2024 Home Seller's Guide - Georgia's Lake Country

Our Mission

To help others accomplish their goals through real estate.

Our Promise to You

The Vining Group is dedicated to selling our clients’ properties through a proven strategy and extensive buyer network. We educate clients on market conditions, advise on best return on investment, and maximize property exposure. Recognizing the importance of tech in today’s real estate market, we leverage it for our clients’ benefit while maintaining honest communication and providing regular success reports. Our expert negotiation skills help secure the best deal for our clients. We strive to earn your lifelong business through diligent and effective service.

We promise

• to work as a unified TEAM, ensuring smooth transactions and delivering a 5-star experience each time. Our focus? Keeping you at the heart of all communications.

• to adopt a solutions-based approach, proactively tackling problems and exceeding expectations by minimizing unexpected issues.

• to operate with utmost honesty and integrity, representing you at the highest level. Your trust in us is our top priority.

Our Core Values

Giving back. Growth oriented. Grit. Grace for others.

Notes from Our Team

As we step into 2024, we would like to highlight what makes The Vining Group at Keller Williams Lake Oconee truly stand out - our unbeatable experience in the region. Our team isn’t just seasoned; we are the most experienced in the area, surpassing any other team.

Our vast experience isn’t just a badge we wear proudly; it’s a testament to our proven results and the trust we’ve built with our clients. We’ve seen it all, navigated every turn, and have consistently come out on top. With every transaction, we bring to the table the wealth of knowledge that can only be gained through years of hands-on experience.

Why does this matter? Because when it comes to real estate, experience isn’t just about years in the business. It’s about understanding the local market, knowing the ins and outs of every neighborhood, and having the negotiation skills honed through hundreds of successful transactions. It’s about having the know-how to overcome challenges and deliver results, no matter the circumstances.

At The Vining Group, we don’t just aim to be the best; we strive to be the best for you. Our clients are at the heart of everything we do, and their satisfaction is our ultimate reward. We put your interests first, and we work tirelessly to ensure your real estate journey is smooth, successful, and tailored to your unique needs.

We look forwarding to serving you. Trust us to provide the best service, proven results, and a real estate experience that puts you first. Experience the difference with The Vining Group at Keller Williams Lake Oconee in 2024!

Get to Know Us

The Vining Group understands that selling a home entails more than just online listing and signage; it’s about providing superior service, communication, and accessibility. Our relationship with sellers is a partnership, both sharing the common goal of maximizing your property’s value in the shortest possible time, facilitating a smooth closing, and saving you time and stress. Our professional, dedicated team of full-time Realtors and support staff have been leading the Lake Oconee market since 2003, constantly adapting to the evolving real estate environment. Our commitment and results are reflected in our satisfied clients who continue to return and refer us. As the #1 team in Lake Country and proudly amongst the top 1% of Keller Williams North America, we put our expertise to work for you. The package we provide contains valuable information to guide you from listing to handing over the keys, and we’re eager to help you get your home SOLD!

Get to Know Us

POWERED BY KELLER WILLIAMS

With a global reputation for excellence, Keller Williams stands as the #1 real estate firm in the world, and also holds the top position in Atlanta. The immense reach and influence of Keller Williams grants us a unique advantage, as the largest percentage of our buyers originate from the metro Atlanta area. This allows us to network extensively and efficiently, accelerating the process of sales.

Closer to home, Keller Williams Realty Lake Oconee is at the forefront, selling more real estate per agent than any other franchise.

The secret behind the success? The Keller Williams business model. Designed for today’s dynamic real estate environment, it attracts the top producing agents, ensuring our clients receive the best service possible. As a part of Keller Williams, we have the resources and expertise to navigate any market conditions, delivering results that exceed expectations.

Experience the power of Keller Williams.

ADDITIONAL SERVICES

Whether you’re looking to buy, invest, or build, The Vining Group has got you covered! We offer comprehensive real estate services for home buyers, property management through our Lake Country Management Group, and custom home building with Horizon Luxury Homes.

ARE YOU A HORSE LOVER?

