LAS VEGAS MOVING CHECKLIST
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Relocating to Southern Nevada
Moving to Las Vegas is exciting.
But relocation can also become overwhelming very quickly because you’re not just moving your belongings.
You’re changing:
YOUR HOME
YOUR UTILITIES
YOUR DRIVER’S LICENSE
YOUR VEHICLE REGISTRATION
YOUR INSURANCE
YOUR COMMUTE
YOUR HEALTHCARE
YOUR MAILING ADDRESS
YOUR FINANCES
YOUR DAILY ROUTINE
and sometimes:
YOUR ENTIRE LIFESTYLE.
That’s why I created this checklist.
THE GOAL IS SIMPLE:
Help you know what to do:
BEFORE THE MOVE
DURING THE MOVE
and:
AFTER YOU ARRIVE.
You don’t need to complete everything in one weekend.
Start early.
Work through the list.
And give yourself enough margin for things that don’t go exactly according to plan.
FIRST: DECIDE WHAT KIND OF MOVE YOU’RE MAKING
Before booking movers or looking at homes, get clear about the bigger picture.
Ask yourself:
WHY AM I MOVING TO LAS VEGAS?
WHEN DO I NEED TO ARRIVE?
AM I BUYING OR RENTING?
AM I SELLING A HOME FIRST?
WILL I BE WORKING LOCALLY OR REMOTELY?
HOW LONG DO I EXPECT TO LIVE HERE?
WHICH PART OF SOUTHERN NEVADA FITS MY LIFE?
HOW MUCH DO I WANT TO SPEND EACH MONTH?
The answers affect almost every step that follows.
DON’T START WITH THE MOVING TRUCK.
Start with:
THE PLAN.
A smooth relocation usually begins months before your belongings leave your current home.
YOUR LAS VEGAS MOVING TIMELINE
6–12 MONTHS BEFORE THE MOVE
This is your planning stage.
You don’t need every answer yet.
But you should begin building the framework.
☐ DECIDE WHY YOU’RE MOVING
Work?
Retirement?
Family?
Military relocation?
Housing affordability?
Lifestyle?
Remote work?
A fresh start?
Knowing why you’re moving helps determine where and how you should live.
☐ ESTABLISH YOUR TARGET MOVE DATE
Try to identify:
Approximate arrival date.
Job start date.
PCS report date if military.
Current lease expiration.
Home-sale timeline.
Children’s school calendar if applicable.
☐ BEGIN RESEARCHING SOUTHERN NEVADA
Start learning the difference between:
Las Vegas.
Henderson.
North Las Vegas.
Boulder City.
And the many unincorporated areas of Clark County.
➡️ [ LAS VEGAS RELOCATION GUIDE → ]
☐ BUILD A RELOCATION BUDGET
Include more than the moving company.
Plan for:
Moving expenses.
Flights.
Hotels.
Temporary housing.
Vehicle shipping if applicable.
Storage.
Deposits.
Utility setup.
Insurance.
DMV expenses.
Furniture.
Home purchase costs if buying.
Emergency reserves.
☐ COMPARE YOUR CURRENT COST OF LIVING
Look at:
Housing.
Taxes.
Insurance.
Utilities.
Transportation.
Healthcare.
Childcare.
Food.
Lifestyle.
Then compare those expenses with Southern Nevada.
➡️ [ COST OF LIVING IN LAS VEGAS → ]
☐ REVIEW YOUR CREDIT
If you’re considering purchasing, this is a good time to understand where your credit stands.
Don’t automatically:
Open new cards.
Close old accounts.
Pay off random debts.
Move large amounts of money.
before discussing your situation with a qualified lender.
The goal is to understand your financial picture before making changes.
☐ BUILD CASH RESERVES
Your relocation budget should include money for:
Moving.
Emergencies.
Deposits.
Unexpected repairs.
Temporary housing.
Insurance deductibles.
Life after closing.
DON’T SPEND EVERYTHING JUST GETTING TO THE FRONT DOOR.
3–6 MONTHS BEFORE THE MOVE
Now the plan becomes more specific.
☐ DECIDE WHETHER TO BUY OR RENT
This is one of the biggest relocation decisions.
Renting may provide:
Flexibility.
More time to learn the valley.
Less immediate commitment.
Buying may provide:
Stability.
Ownership.
More control.
Potential equity.
Neither is automatically right.
➡️ [ BUYING VS. RENTING WHEN RELOCATING → ]
☐ IF BUYING, SPEAK WITH A LENDER
Before seriously shopping for homes, understand:
How much you may qualify for.
What payment feels comfortable.
Loan options.
Estimated cash to close.
Potential assistance programs.
Credit considerations.
Documentation requirements.
GOOD ENERGY RULE
DON’T START WITH “WHAT’S THE MOST I CAN BUY?”
