Many buildings or homes are unwelcoming to tenants with pets, or only accepting of certain kinds. Many buildings have restrictions on the breed or weight of the animal, or limits on the number per apartment. Apartment hunters should be sure to mention they have a pet (or pets) and ask about the community’s pet policy.  

This guide will cover what you need to know when moving with a furry friend and offer ideas for finding the right place for everyone concerned. 

4 Things to Know When Moving With Pets

You should factor in your lifestyle as well as that of your pet when searching for a new home. In addition to making sure your new home is pet friendly, there are other logistics that require planning when moving with an animal (or two) from one place to another. 

1. Consider Your Pet’s Needs

Maybe you have a dog that needs outdoor space to run around. Maybe you need a designated space for your cat toys and scratching post. A larger animal will likely need more indoor space than a smaller breed. Make a list of your requirements and keep these in mind when searching for apartments. Some places even offer pet-centric amenities such as dog grooming stations, dog runs, and special events for pet owners. 

2. Research the Surrounding Area

You may have found an ideal apartment in a pet-friendly building, but you’ll also want to consider the location. You might check whether there is a park or dog run nearby, or a veterinarian or doggy day care in the neighborhood. Proximity to these and other services are important and could be a deciding factor if you’re weighing the pros and cons of more than one apartment. 

3. Read the Fine Print of Your New Home’s Pet Policy

Be sure to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations that apply to pets at your new home. If there’s a pet policy mentioned in your lease, make sure you understand all the finer points. If you have questions, be sure to address them in advance to avoid any surprises after moving in. 

4. Moving With a Pet Can Mean Additional Expenses

Some buildings charge an extra one-time security deposit for a pet, and some landlords add additional fees to the monthly rent. Be prepared in either case to pay a bit extra for your furry companions. Those moving a long distance may need to use a pet transport service, which will be an additional charge beyond regular moving services.

Taking your needs and your pet’s needs into account, and being realistic about the costs involved when moving with a pet, will help guide you in your search for the perfect animal-friendly home. 

Tips for a Successful Move With Your Pet

Moving is hectic enough without also having to worry about your pet. With some extra planning, you can help make sure the transition is a smooth one for both you and your animal companions. Keep these tips in mind to make moving with your pet a breeze:

Keep Calm 

Pets can sense anxiety in their owners, and it causes them to be anxious along with you. Packing up and moving can be stressful, but if you stay peaceful around your pet, chances are they’ll remain calm as well. 

Have Your Pet Explore Its Carrier 

Pets that will be transported in a kennel or crate will be more relaxed if you have them spend a few nights in the kennel prior to moving day. This will get them acclimated to the space and make things more comfortable and familiar.

Send Pets Elsewhere During Loading 

The activity, and perhaps extra people, involved on moving day can cause a pet to panic or become overly excited. Send your pet to doggy day care, if possible, or keep them in a space away from all the action. 

Prepare an “Overnight Kit” 

Pack a bag with enough food, cat litter, toys, medicines, and other essentials to get you through the first few days of unpacking. This will avoid having to search for these items when you arrive at your new home. 

Settle Into Your New Digs 

Make sure your pet has its own space in your new home with familiar toys, blankets, or other accessories. Confine them to a certain room or section of your home while they get adjusted to the new environment, if possible. 

Even the above ideas aren’t guaranteed to make moving with pets a breeze, so make sure you give your pet as much attention as possible. One way to do that is to explore your surroundings with your pet. If you’ve got a dog, check out dog parks in your area. (If you’re in Washington, D.C., here are the best dog-friendly greenspaces). 

Your Go-To Team for a Pet-Friendly Apartment in D.C.

At The Vintage, we welcome your pets with open arms. Residents love our pet-friendly community in some of the area’s top neighborhoods. Read more about our pet policy here. 

We offer a variety of floor plans to suit a range of needs for both you and your four-legged friends. Contact The Vintage today, and we’ll help you and your pets find your ideal home.

The post Tips for Making Your Move With Pets Hassle-Free appeared first on The Vintage on 16th.