We are certified specialists in equestrian properties and would love to find you the perfect property for your horses.

Proven Results

LEADERS IN THE INDUSTRY

– Top 1% Keller Williams North America

– #1 Team in Lake Country

– Top ranked Keller Williams agents in the SE region

– Top 10 Keller Williams Shooting Star

– Ranked #1 among all KW teams in the Southeast

– Keller Williams Quadruple Gold Medallion for Production

– Keller Williams SE Top Producer Award

– International Diamond Society

– Voted The Best in Real Estate

– Lake Country Board of Realtors Phoenix Award

– Large Team Award – Lake Country Board of Realtors

YOUR TEAM

MARKETING COORDINATOR

will make sure that your home gets the most advertising exposure. Once your home is listed they will make sure your home is advertised in multiple digital and print media avenues and utilize tools such as email marketing, social media marketing, multiple listing services, real estate websites, in-house Buyers Guides, Lake Oconee print magazines, and more to make sure that your home’s marketing campaign is seen with the broadest possible professional exposure.

LISTING SPECIALISTS

are here for you every step of the way in your home selling process. We are your professional representative in all contract negotiations through closing. They will guide and advise you through the decisionmaking process.

BUYERS AGENTS

are dedicated experts ready to assist clients in their home-buying journey. We use our market knowledge to ensure that buyers are able to make informed decisions and find their dream home. We will negotiate, handle paperwork, and guide you through each step for a seamless, stress-free experience.

TRANSACTION COORDINATOR

will coordinate your contract paperwork and work with the lender and closing attorney to ensure you close on time. They meticulously schedule with vendors to prep your house, leveraging our extensive vendor list to address any necessary repairs. We take care of everything for you!

LISTING COORDINATOR

will guide you smoothly from preparing your home for the market, to when an offer is accepted. Before your home is listed, they will schedule professional photography, as well as coordinate lock box, sign installation, showing instructions, and open houses.

AGENT SALES TEAM

is composed of highly skilled lead generators, who are working hard every day by responding to leads, making prospecting calls, and screening potential property inquiries to ensure we’re not just finding buyers but finding you the right buyer.

DIRECTOR OF SERVICES

manages and oversees the team that works tirelessly to ensure your home is presented in the best light possible, coordinates marketing efforts, and ensures all paperwork is in order. They are responsible for ensuring every detail of your listing is professionally executed.

Meet the Team

Meet the Team

Support Team

Jonathan Vining Owner/Associate Broker

Adam Caldwell Realtor

Krista Campbell Executive Assistant

Alyce Vining Owner/Realtor/Appraiser

Carol Heppner Realtor

Brad Warnock Director of Sales & Marketing

Skip Hulsey Realtor

The Vining Group Difference

When you’re looking for a partner to help you negotiate the complexities of selling a home, you’ve come to the right place. The experience, dedication and strong communication you’ll receive here will help ensure the successful and profitable sale of your home:

KELLER WILLIAMS LUXURY INTERNATIONAL

A prestigious designation within an elite, global institution that ranks #1 in agent count, service, units, and sales volume. This three-decades-old institution provides exceptional training and resources to its chosen agents, including us, empowering us to deliver unparalleled service to our esteemed clients.

LOCAL EXPERTISE

Benefit from a diverse range of technologies and tools designed to support your home sale from beginning to end. Having lived and worked in the local real estate market since 2003, our team possesses in-depth knowledge of the community’s real estate dynamics. Let our local expertise work for you!

ONLINE ADVERTISING

With most home buyers initiating their search online, it’s crucial to achieve top rankings on search engines. Gain access to prime placement on Google, Bing, and various other websites. Our property listings are enhanced on Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com four MLS sites, and are also showcased on other local real estate websites. In addition, we augment all our online listings with comprehensive photography and video, including aerial shots and 3D tours when relevant.

EMAIL MARKETING

Leveraging our network is key. Together, we can pinpoint the ideal audience for your home and engage them to stir interest and excitement. With a proprietary database of over 7,000 contacts, we ensure your property and its features are brought to the attention of the right professionals who are actively working with buyers.