Start with:
“WHAT PAYMENT LETS ME LIVE COMFORTABLY?”
☐ GET PRE-APPROVED WHEN APPROPRIATE
A pre-approval can help clarify:
Price range.
Loan type.
Estimated payment.
Potential financing concerns.
Offer strength.
But:
YOUR MAXIMUM APPROVAL IS NOT YOUR SPENDING TARGET.
☐ EXPLORE DOWN-PAYMENT ASSISTANCE
Depending on your qualifications, Nevada programs may be available for:
First-time buyers.
Repeat buyers.
Teachers.
Essential workers.
Veterans.
Military households.
Hospitality workers.
Other eligible buyers.
➡️ [ DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE → ]
☐ IF YOU OWN A HOME NOW, MAKE A SALE PLAN
Decide whether you intend to:
Sell before buying.
Buy before selling.
Coordinate both closings.
Keep the property.
Rent temporarily after selling.
Your lender and agents should understand this plan early.
☐ BEGIN COMPARING AREAS
Think about:
Commute.
Housing type.
Budget.
New construction.
HOA.
Airport access.
Family.
Healthcare.
Lifestyle.
Future plans.
☐ PLAN A RELOCATION VISIT IF POSSIBLE
If you’ve never lived here, consider visiting specifically to research your future life.
Not just the Strip.
Visit:
Residential communities.
Grocery stores.
Parks.
Shopping.
Potential workplaces.
Healthcare providers.
New-home communities.
Restaurants.
DRIVE THE VALLEY.
See:
Summerlin.
Southwest Las Vegas.
Henderson.
Northwest Las Vegas.
North Las Vegas.
Other areas relevant to you.
Las Vegas looks very different when you leave Las Vegas Boulevard.
☐ TEST YOUR COMMUTE
If possible, drive your expected commute:
AT THE TIME YOU’LL ACTUALLY DRIVE IT.
A Tuesday morning commute may look very different from Sunday afternoon.
☐ RESEARCH NEW CONSTRUCTION
Southern Nevada has significant new-home development.
You may want to compare:
To-be-built homes.
Quick move-in homes.
Resale homes.
Builder incentives.
➡️ [ NEW CONSTRUCTION GUIDE → ]
☐ CONTACT ME BEFORE VISITING BUILDERS
Builder policies vary.
Some builders require your Realtor to be documented or registered during your first interaction or model-home visit under their specific policy.
CONTACT ME BEFORE YOUR FIRST MODEL-HOME VISIT.
60–90 DAYS BEFORE THE MOVE
Now logistics become much more important.
☐ FINALIZE YOUR HOUSING PLAN
You should now have a clearer idea whether you will:
Buy.
Rent.
Use temporary housing.
Stay with family initially.
☐ BEGIN ACTIVE HOME SHOPPING IF BUYING
Evaluate:
Location.
Price.
Payment.
Lot.
Condition.
HOA.
Property taxes.
Insurance.
Solar.
HVAC.
Commute.
Future marketability.
☐ IF RENTING, BEGIN ACTIVE RENTAL SEARCH
Review:
Lease term.
Security deposit.
Pet policies.
Pet rent.
Utilities.
Parking.
Application fees.
Income requirements.
Move-in costs.
Renewal terms.
☐ GET MOVING QUOTES
Compare more than price.
Ask about:
Insurance.
Delivery window.
Storage.
Packing.
Unpacking.
Extra fees.
Stairs.
Long carries.
Heavy items.
Cancellation terms.
☐ VERIFY YOUR MOVER
For interstate moves, use appropriate federal resources to verify movers and understand your consumer protections.
Avoid choosing a mover purely because the quote is dramatically cheaper than everyone else’s.
☐ CREATE A MOVING INVENTORY
Decide what you will:
Keep.
Sell.
Donate.
Throw away.
Store.
Ship.
MOVING IS EXPENSIVE.
Don’t automatically pay to move things you don’t want anymore.
☐ MEASURE YOUR NEW SPACE
If possible, know:
Door widths.
Room dimensions.
Garage size.
Stair dimensions.
Elevator access.
Furniture placement.
A sectional that fits your current house may not fit the new one.
☐ START SELLING OR DONATING ITEMS
The earlier you reduce clutter, the easier the move becomes.
IF YOU’RE MOVING FROM HAWAII
Your process needs additional time.
You may need to coordinate:
Vehicle ocean transportation.
Household-goods shipping.
Flights.
Temporary transportation.
Pet travel.
Mainland vehicle transport.
➡️ [ HAWAII → LAS VEGAS RELOCATION GUIDE → ]
IF YOU’RE MOVING FROM CALIFORNIA
Think about:
Home sale timing.
California tax considerations.
Vehicle transition.
