Getting to Know the Area
Considering that most New York streets are considerably small, it is quite possible that you won’t be able to get your moving truck down the street. If this is the case, inform the moving company ahead of time that they may have some trouble maneuvering down the street. This will ensure they can make proper adjustments beforehand. Most long distance moving companies may need the use of a smaller truck or a shuttle truck.
Reading the parking signs in New York is extremely important. Parking on the wrong side of the street or being illegally parked at the wrong time can cost you. You can be heavily fined or even worse, towed. Before moving date, scope out the area to get a better understanding of what you are capable of doing during the moving process. Some buildings have move-in/move-out times that will give you elevator and parking access without any hassle. Check with the leasing office or building manager to make sure.
If you are moving from one city to the next in the state of New York, you can verify that a moving company is licensed by the Commissioner of Transportation by calling (800) 786-5368, or e-mailing the agency at nymoving@dot.state.ny.us.
Switching Your License
Moving to New York comes with making sure you have proper identification. Within 30 days of your residence, you must get a New York State driver license if you plan on driving around town. Even though a New York state license is required, the state of New York recognizes valid driver licenses held by residents of other US states, territories, federal districts, and Canadian provinces.
Easily exchanging an out-of-state driver or Canadian driver license for a NYS driver license is fairly easy. Here are some resources to help speed up the process of switching your license:
Commuting in New York
If you have never been to New York, traveling around can seem overwhelming. Contrary to popular belief, New York is one of the most convenient cities to maneuver in. With continuous trains, buses, and taxi cabs, it is almost impossible not to get from point A to point B no matter the time of day.
The biggest question that people ask themselves once they have moved to New York is “will I need my car?”. With convenient access to trains, buses, and cabs, it may make sense for you to get rid of your vehicle if you find yourself not driving as much as you used to. Getting rid of your vehicle can save you a good deal of money on car insurance and gas if you made the decision to sell your car. After all, you could utilize those funds towards rent if you have to.
Most parts of New York is known for having limited parking along with the cost of parking if you are able to find parking. If you can avoid driving, take public transportation.
Finding the Right Neighborhood
Like any other city, finding a suitable neighborhood to come home to every day is important. There are some important factors that play a part in the decision making. Finding a place within your budget, that’s safe, and convenient to work and play are usually the most important.
Finding a place that is right for you can seem overwhelming hearing such stats. Not to worry, there are several brokers and apartment finder resources to help you find the right place for you.
Here are some other great ways to find a home in New York:
Brokers - One of the most common methods of finding an apartment in New York is using a real estate broker. If you know what neighborhood you want to live in, it's usually best to find a broker based there. Many brokers also have Web sites where you can view available apartments, sometimes even with photos and detailed descriptions. If you have decided to use a broker, keep in mind that you will probably have to pay a brokers fee which usually one month’s rent.
Word-of-Mouth – If you know someone who currently lives in New York, getting references from them could help out substantially. Finding an apartment through word of mouth is a lot cheaper than using a broker. Ask your friends and family if they can provide any help with your search.
Classified Ads -Another common method used by movers is using the classified ads. Movers have been known to use the New York Times, the Village Voice, Newsday, the Daily News, and local or community papers. Make sure to check out the web sites of local papers and online message boards like newyork.craigslist.org.
Apartment Referral Service - For the savvy hunters who are comfortable searching the Internet, there is an apartment referral service. For a monthly fee, referral services will provide you with a list of no-fee apartment rentals as they become available.
Get on Waiting Lists - Affordable housing is often offered through waiting lists or application lotteries. If you have time before you need to move, put your name on waiting lists and/or fill out applications for affordable housing through the NYC Department of Housing Preservation & Development (HPD), the New York City Housing Development Corporation (HDC), or the NYC Housing Authority (NYCHA).
Apartment Guides – You can always rely on resources like ForRent.com. These general references are great for apartment hunting right from your computer.
The most important part about finding the right home for you is making sure are prepared. In order to move in, you will need to have at least two month’s rent plus the security deposit (usually one month’s rent). Be prepared to cover the fees associated with moving.
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Moving Tips