EXPANSIVE MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE PARTICIPATION

Joining Four Multiple Listing Services (MLS) offers an unparalleled opportunity to showcase property listings on local, regional, national, and global platforms. This expansive reach not only enhances market visibility, but also provides an invaluable resource of information, enabling us to serve our clients at an unprecedented level.

The Vining Group Difference

BUYERS GUIDE

We provide a comprehensive resource meticulously designed to simplify your home buying journey. It provides in-depth insights into market trends, property valuation, legalities, financial options, and other significant aspects of property purchase.

SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNELS

We utilize a variety of social media platforms to reach a wider audience. Your property will be showcased on popular channels like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and Pinterest. These platforms allow us to reach potential buyers locally, nationally and even globally. We also use these channels to engage with potential buyers, answer their questions and provide them with additional information about your property.

PERSONALIZED APPROACH

While technology is instrumental, it won’t sell your home alone. Personal interaction makes the difference in selling your home. Rest assured, every detail will be meticulously managed, with constant communication ensuring a seamless marketing and selling process. Expect regular updates on your listing’s activity and detailed online metrics for the various marketing tools we deploy.

PROFESSIONAL STAGING AND PHOTOGRAPHY

First impressions are everything. We provide professional staging advice and high-quality photos to highlight the best features of your home and attract potential buyers.

NEGOTIATION SKILLS

We have a proven track record of successful negotiations. We will fight for the best price and terms for you, ensuring a smooth and profitable sale of your home. Let our experience work for you!

EXTENSIVE NETWORK

We have a vast network of contacts within the real estate industry. This includes other real estate agents, potential buyers, and skilled professionals such as photographers, home inspectors, mortgage brokers, and professional vendors to assist with design consultation and any repairs needed.

COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE

We are dedicated to providing the highest level of service to our clients. Your satisfaction is our number one priority. We will work tirelessly to ensure the sale of your home is a successful and stress-free experience.

Join the family of satisfied homeowners who trust us with their real estate needs. Let us put our experience, dedication, and strong communication skills to work for you. We are confident that we can help you sell your home quickly and profitably.

So, whether you’re a first-time seller or a seasoned property owner, we’ve got you covered!

Reaching Buyers

Where buyers found the home they purchased

DIRECTLY FROM THE SELLERS/FSBO

Data from the National Association of Realtors® Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers

Reaching Buyers

POWERED BY

We Don’t Just List Your Property

We launch an extensive marketing campaign for each of our listings that goes above the competition. We have developed proprietarty business systems which we implement to ensure professionalism, consistency and RESULTS!

- Professional Photography

- Featured/Enhanced Website Listings

- Utilize 4 Multilple Listing Services (MLS)

- Luxury Print Advertising

- Board Open House

- Direct Mail

- Mass Emails to our Database of Real Estate Contacts (over 30K)

- Social Media Posting

- High End, Perfectly Placed Signage

- Local and Long Distance Networking

- & So Much More!

Is Internet Marketing Important? Studies show that 92% of Homebuyers search real estate on the internet.

- Does your property have the best presentation?

- Does your property have the broadest exposure?

- Are potential Buyers easily finding your property when they search?

Be assured the answer to these questions will be “YES” when listed with The Vining Group.

NATIONAL REACH. LOCAL RESULTS.

Invest in national, statewide, and local multiple listing services (MLS) to ensure the most global reach possible.

191K+ KELLER WILLIAMS AGENTS WORLDWIDE

45K+ STATEWIDE AGENTS (GEORGIA)

500+

500+

AGENTS IN THE LOCAL AREA (LAKE OCONEE & LAKE SINCLAIR)

NATIONAL REAL ESTATE WEBSITES

Client Testimonials

The Vining Group provided excellent service through extensive marketing, professional advice on pricing and an optimistic approach to the sale of our lake home. They provided excellent advice on improvements to make before we put the house on the market and helped us with a reliable list of service providers to make the improvements. They were always prompt in staying in touch and kept us updated on any activity. They were able to secure an offer on our house within days and they completed the negotiations with success.”