Nevada DMV.
Property taxes.
Insurance.
➡️ [ CALIFORNIA → LAS VEGAS RELOCATION GUIDE → ]
IF YOU’RE MILITARY
If you’re PCSing to:
NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE
or:
CREECH AIR FORCE BASE,
your checklist may also include:
Orders.
Household goods.
Temporary lodging.
Base reporting.
BAH.
Military transportation resources.
VA financing.
As a Military Relocation Professional (MRP™), I can help coordinate the real-estate side of your Southern Nevada relocation.
➡️ [ MILITARY RELOCATION TO LAS VEGAS → ]
30–60 DAYS BEFORE MOVING
At this point, start locking things down.
☐ CONFIRM YOUR MOVING COMPANY
Confirm:
Pickup.
Delivery window.
Final estimate.
Contact information.
Insurance.
Payment method.
☐ CREATE A “DO NOT PACK” AREA
Set aside items that travel with you.
These may include:
Identification.
Important documents.
Medication.
Jewelry.
Valuables.
Laptop.
Chargers.
Keys.
Closing documents.
Pet supplies.
Several days of clothing.
NEVER PUT IRREPLACEABLE DOCUMENTS IN THE MOVING TRUCK.
Keep items such as:
Passports.
Birth certificates.
Social Security cards.
Military records.
Marriage certificates.
Medical documents.
Property documents.
Financial records.
with you.
☐ GATHER MEDICAL RECORDS
Especially if you have:
Ongoing treatment.
Specialists.
Prescriptions.
Children.
Pets.
Ask how records can be transferred to your new providers.
☐ REFILL PRESCRIPTIONS
Don’t arrive with three pills left and no Nevada doctor yet.
Plan enough medication for the transition, subject to your provider and prescription rules.
☐ FIND NEW HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS
Research:
Primary care.
Specialists.
Dentist.
Veterinarian.
Pharmacy.
Urgent care.
Hospital systems.
☐ VERIFY YOUR HEALTH INSURANCE
Confirm:
Nevada network.
Providers.
Deductible.
Prescription coverage.
Specialist access.
☐ IF YOU WORK REMOTELY, CONFIRM INTERNET AT THE EXACT ADDRESS
Don’t assume:
“THE COMMUNITY HAS FIBER.”
Verify service at:
YOUR EXACT HOME.
☐ OBTAIN HOMEOWNERS OR RENTERS INSURANCE
If purchasing, start insurance shopping early enough that the policy doesn’t become a last-minute closing problem.
If renting, verify whether renter’s insurance is required.
☐ GET NEVADA AUTO-INSURANCE QUOTES
Insurance rates may change when you move states.
Your current premium may not reflect your Nevada cost.
IF YOU’RE BUYING A HOME
Once under contract, your relocation checklist becomes a home-buying checklist too.
☐ COMPLETE THE HOME INSPECTION
A home inspection helps evaluate the property’s condition.
Pay particular attention in Southern Nevada to systems such as:
HVAC.
Roof.
Plumbing.
Electrical.
Water heater.
Pool equipment.
Irrigation.
Solar.
Grading/drainage.
DON’T PANIC WHEN THE INSPECTION REPORT IS LONG.
Inspection reports document many things.
Separate findings into:
MAJOR
SAFETY
MAINTENANCE
COSMETIC.
Then make decisions calmly.
☐ REVIEW THE HVAC
In Las Vegas:
AIR CONDITIONING MATTERS.
Consider:
Age.
Condition.
Cooling performance.
Number of units.
Maintenance.
Potential replacement cost.
☐ COMPLETE THE APPRAISAL IF REQUIRED
Remember:
APPRAISAL ≠ HOME INSPECTION.
The appraisal primarily addresses value and applicable lender/property requirements.
☐ REVIEW HOA DOCUMENTS
If the home has an HOA, review:
Rules.
Budget information.
Assessments.
Fees.
Rental restrictions.
Parking.
Pets.
Architectural restrictions.
Insurance.
Other documents provided.
☐ REVIEW SID/LID OR OTHER ASSESSMENTS
If applicable, understand:
Remaining balance.
Payment structure.
Impact on ownership costs.
☐ REVIEW SOLAR
If the home has solar, determine whether it is:
Owned.
Financed.
Leased.
Under a power purchase agreement.
Review:
Balance.
Transfer terms.
Payment.
Production.
Equipment.
☐ CONFIRM PROPERTY TAX INFORMATION
Clark County’s tax-cap system generally limits annual property-tax-bill increases for qualifying owner-occupied primary residences to no more than 3%, while other property is generally subject to an up-to-8% cap.
IMPORTANT:
That does not mean your property tax equals 3% of the home’s value.
If you’re buying a primary residence, confirm that the appropriate tax-cap information is handled after ownership changes.