It is best to take care of changing your address sooner rather than later to be sure you receive all your mail at the appropriate place. Here is how to update your address at the post office, and other businesses you will need to contact.

Updating Your Mailing Address: The Post Office and Beyond

Your first thought about changing your address might be to notify the post office. This is a crucial step, but it’s only one of many. 

Changing your address with the post office is a simple procedure that can be done online, in person or over the phone. You should also plan to update your address with your employer, your bank, and your insurance company, among other institutions. 

Online

You can update your mailing address with the United States Postal Service by visiting their website and filling out their online form. Completing your change of address online is the quickest and easiest way to update your address. The post office can begin forwarding mail to your new home once you’ve completed the form. Here are a few things to keep in mind about the process:

1. Have Both Your Current and New Address On Hand
   You will be asked to provide your current address as well as the address of the place you are moving to. 

2. Know Your Move-In Date
   You will be asked for a start date for the mail forwarding service. You can list the day you plan to move or even a few days before if you’d like your mail to be rerouted sooner. 

3. Have Your Credit Card Ready
   USPS charges a fee of $1.05 when you update your address online.

   

4. Make the Change for Family Members
   You can update the mailing address of other family members at the same time if you share the same last name. You will need to fill out a separate form for each person who has a different last name.

5. Update Your Voter Registration Information
   After you have filled out the online change-of-address form, you will also have the option to update your voter registration information. 

In Person

You can stop by your nearest post office and request a moving packet in person. Inside the packet you’ll find PS Form 3575. Fill out this form and return it to the post office worker or drop it in the mail slot. 

If you change your address in person, you will not be charged the $1.05 verification fee. You can expect a confirmation letter at your new mailing address within five business days. 

Over the Phone

It’s also possible to update your mailing address over the phone. Call 800-ASK-USPS and follow the prompts. USPS will charge a $1.05 fee for address changes made over the phone. 

Additional Places to Update Your Mailing Address

There are other important institutions and vendors who need to know about your new address. You may need to contact the following with your new contact info:

• Your Bank
  In most cases, a change of address can be completed online. Check your bank’s website or call your local branch for more information on updating your contact information.

  

• Your Employer
  Contact your manager or your company’s human resources department. Let them know you’re moving to a new address and that all relevant communications should be sent to your new home. 

• Other Lending Institutions
  Notify any lending institutions of your new address so you don’t miss any important communications regarding a mortgage, car loan, or other loan. 

• Your Insurance Company
  Let your insurance company know about your upcoming move if you’ve got a homeowner’s insurance policy, an auto policy, personal property insurance, or renter’s insurance. In most cases, policies can easily be transferred to your new address.

• Utility Companies
  Contact utility companies to close out your account for your former home and transfer service to your new address, if applicable, so they can send you any relevant paperwork such as final bills or confirmation of canceled service.

• Recurring Vendor Shipments
  Any vendors that are sending you recurring shipments, such as a monthly subscription service, should be on your address update list, and you’ll have to contact each one individually. Most of the time, this can be done online or via email. Call the vendor directly with any questions. 

• Department of Motor Vehicles
  Contact your local DMV to update your address on your driver’s license and your motor vehicle registration. In most cases, this can be completed online. Many states require you to update your license within 30 days of moving to your new address. 

There are many organizations that will need to know your new contact info, so this list is only a first step. Changing your address with each one is usually a quick process that only takes a few minutes, so it’s best to think through who else needs your contact info and get them updated quickly. 

Looking for a New Home in Washington, D.C.?

The Vintage on 16th can help you with your housing needs if you’re selling your home or moving out of a rental property to D.C. from another city, or if you’re a local hoping to change neighborhoods or upgrade your space. We’re a pet-friendly community with a range of floor plans, from studios to three-bedrooms, all in stunning modern design with high-end amenities. 

Contact The Vintage on 16th if you’re ready to find your ideal apartment in the historic Mt. Pleasant neighborhood.

The post Moving? Here’s How to Change Your Mailing Address appeared first on The Vintage on 16th.