I have sold several homes in my life and have NEVER had the professional attitude and work ethic that I experienced with The Vining Group. They absolutely understand their market place, they’re receptive to ideas and always responsive when you call. We had brief difficulty near closing and they kept me appraised daily while they professionally handled all the problems. I NEVER worried when they were involved. I would highly recommend this team to anyone selling property on Lake Oconee!”

This is the third time we have done business with The Vining Group. The first in purchasing our condo in Cuscowilla, then selling it and assisting us in purchasing our lake home in Harbor Club. They are professional, timely and responsive. They also give you honest opinions and feedback. Our condo sold in less than 2 months. They do extensive marketing that gets results. The next time we need a Realtor, we will call them.”

Step 1

CHOOSE THE RIGHT AGENT

Choosing the right REALTOR® is a crucial step in your home selling process. You need a professional who is not only knowledgeable about the market, but also someone who understands your goals and can effectively promote your property.

When selecting a REALTOR®, consider their experience, credentials, and past performance. Look for someone with a strong track record in your specific area or property type. Check their online reviews and ask for references. The right REALTOR® should be able to provide a comprehensive marketing strategy, excellent negotiation skills, and a high level of customer service. Remember, this is a partnership. Choose a REALTOR® who respects your decisions and keeps you informed at every stage of the process and is experienced and honest.

The Vining Group understands that your property is more than just a property; it’s a significant investment and a cherished space. This is why we believe in a personalized approach, tailoring our services to meet your specific needs. Our experienced REALTORS® possess an in-depth knowledge of the market, a gift for negotiation, and a commitment to delivering superior client service. We go the extra mile to ensure your selling journey is seamless, stress-free and successful. Trust The Vining Group to help you maximize your home’s value and make your real estate dreams a reality. When you choose The Vining Group, you’re not just getting a single agent, but an entire dedicated team working tirelessly for your real estate needs.

Step 2 ESTABLISH

A PRICE

When it comes to selling your home, strategy is key. A crucial aspect of this strategy involves establishing the right price. To aid in this process, a detailed comparative analysis report (CMA) is compiled, which includes information on active properties as our direct competition and sold properties to indicate current market values and conditions. Key data points such as location, view, age, and memberships are taken into consideration.

Experience shows that the combination of this pricing approach and an extensive marketing plan will position your home as a highly appealing and competitive property in the market. The aim is to stand out from the competition and attract the attention of savvy buyers who have more access to data than ever before.

Pricing your home correctly from the get-go is essential. An overpriced home will neither sell nor appraise, whereas a home priced appropriately will generate more interest and offers, especially when it first hits the market. If priced at market value, your home will attract the most showings. Overpricing your home may necessitate a subsequent price drop to compete with newer, betterpriced listings. Remember, to sell your home quickly and for the most money, it should be priced “in the market.”

In this competitive environment, it’s essential to be competitive yourself.

Step 3 PRE-SALE HOME INSPECTION

A home inspection is a comprehensive assessment of a property’s condition. It’s a crucial step in the real estate transaction process that provides an in-depth look at a home’s systems and structure. This includes the condition of the property’s heating and cooling systems, plumbing, electrical work, water, and sewage systems, as well as some fire and safety issues.

Having a pre-sale home inspection can significantly optimize your home selling process. By identifying any potential issues upfront, you are afforded the opportunity to address them before listing your property. This not only helps in setting the price but also increases buyer confidence and expedites the selling process. A pre-inspected home is a transparent home, making it more appealing to potential buyers and giving you an edge in a competitive market. The Vining Group handles and manages any issues proactively with our extensive network.