☐ VERIFY INSURANCE
Don’t simply accept:
“IT’S PROBABLY $150 A MONTH.”
Get an actual quote.
☐ REVIEW YOUR FINAL MONTHLY COST
Before closing, understand:
Mortgage.
Taxes.
Insurance.
HOA.
Solar.
Assessments.
Utilities.
Maintenance.
KNOW WHAT THE HOUSE COSTS TO LIVE IN.
☐ KEEP YOUR FINANCES BORING
Once you’re under contract:
DON’T BUY THE NEW CAR.
Avoid, without consulting your lender:
Opening new credit cards.
Financing furniture.
Co-signing loans.
Moving large unexplained sums.
Changing employment.
Taking on new debt.
BUY THE COUCH AFTER THE KEYS.
2–4 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING
Now focus on the actual transition.
☐ SUBMIT YOUR CHANGE OF ADDRESS
Update the appropriate postal and mailing information.
Also remember that a postal forwarding request does not automatically update every company you deal with.
☐ UPDATE YOUR ADDRESS WITH:
Banks.
Credit cards.
Employer.
Insurance.
Investment accounts.
Loan providers.
Subscription services.
Professional licenses.
Government agencies where required.
☐ SET UP OR TRANSFER UTILITIES
Depending on where you live, services may include:
Electricity.
Natural gas.
Water.
Sewer.
Trash.
Internet.
HOA utilities or services.
UTILITY PROVIDERS VARY BY LOCATION.
For example:
Water service may be provided by:
Las Vegas Valley Water District.
City of Henderson.
City of North Las Vegas.
Boulder City.
Another applicable provider.
Verify using the actual property address.
☐ SCHEDULE INTERNET INSTALLATION
Especially if you work from home.
Try not to discover:
ON MONDAY MORNING
that the technician can’t come until Friday.
☐ SCHEDULE TRASH SERVICE IF NEEDED
Requirements vary by municipality and property.
☐ CONFIRM CLOSING DATE IF BUYING
Coordinate:
Lender.
Title/escrow.
Current housing.
Movers.
Travel.
Utilities.
DO NOT PLAN YOUR ENTIRE MOVE AROUND AN UNGUARANTEED CLOSING DATE.
Delays can happen.
Whenever possible, build in margin.
☐ CONFIRM POSSESSION
Closing and possession are not always exactly the same thing.
Know when you’re contractually entitled to:
THE KEYS.
☐ MAKE A FLOOR PLAN
Decide where major furniture goes.
Label boxes by:
Room.
Contents.
Priority.
☐ PACK A FIRST-NIGHT BOX
Include:
Toilet paper.
Soap.
Towels.
Bedding.
Basic cookware.
Coffee.
Chargers.
Cleaning supplies.
Paper towels.
Trash bags.
Basic tools.
Pet food.
Medication.
Clothes.
ONE WEEK BEFORE MOVING
You’re almost there.
☐ CONFIRM ALL RESERVATIONS
Moving company.
Flights.
Hotels.
Rental car.
Pet transportation.
Storage.
☐ CONFIRM UTILITY START DATES
Avoid arriving to:
No electricity.
No water.
No internet.
☐ BACK UP IMPORTANT FILES
Especially:
Financial records.
Photos.
Work documents.
Closing paperwork.
☐ PHOTOGRAPH VALUABLE ITEMS
Document condition before the move.
☐ DISPOSE OF ITEMS MOVERS CAN’T TRANSPORT
Moving companies may restrict:
Flammable materials.
Certain chemicals.
Fuel.
Propane.
Other hazardous materials.
Ask your mover.
☐ PREPARE PETS
Confirm:
Travel carrier.
Medication.
Food.
Water.
Vet records.
Microchip information.
Identification tags.
IF YOU HAVE A POOL AT YOUR NEW HOME
Arrange:
Pool service if desired.
Equipment orientation.
Safety planning.
Learn where:
Pump.
Filter.
Valves.
Breaker.
are located.
24–48 HOURS BEFORE CLOSING
If buying:
☐ COMPLETE YOUR FINAL WALKTHROUGH
Verify that:
Property condition is generally consistent with your agreement.
Agreed repairs were addressed as applicable.
Included items remain.
Home has not suffered obvious new damage.
☐ VERIFY WIRE INSTRUCTIONS INDEPENDENTLY
Real-estate wire fraud is real.
NEVER SEND MONEY BASED ONLY ON AN EMAIL THAT SUDDENLY CHANGES WIRE INSTRUCTIONS.
Verify instructions through a known, trusted telephone number for your escrow/title company.
☐ CONFIRM CASH TO CLOSE
Know:
Exact amount.
Permitted payment method.
Deadline.
MOVING DAY
Keep the essentials with you.
