance, and visitor procedures. A calm first week is more valuable than trying to furnish and perfect everything immediately.