Step 4

PREPARE TO LIST

Preparing your home for a listing can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! Following a simple guide can ensure that you present your home in the best light possible, showcasing its full potential to potential buyers. From sprucing up your exteriors to making your interiors appealing, every little detail counts. Here’s a handy guide to help you prepare your home to list for optimal selling:

Exterior:

● Regularly mow your lawn to keep the grass freshly cut

● Remove all yard clutter for a clean, tidy look

● Apply fresh paint to wooden fences for enhanced curb appeal

● Give your front door a fresh coat of paint or stain

● Weed and apply fresh mulch or pine straw to your garden beds

● Clean windows inside and out for a sparkling finish

● Pressure wash or paint your home’s exterior for a fresh, appealing look

● Tighten and clean all door handles for a neat appearance

● Ensure your gutters and downspouts are firmly attached and functioning well

● Continuously keep an eye out for other needed upkeep

Interior:

● Declutter your space by removing excessive wall hangings, furniture, and knick knacks

● Consider renting a temporary storage unit for storing unnecessary items

● Clean or paint your walls and ceilings for a fresh, clean look

● Shampoo your carpets for a neat, well-maintained look

● Clean and organize your cabinets and closets

● Repair all plumbing leaks, including faucets and drain traps

● Ensure all light fixtures are clean and working properly

Step 5 HOME STAGING

Preparation is key when it comes to selling your home and making it stand out among the rest. One of the crucial steps in this process is home staging, which is much more than just a fresh coat of paint. To ensure your property is showcased in its absolute best light, we offer a HOME STAGING CONSULTATION. Our team, brimming with knowledge and expertise, will provide you with the best advice or may even suggest a professional home stager to get your home ready for sale.

Our aim is not just to make your home look its best, but to attract the right buyers. To do this, we focus on making your home “show” ready, ensuring it appeals to the maximum number of potential buyers. Remember, your home needs to not just look good, but also feel welcoming and inviting. With our guidance and the right staging, your home’s true potential can be unveiled, making it a hot property on the market.

Step 6

PROFESSIONAL IMAGERY AND VIDEOGRAPHY

A picture is worth a thousand words, and in real estate, professional photography can be worth thousands of dollars. High-quality, professional photos highlight the best features of your property and make the first impression that can attract potential buyers. They create a compelling visual story about your home that can make it stand out in the crowded real estate market.

At The Vining Group, we understand the importance of this crucial step, which is why we offer professional photography services as part of our listing package. When you choose to list with us, our team ensures your property is showcased in its best light, capturing the interest and imagination of buyers. Optimal selling begins with stunning imagery, and that’s precisely what we deliver at The Vining Group.

We also offer a custom professional video tour. This immersive experience gives potential buyers a comprehensive view of your property, stirring their interest and making your home unforgettable. Our advanced aerial videography technology offers a unique experience to prospective buyers by virtually transporting them to the property. This innovative approach provides a distinct advantage to our sellers by making a powerful and lasting impression.

Choose The Vining Group for a superior real estate experience - where we make your home the star of the show!

Step 7

MARKETING YOUR HOME

Strategically marketing properties is key in the digital era, where most prospective buyers begin their home search online. This is why we have expanded our reach by joining four Multiple Listing Services (MLS), offering an unparalleled opportunity to showcase property listings on local, regional, national, and global platforms. Not only does this expansive reach enhance market visibility, it also provides an invaluable reservoir of data, enabling us to serve our clients at an unprecedented level.

Our diverse marketing strategies are designed to highlight the unique features of each property through high-resolution photos, aerial views, captivating videography, and engaging property descriptions. By utilizing social media marketing, print publications, our company website, and direct mail marketing, we are able to reach a broad audience. Our ultimate goal is to not only sell the property, but to ensure it fetches the best possible price. Trust The Vining Group to make this happen.

As a member of the prestigious Keller Williams real estate franchise and Luxury Homes by Keller Williams, we have access to an extensive network of potential buyers. We also leverage our partnership with platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, Trulia, and many others to generate leads.

Our marketing strategy includes Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and Search Engine Management (SEM/PPC). By strategically using keywords, phrases, and paid advertising, we ensure that our properties are easily discoverable by potential buyers on various search engines, leading to increased traffic and a faster sale.

Additionally, we utilize our substantial database of potential buyers through effective email marketing, enabling us to target specific buyer profiles most likely to be interested in the property.