☐ COMPLETE A FINAL WALKTHROUGH OF YOUR OLD HOME
Check:
Closets.
Cabinets.
Garage.
Attic.
Storage.
Refrigerator.
Outdoor areas.
☐ PHOTOGRAPH THE OLD PROPERTY
Especially if renting.
Document condition.
☐ KEEP IMPORTANT ITEMS WITH YOU
Do not place:
Medication.
Documents.
Jewelry.
Valuables.
Work equipment.
Keys.
Closing funds.
in the moving truck.
☐ CHECK THE MOVING INVENTORY
Confirm item counts and condition.
☐ KEEP YOUR PHONE CHARGED
You’ll need it.
More than you think.
WELCOME TO LAS VEGAS.
You made it.
But there are still a few important things to handle.
YOUR FIRST 7 DAYS IN LAS VEGAS
☐ CHECK THE HOME IMMEDIATELY
Look for:
Leaks.
HVAC problems.
Appliance issues.
Moving damage.
Irrigation problems.
Pool issues.
☐ FIND YOUR MAIN WATER SHUTOFF
Do this before you need it.
☐ FIND YOUR ELECTRICAL PANEL
Know where it is.
☐ LEARN YOUR HVAC SYSTEM
Know:
Thermostat.
Filters.
Filter sizes.
Number of units.
Maintenance history.
☐ CHANGE OR CHECK AIR FILTERS
The desert creates dust.
Keeping HVAC filters maintained matters.
☐ LOCATE YOUR WATER HEATER
Know how to shut it off when appropriate.
☐ TEST SMOKE AND CARBON-MONOXIDE DEVICES
Follow manufacturer recommendations and applicable safety requirements.
☐ CHANGE LOCKS OR REKEY WHEN APPROPRIATE
If you purchased a resale home, consider controlling who has access to the property.
☐ PROGRAM GARAGE-DOOR REMOTES
And remove old access codes if appropriate.
☐ MEET YOUR HOA REQUIREMENTS
If you live within an HOA, learn:
Gate access.
Parking.
Trash schedules.
Architectural rules.
Amenity access.
Community contacts.
NEVADA DRIVER’S LICENSE + VEHICLE REGISTRATION
Nevada DMV states that new residents generally must obtain their Nevada driver’s license and register their vehicles within:
30 DAYS.
The Nevada DMV New Resident Guide identifies common items you may need, including things such as:
Proof of identity.
Existing license.
Nevada insurance.
Vehicle registration.
Odometer information.
Emissions inspection when required.
VIN inspection when required.
Other documentation depending on the transaction.
DON’T WAIT UNTIL DAY 29.
DMV appointments and documentation can take planning.
Review the official checklist soon after arrival.
ACTIVE-DUTY MILITARY
Nevada DMV identifies active-duty military members, spouses and dependents among people who may not be required to transfer an out-of-state driver’s license simply because they’re living in Nevada.
Military residency and vehicle rules can differ from civilian requirements.
➡️ [ MILITARY RELOCATION GUIDE → ]
VEHICLE EMISSIONS
Some vehicles in urban Clark County require emissions testing before Nevada registration.
Requirements vary based on:
Vehicle.
Fuel type.
Age.
Location.
Exemptions.
Verify your particular vehicle through Nevada DMV.
NEVADA AUTO INSURANCE
Nevada insurance generally needs to be in place before Nevada registration.
Confirm your policy with your insurance provider.
YOUR FIRST 30 DAYS
Now begin establishing your normal Nevada life.
☐ UPDATE EMPLOYER RECORDS
Update:
Address.
Payroll.
Benefits.
Tax information where appropriate.
Emergency contact.
☐ UPDATE FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS
Review:
Banks.
Credit cards.
Investment accounts.
Loan providers.
☐ REGISTER TO VOTE IF ELIGIBLE AND DESIRED
Follow Nevada’s current voter-registration requirements.
☐ TRANSFER PROFESSIONAL LICENSES IF NEEDED
Depending on your occupation, you may need Nevada:
Licensure.
Certification.
Registration.
Permits.
☐ UPDATE BUSINESS INFORMATION
If you own a business, your personal move does not automatically resolve:
Business registration.
Licensing.
Tax nexus.
Payroll.
Professional licensing.
Discuss those issues with the appropriate professionals.
☐ ESTABLISH PRIMARY CARE
Don’t wait for an emergency to find:
Doctor.
Dentist.
Veterinarian.
Pharmacy.
☐ LEARN YOUR LOCAL SERVICES
Know where your:
Hospital.
Urgent care.
Fire station.
Police jurisdiction.
DMV.
Grocery store.
Pharmacy.
Post office.
are located.
