A move involves more than packing boxes. For homeowners buying or selling in Encino, Tarzana and Sherman Oaks, the practical plan should connect possession arrangements, building access, movers, service appointments and the documents you need on moving day.
Use the sequence below as a planning framework. Confirm the actual dates and conditions with the parties involved before making commitments that depend on access to the property.
Start with possession and access
Ask your agent to clarify the difference between a transaction milestone, the agreed possession arrangement and the time you may bring movers or deliveries to the property. Keep the confirmed plan in writing. If you are coordinating a sale and purchase, map both addresses and the order of events.
Check the physical approach as well: driveway dimensions, stairs, elevator access and the route for large furniture. For a condominium or controlled-access property, ask the association or manager about moving reservations, entry procedures and any requirements that apply to your move.
Create one moving coordination sheet
| Task | Confirmation needed | Record in your plan |
|---|---|---|
| Property access | When access and possession are authorized. | Confirmed date, contact and any condition that must be satisfied. |
| Mover arrival | Access route, scope of work and service arrangements. | Written estimate, contact details and arrival instructions. |
| Building arrangements | Any reservation or entry procedure relevant to the property. | Manager contact and confirmation of the agreed arrangements. |
| Utilities and deliveries | Provider, service address and appointment availability. | Requested dates, confirmation numbers and follow-up tasks. |
| Keys and equipment information | The agreed handover plan. | Who provides each item and what remains outstanding. |
Research movers before choosing a service
Describe the items, access conditions and services you need so estimates can be compared on a similar basis. Ask who will perform the move, what is included, how changes are handled and which documents you should review before signing. Keep copies of the agreed scope and contact details.
For an interstate move, use the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s moving checklist and its mover-selection resources. These federal resources address interstate moving; confirm the appropriate requirements separately for a move entirely within California.
Coordinate utilities and address updates
Confirm the provider for the specific address instead of assuming every service transfers automatically. For an address in LADWP’s service territory, the official start-service page and stop-service page are starting points for electricity and water arrangements. Confirm which services are included and the dates that fit your possession plan.
Use the USPS mail-forwarding and change-of-address guidance for postal arrangements. Make a separate list of organizations that need your updated address directly, including providers connected with the property. Keep account information in a secure place rather than in a moving box that others can easily access.
Pack a first-day essentials kit
- Identification, keys, confirmed access information and the contacts you need during the move.
- Essential medication, chargers, basic toiletries and clothing for the first night.
- Items needed to care for pets or dependents during the transition.
- A small set of cleaning supplies and basic household items you can locate immediately.
- Copies of the practical moving plan, with sensitive financial information stored separately.
Label boxes by destination room and record any item that needs special handling. Discuss the plan for valuables and fragile items with the mover. Keep the paths used during the move clear and avoid leaving important documents in a pile of packing materials.
Close the loop at both addresses
Review the agreed handover items and the areas you are leaving. Confirm which keys, remotes, manuals or other items belong with the property. Keep a record of outstanding questions and the person who will address them.
At the destination, follow the documented delivery process and raise damage or missing-item concerns through the mover’s procedures. Record the locations of equipment information and service contacts so you can find them after the first day.
Moving questions buyers and sellers often ask
Can I schedule deliveries before closing?
Do not assume that a planned closing date authorizes access. Confirm the possession and entry arrangements with the appropriate parties before scheduling a delivery that depends on them.
What if I am buying and selling at the same time?
Use the purchase-and-sale planning checklist to identify linked dates, possible gaps and the professional conversations needed before making commitments.
What should I do before the final property visit?
Prepare the agreements and questions relevant to your transaction. The final walk-through checklist helps organize that separate review.
Discuss the property and your next decision
For a home in Encino, Tarzana or Sherman Oaks, bring the address, your move timing and the questions you want to resolve. Contact Romina Ahdoot or call 818-381-3757. Explore the real estate learning center for related guides.
General planning information from LA Luxury Houses. Your contract, property and circumstances determine the appropriate next steps; consult the qualified professionals involved. Romina Ahdoot · Equity Union · DRE #02061222.