In conclusion, The Vining Group’s marketing strategy ensures properties get noticed by the right people, at the right time, and in the right way. Our expansive MLS participation and enhanced partner programs are just a few ways we present properties in the best possible light and secure the best deals.

Step 8

OFFER CONSIDERATIONS AND NEGOTIATIONS

The Vining Group ensures you will get the most money for your property, with the fewest hassels, in the least amount of time. Keep in mind that experience is paramount in maximizing your return on investment. It helps you dodge unexpected obstacles that might delay closings or lead to expensive problems.

When you receive an offer on your home, there are several factors to consider.

- First and foremost is the offer price, i.e., the amount the buyer is willing to pay for your property.

- Terms of the offer and any special stipulations play a large role in the overall offer.

- The earnest deposit is a good faith amount submitted by the buyer to show their serious intent to purchase.

- Consideration should also be given to who will cover closing costs, which are fees associated with finalizing the sale.

- The type of loan the buyer is using to finance their purchase can also impact the sale. For example, VA and FHA loans may have specific requirements that must be met before closing.

- Contingencies are conditions that must be met for the transaction to proceed, such as the home passing an inspection or the buyer securing financing.

- A cash offer, where the buyer pays the full purchase price upfront without a loan, can often expedite the process.

- Lastly, consider the proposed closing time. This is the date on which the buyer wishes to finalize the purchase and take possession of the property.

- Experience ensures that The Vining Group will guide you through the process avoiding pitfalls and overcoming the unforseen.

Step 9

THE OFFER PROCESS

Once you have considered all aspects of the offer, The Vining Group will guide you through the process of responding. This could mean accepting the offer, rejecting it, or making a counteroffer.

- We will handle all negotiation and paperwork related to the offer, including inspections, appraisals, and loan processes.

- We will also manage any Homeowner’s Association paperwork and direct necessary documentation to the closing attorney, title company, co-op agent, or an unrepresented buyer.

- We will provide contact information for utilities, vendors for repairs, insurance requirements, and tax information.

- If necessary, we will arrange a final inspection and walkthrough of the property.

- Throughout the process, we will keep you well informed and review the Settlement Statement with you in advance whenever possible.

- Our team will also attend closing to ensure a smooth transition and the transfer of keys.

- With The Vining Group, you can rest assured that we will be with you every step of the way, from accepting an offer to closing the sale.

Step 10 PRE-CLOSING

1. Home Inspection: This is essentially a thorough check of your property’s condition. A professional home inspector examines your home to identify any potential issues that might affect the sale. They will scrutinize everything from your roof to your foundation, including electrical systems, plumbing, and heating and cooling systems. It’s important to keep in mind that an inspection doesn’t just point out flaws; it also highlights the positives of the property and can even provide useful maintenance tips.

2. Appraisal: This is a formal assessment of your property’s value, conducted by a licensed appraiser. The appraisal process involves a detailed inspection of your home and a comparison of your property to similar properties that have recently sold in your area. The goal is to determine the market value of your home, which is critical for your buyer’s mortgage lender. The appraised value can influence the amount of money a lender is willing to loan a potential buyer.

3. Negotiations: This is the stage where you, as the seller, and the potential buyer try to agree on the terms of the sale. This includes the selling price, closing date, and any contingencies or conditions that need to be met before the sale is final. This process could involve several rounds of offers and counteroffers. At The Vining Group, we are skilled and experienced negotiators and will work diligently to ensure that the terms of the sale are in your best interest.

4. Final Walk Through: This is the last chance for the buyer to walk through the property before the sale is finalized, typically occurring a day or two before closing. It’s an opportunity for the buyer to ensure the home is in the agreedupon condition, that any agreed-upon repairs have been made, and that no new issues have arisen. As a seller, it’s important to leave the home in clean condition, with all fixtures and appliances in working order, to ensure a smooth final walkthrough and closing process.

At The Vining Group, we guide you through each of these steps, keeping you informed and prepared.

Step 11

CLOSING DAY

On behalf of The Vining Group, we believe that being well-informed is key to a smooth and successful home sale journey. With that said, we’ve prepared a short guide to help you understand what to expect on the closing day of your real estate transaction.