IF YOU BOUGHT A PRIMARY RESIDENCE
☐ REVIEW YOUR PROPERTY-TAX CAP
Clark County states that qualifying owner-occupied primary residences can receive a 3% cap on annual property-tax-bill increases, while other properties generally receive an up-to-8% cap.
If the property’s tax-cap status is incorrect after your purchase, review the current Clark County Assessor process.
☐ CONSIDER RECORDING A NEVADA HOMESTEAD DECLARATION
Clark County states that recording a Declaration of Homestead can protect up to:
$605,000 OF EQUITY
in a principal residence from certain general creditor claims.
It does not protect against every obligation.
Clark County specifically lists exceptions such as:
Mortgages or deeds of trust.
Taxes.
IRS liens.
Mechanic’s liens.
Child support.
Alimony.
This is a legal protection, so review the official requirements and seek legal advice if you need guidance about your situation.
☐ LEARN YOUR WATERING DAYS
Southern Nevada has mandatory seasonal watering schedules.
For Las Vegas Valley Water District customers, the current schedule generally allows:
SPRING — UP TO 3 ASSIGNED DAYS/WEEK
SUMMER — MONDAY THROUGH SATURDAY AS NEEDED
FALL — UP TO 3 ASSIGNED DAYS/WEEK
WINTER — 1 ASSIGNED DAY/WEEK
and:
SPRINKLER WATERING ON SUNDAY IS PROHIBITED.
Your exact watering group depends on your address.
☐ LEARN YOUR IRRIGATION CONTROLLER
A broken irrigation line in the desert can waste a surprising amount of water.
Know:
Where the controller is.
How to shut it off.
Your assigned watering days.
☐ PREPARE FOR SUMMER
If you’re moving during cooler months, don’t wait until June to think about extreme heat.
Check:
HVAC servicing.
Shade.
Window coverings.
Pool.
Vehicle battery.
Tires.
Pet routines.
Outdoor irrigation.
SUMMER RULE:
NEVER LEAVE CHILDREN OR PETS IN A PARKED VEHICLE.
Even briefly.
Southern Nevada heat can become dangerous extremely quickly.
PET OWNERS
Your pet needs its own relocation checklist.
☐ FIND A LOCAL VETERINARIAN
☐ UPDATE MICROCHIP INFORMATION
☐ UPDATE TAGS
☐ REVIEW LOCAL LICENSING REQUIREMENTS
☐ CREATE SHADED OUTDOOR AREAS
☐ CHECK FENCING
☐ LEARN COYOTE AWARENESS IF NEAR DESERT AREAS
☐ NEVER ASSUME PAVEMENT IS SAFE IN SUMMER
If the pavement is too hot for your hand, it may be too hot for paws.
POOL OWNERS
If you’ve never owned a pool before, learn:
Chemical basics.
Cleaning schedule.
Pump schedule.
Filter.
Water level.
Safety.
Energy usage.
Maintenance provider.
SOLAR HOME?
Keep copies of:
Solar agreement.
Warranty.
Equipment information.
Monitoring login.
Installer information.
Loan or lease documentation.
HOME WARRANTY?
If your purchase included a home warranty:
Know:
Provider.
Contract number.
Coverage.
Service-call process.
Expiration.
NEW CONSTRUCTION?
Your post-closing checklist may also include:
Builder warranty registration.
Warranty walkthrough.
Submitting warranty items.
Landscaping.
Window coverings.
Appliances.
Security system.
Garage setup.
Furniture.
Backyard improvements.
NEW HOME DOES NOT MEAN:
ZERO MAINTENANCE.
Start a homeowner maintenance routine immediately.
CREATE A HOME FILE
Keep important property documents together.
Include:
Closing documents.
Title information.
Inspection report.
Appraisal.
Insurance.
HOA documents.
Home warranty.
Appliance warranties.
Solar documents.
Repair receipts.
Contractor information.
Utility information.
CREATE A HOME MAINTENANCE CALENDAR
Southern Nevada maintenance may include:
HVAC service.
Air-filter changes.
Water-heater maintenance.
Irrigation checks.
Pool maintenance.
Pest control.
Roof inspection.
Smoke alarms.
Garage door.
Weather stripping.
DESERT HOME MAINTENANCE IS DIFFERENT.
The heat, sun and dryness affect:
Paint.
Roofing.
Sealants.
Irrigation.
Landscaping.
HVAC.
Vehicle batteries.
Outdoor materials.
THE FIRST 90 DAYS
You don’t need to have the entire city figured out immediately.
Use the first few months to:
Explore your area.
Test different routes.
Find local businesses.
Meet neighbors.
Learn local services.
Establish routines.
DON’T JUDGE YOUR ENTIRE RELOCATION DURING WEEK ONE.
Moving can be exhausting.
Your home is full of boxes.
You don’t know where anything is.
Your routines are gone.
