7 Things to Do Now If You Want to Move Before the School Year Starts

If you're hoping to move before the first school bell rings this fall, now is the time to act. With summer break underway, the clock is ticking—but the good news is, there's still time to make a smooth transition. Whether you're relocating for a better school district, a shorter commute, or more space, here are seven key steps to take right now.

1. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Before you start touring homes, secure your financing. Getting pre-approved shows sellers you're a serious buyer and gives you a clear budget to work with. It can also help you move faster once you find the right home.

2. Connect with a Local Real Estate Agent
Work with an agent who knows the local market and understands your time frame. Lucido agents can help you navigate tight timelines, schedule showings quickly, and write competitive offers, which is especially crucial during the busy summer market.

3. Narrow Down Your School District
If school zoning is a priority, confirm the assigned schools before falling in love with a home. Double-check district websites or use MLS filters to focus only on properties zoned for your desired school. Be aware that boundaries can change year to year.

4. Prioritize Your Must-Haves
Time is of the essence, so it helps to be decisive. Make a list of your top non-negotiables—like number of bedrooms, commute time, or yard size—and be flexible on smaller details. Knowing what you need versus what you want will help streamline your search.

5. Prepare Your Current Home to Sell (If Needed)
If you're selling a home as part of your move, now’s the time to declutter, make any small repairs, and get it listed. Your agent can help with staging and pricing to attract serious buyers and get your home under contract quickly.

6. Line Up Movers and Important Appointments Early
July and August are peak moving months, so book your moving company, inspectors, and contractors as soon as possible. Waiting too long could leave you scrambling for last-minute options—or paying more for them.

7. Set a Realistic Timeline
A typical home sale takes 30–45 days to close once under contract. Factor in time for your search, inspections, and any school registration paperwork. Starting now gives you the best shot at settling in before classes begin.