WHAT TO BRING TO THE CLOSING

- A valid government-issued picture ID

- House keys

- Garage door opener(s)

- Any other spare keys related to your property

WHAT TO EXPECT

The closing process, also known as settlement, is when the sale of your home is finalized and everything becomes official. This is when the buyer receives the deed to your home, and you get paid. The closing attorney plays a crucial role during this process. They will:

- Look over the purchase contract and identify what payments are owed and by whom

- Prepare documents for the closing

- Conduct the closing

- Ensure that taxes, title searches, real estate commissions and other closing costs are paid

- Ensure that the buyer’s title is recorded

- Ensure that you receive any monies due to you

YOUR COSTS

As a seller, you are commonly expected to pay the following at closing:

- Mortgage balance and prepayment penalties, if applicable

- Other claims against your property, such as unpaid property taxes

- Unpaid special assessments on your property

- Real estate commission

- Title insurance policy

AFTER THE CLOSING

For future tax purposes, ensure you keep copies of:

- All closing documents

- All home improvement receipts on the home you sold

Remember, The Vining Group is here to guide you through every step of the home selling process. Closing day is a significant milestone, but with the right preparation, it can be seamless and rewarding.

Moving Checklist

Remember, moving doesn’t have to be stressful when you’re well prepared. Here at The Vining Group, we’re here to help guide you through the process. Keep this checklist handy and you’ll be on the move without a hitch in no time.

TRANSFER / CANCEL ALL RELEVANT ACCOUNTS, RECORDS, AND / OR SERVICES:

● Utilities: Electric, Gas, Water, Sewer, Trash

● Cable, Telephone, Newspaper, Lawn Services

● Car Registration, Driver’s License

● Postal Service

● Update Contacts with New Address

● Bank Accounts, Safe Deposit Box

● Insurance Policies: Property, Auto, Medical

● Alarm/Security Company

● Voter Registration

● Medical Providers (Keep at least 2 weeks of prescription medicine)

● Veterinarian

● Health Clubs

● Children’s Schools, Daycare Centers

SORT YOUR BELONGINGS:

● Separate what you’ll take and what you’ll leave behind.

● Make a list, catalog valuables (photos recommended).

● Consider renting a movable storage unit.

● Decide how to get rid of unwanted items.

GET PACKING:

● Collect Packing Materials or Let Movers Handle It.

● Disassemble Furniture, Pack Household Items.

● Schedule Movers.

● Keep Completed Bill of Lading from Movers.

● Recycle Flammable Materials.

LAST-MINUTE DETAILS:

● Service Car for Long Distance Travel.

● Arrange Accommodations.

● Plan for Pet Care.

● Double-Check All Areas for Forgotten Items.

● Ensure All Systems and Lights are Off Before Locking Up.

SETTLEMENT PREPARATION:

● Maintain Homeowner’s Insurance for 2-3 Days after Settlement.

● Leave Appliance Manuals, Warranty Info, Spare Keys.

● Ensure House is “Broom Clean” for Buyer’s Walkthrough.

● Bring Photo ID to Settlement.

● Check Condo/Co-op Moving Rules if Applicable.

BEFORE YOU MOVE, CONTACT:

Utilities:

● Electric

● Telephone

● Water

● Cable

● Gas

● Internet

Professional Services:

● Broker

● Accountant

● Doctor

● Dentist

● Lawyer

Government:

● IRS

● Post Office

● Schools

● State Licensing

● Voting Office

● Veterans Administration

Clubs:

● Health & Fitness

● Country Club

Insurance Companies:

● Accidental

● Auto

● Health

● Home

● Life

● Renters

Business Accounts:

● Banks

● Cellular Phone

● Department Stores

● Credit Cards

Subscriptions:

● Magazines

● Newspapers

Miscellaneous:

● Business Associates

● House of Worship

● Drug Store

● Dry Cleaner

● Hair Stylist

A smooth move is all about preparation.

Good luck from all of us at The Vining Group!