Give yourself time to settle.
IF YOU MOVED FROM CALIFORNIA
You may need additional follow-up involving:
California DMV.
Tax residency considerations.
Business issues.
Property still owned in California.
Other state-specific matters.
➡️ [ CALIFORNIA → LAS VEGAS GUIDE → ]
IF YOU MOVED FROM HAWAII
Your belongings or vehicle may arrive separately.
Coordinate:
Freight delivery.
Vehicle pickup.
Ground transportation.
Storage.
➡️ [ HAWAII → LAS VEGAS GUIDE → ]
IF YOU’RE MILITARY
Continue using your official installation resources for:
Newcomer requirements.
Household goods.
Finance.
Medical enrollment.
Family readiness.
Base access.
Other military matters.
I handle the real-estate side.
➡️ [ MILITARY RELOCATION TO LAS VEGAS → ]
WHAT SHOULD YOU KEEP IN YOUR CAR DURING YOUR FIRST LAS VEGAS SUMMER?
Consider basic desert preparedness such as:
Water.
Phone charger.
Sun protection.
Emergency contacts.
Appropriate vehicle emergency supplies.
And:
DON’T IGNORE YOUR CAR BATTERY.
Extreme heat can be hard on automotive batteries.
THE LAS VEGAS “NEW HOMEOWNER” CHECKLIST
If you bought rather than rented:
☐ Know main water shutoff
☐ Know electrical panel
☐ Know gas shutoff if applicable
☐ Know HVAC filter size
☐ Know irrigation controller
☐ Review HOA rules
☐ Review property-tax cap
☐ Consider Homestead Declaration
☐ Save home inspection
☐ Save warranties
☐ Confirm insurance
☐ Learn watering schedule
☐ Establish maintenance reserves
☐ Create contractor list
☐ Change/rekey locks as appropriate
☐ Test safety devices
THE LAS VEGAS “NEW RESIDENT” CHECKLIST
☐ Nevada driver’s license when required
☐ Nevada vehicle registration when required
☐ Nevada auto insurance
☐ Address updates
☐ Employer updates
☐ Healthcare established
☐ Internet established
☐ Utilities established
☐ Professional licenses updated if applicable
☐ Voting registration if applicable
☐ Local emergency services identified
☐ Watering schedule understood
☐ Pet records updated
THE LAS VEGAS “DON’T FORGET THIS” LIST
These are small things people frequently remember too late:
☐ GARAGE REMOTES
☐ MAILBOX KEYS
☐ HOA GATE REMOTES
☐ TRASH DAY
☐ AIR-FILTER SIZE
☐ IRRIGATION DAYS
☐ INTERNET INSTALLATION
☐ INSURANCE
☐ DMV APPOINTMENT
☐ VEHICLE EMISSIONS
☐ MEDICATION
☐ PET RECORDS
☐ SCHOOL RECORDS
☐ HOME WARRANTIES
☐ SOLAR LOGIN
☐ POOL SERVICE
☐ WATER SHUTOFF LOCATION
WHAT I WOULD NOT DO
I WOULDN’T SCHEDULE EVERYTHING FOR THE SAME DAY.
Closing.
Movers.
Flight.
Utility shutoff.
Furniture delivery.
Everything going perfectly.
That’s too many dependencies.
I WOULDN’T ARRIVE WITHOUT RESERVES.
Moves cost more than expected.
I WOULDN’T WAIT UNTIL AFTER MOVING TO RESEARCH DMV.
Know what documents you’ll need beforehand.
I WOULDN’T BUY FURNITURE WHILE YOUR MORTGAGE IS STILL BEING UNDERWRITTEN.
Wait until closing unless your lender specifically tells you otherwise.
I WOULDN’T IGNORE THE HVAC.
It’s Las Vegas.
I WOULDN’T ASSUME A NEW BUILD NEEDS NO INSPECTION.
Brand new doesn’t automatically mean perfect.
I WOULDN’T CHOOSE A HOME ONLY BECAUSE IT’S CLOSE TO THE STRIP.
Unless that’s actually important to your life.
I WOULDN’T TRY TO SOLVE THE ENTIRE MOVE IN ONE WEEK.
Preparation creates calm.
YOUR MASTER LAS VEGAS MOVING CHECKLIST
BEFORE YOU DECIDE
☐ Why am I moving?
☐ When am I moving?
☐ Buy or rent?
☐ Comfortable budget?
☐ Expected time in Nevada?
FINANCIAL
☐ Review credit
☐ Build reserves
☐ Speak with lender if buying
☐ Get pre-approved
☐ Review DPA options
☐ Calculate cash to close
☐ Budget moving expenses
HOUSING
☐ Research areas
☐ Test commute
☐ Compare homes
☐ Compare new construction
☐ Contact Realtor before builder visit
☐ Review HOA
☐ Review property taxes
☐ Review SID/LID
☐ Review solar
☐ Review insurance
MOVE
☐ Hire mover
☐ Create inventory
☐ Declutter
☐ Pack
☐ Confirm temporary housing
☐ Confirm travel
☐ Transfer records
☐ Arrange pet travel
UTILITIES
☐ Electricity
☐ Gas
☐ Water
☐ Sewer
☐ Trash
☐ Internet
ADDRESS
☐ USPS
☐ Banks
☐ Credit cards
☐ Employer
☐ Insurance
☐ Investments
☐ Professional licenses
☐ Subscriptions
AFTER ARRIVAL
☐ Nevada DMV
☐ Vehicle registration
☐ Auto insurance
☐ Healthcare
☐ Property-tax cap if homeowner
☐ Homestead review
☐ Watering days
☐ HOA setup
☐ Home maintenance plan
☐ Explore your community
MOVING TO LAS VEGAS SHOULD FEEL EXCITING — NOT CHAOTIC.
There will always be things you can’t completely control.
A closing may move.
A delivery may arrive late.
A box may disappear into the garage for six months.
That’s real life.
But the more you prepare before your move:
The fewer decisions you have to make while overwhelmed.
GOOD ENERGY DOESN’T MEAN EVERYTHING GOES PERFECTLY.
It means you have enough clarity and preparation to handle what comes next.
THE GOOD ENERGY RELOCATION APPROACH
CLARITY
Know what you’re moving toward.
PREPARATION
Get the major pieces organized early.
MARGIN
Don’t make every deadline depend on everything going perfectly.
STRATEGY
Handle the important decisions in the right order.
CALM
When something changes:
We adjust.
PEACEFUL, BUT AMBITIOUS.
STARTING YOUR MOVE TO LAS VEGAS?
You don’t have to wait until you’re ready to buy a house to contact me.
If you’re:
12 MONTHS AWAY
6 MONTHS AWAY
90 DAYS AWAY
or:
ALREADY PACKING BOXES,
we can start with a relocation conversation.
Tell me:
Where you’re moving from.
Why you’re moving.
Your timeline.
Whether you’re buying or renting.
Your budget.
What kind of home you’re looking for.
Then we’ll start putting the pieces together.
TOMMY XAVIER NGUYEN
The Good Energy Realtor®
Military Relocation Professional — MRP™
Nevada Real Estate Salesperson
NV Lic. #S.0204577
Good Energy Realty LLC
📞 725.224.1720
Serving:
Las Vegas • Henderson • North Las Vegas • Boulder City • Southern Nevada
Helping you manifest a home that matches your energy.
YOUR MOVE DOESN’T HAVE TO FEEL OVERWHELMING.
One step at a time. One clear plan. Good Energy.
[ BUTTON: START MY LAS VEGAS MOVE ]
[ BUTTON: TALK TO TOMMY ]
[ BUTTON: EXPLORE LAS VEGAS ]
CONTINUE YOUR RELOCATION PLAN
LAS VEGAS RELOCATION GUIDE
Learn about communities, housing, transportation, climate, utilities and life in Southern Nevada.
[ LAS VEGAS RELOCATION GUIDE → ]
COST OF LIVING IN LAS VEGAS
Understand housing, utilities, taxes, vehicles, insurance and everyday expenses.
[ COST OF LIVING → ]
BUYING VS. RENTING WHEN RELOCATING
Compare the advantages and tradeoffs before deciding where to start.
[ BUYING VS. RENTING → ]
CALIFORNIA → LAS VEGAS
Everything to consider when relocating from California.
[ CALIFORNIA RELOCATION GUIDE → ]
HAWAII → LAS VEGAS
Plan vehicle shipping, household goods and your transition from island to desert life.
[ HAWAII RELOCATION GUIDE → ]
MILITARY RELOCATION
PCS planning for Nellis, Creech and Southern Nevada.
[ MILITARY RELOCATION → ]
NEW CONSTRUCTION
Explore Southern Nevada builders, quick move-in homes and new communities.
[ NEW CONSTRUCTION GUIDE → ]
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
This checklist is intended for general relocation and real-estate education.
Moving requirements, DMV rules, taxes, utility procedures, property-tax rules, HOA requirements, insurance policies, military procedures and other regulations can change.
Nevada DMV currently states that new residents generally must transfer their driver’s license and vehicle registration within 30 days, subject to applicable exemptions.
Clark County’s property-tax-cap and Homestead Declaration rules are subject to Nevada law and current county procedures.
Always verify important requirements with the appropriate government agency or qualified professional for your specific circumstances.
The Good Energy Realtor® and Good Energy Realty LLC do not provide tax, legal, financial, insurance or mortgage advice.
