The Ultimate Moving to Virginia Beach Checklist (2025)

Relocation GuidesVirginia Beach Real EstateHome Buying Guides
Written By Jennifer Dawn

Everything You Need to Know Before Relocating to Virginia Beach

Relocating to a new city is a big move, and having a clear plan will make the process smoother. Whether you're moving for work, military orders, or a fresh start, Virginia Beach offers coastal charm, diverse neighborhoods, and a strong job market.

This step-by-step checklist will help you plan your move, settle into your new home, and get familiar with the area so you can start enjoying everything Virginia Beach has to offer.

1. Research Virginia Beach Neighborhoods

Before you move, decide which neighborhood best fits your lifestyle. Consider:

🏡 Commute & Accessibility – How close do you need to be to work, schools, or military bases?
🏪 Nearby Amenities – Are you looking for parks, shopping centers, or a vibrant nightlife?
💰 Home Prices & Housing Options – Do you prefer a single-family home, townhome, or condo?

Explore neighborhood insights and home listings in our Virginia Beach Neighborhood Guide.

2. Secure Housing Before Your Move

🏠 Buying a Home in Virginia Beach

If you're purchasing a home, follow these key steps:

✔ Get pre-approved for a mortgage – Check current rates.
✔ Work with a local real estate agent to find listings that fit your needs.
✔ Schedule home tours (in person or virtually).
✔ Submit an offer and complete the home buying process.

Check out our Virginia Beach Home Buyer’s Guide for more details.

🏡 Renting in Virginia Beach

If you're planning to rent, be sure to:
✔ Research apartment complexes, townhomes, or single-family rentals.
✔ Compare lease terms, security deposits, and pet policies.
✔ Consider commute times and nearby amenities.

3. Plan Your Move

🚛 Moving Checklist (2 Months Before Moving Day)

✔ Hire a moving company or reserve a rental truck.
✔ Declutter and donate or sell items you don’t need.
✔ Gather important documents (ID, medical records, school records).
✔ Notify your current landlord if renting.

📦 Moving Checklist (2 Weeks Before Moving Day)

✔ Forward mail via USPS Change of Address.
✔ Transfer utilities, internet, and cable services.
✔ Pack an essentials box with daily necessities.

4. Set Up Utilities & Services in Virginia Beach

✔ Electricity & Water – Virginia Beach Public Utilities (www.vbgov.com)
✔ Internet & Cable – Cox Communications, Verizon Fios
✔ Trash & Recycling – City of Virginia Beach Waste Management
✔ DMV & Driver’s License – Update your address with the Virginia DMV

5. Get to Know Your New Community

Once you’ve moved, exploring your surroundings will help you settle in faster. Check out:

🌊 Local Beaches & Parks – Sandbridge Beach, First Landing State Park
🛍 Shopping & Dining – Town Center, Lynnhaven Mall, ViBe District
🎉 Community Events – Virginia Beach Farmers Market, Neptune Festival

For upcoming events, check out What’s Happening in Virginia Beach This Week?.

6. Military Relocation to Virginia Beach

If you're moving due to military orders, Virginia Beach is home to Naval Air Station Oceana, Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek, and nearby bases in Norfolk.

✔ Explore on-base housing and nearby off-base rentals.
✔ Use VA Loan benefits for home buying.
✔ Connect with local military support resources.

For a full guide, visit Military Relocation in Hampton Roads.

7. Final Moving Day Checklist

✔ Do a final walkthrough of your old home.
✔ Confirm moving company arrival times.
✔ Ensure utilities are set up in your new home.
✔ Unpack essentials first (bedroom, kitchen, toiletries).

Once you’re settled, take time to explore and enjoy Virginia Beach!

Ready to Make Virginia Beach Your Home?

If you're planning a move, I can help you find the right home and make the transition smoother. Whether you’re buying, selling, or relocating, let’s connect.

📞 Schedule a Consultation

Additional Moving Resources:

Sources:

Disclaimer:

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or real estate advice. Home buyers and renters should conduct their own research and consult with professionals for specific guidance regarding their move.

Jennifer Dawn

Jennifer Dawn, REALTOR®

Jennifer Dawn is a dedicated and passionate real estate professional with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices RW Towne Realty, specializing in residential properties in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia. With a strong focus on client needs, Jennifer ensures a smooth and efficient buying or selling experience for her clients.

Specialties: Buyer's agent, listing agent, and relocation specialist.

Affiliations: Member of the National Association of REALTORS (NAR), Virginia Association of REALTORS (VAR), and Hampton Roads REALTORS Association (HRRA).

Client-Centric Approach: Jennifer believes in building strong, focused relationships with her clients, emphasizing their interests, happiness, and long-term goals. Her commitment to excellence, honor, and integrity ensures that every client receives personalized and professional service.

Community Involvement: Jennifer is actively involved in various real estate associations and committees, including the VAR Public Policy Committee, HRRA Board of Directors, and HRRA Government Affairs Committee. She is also a NAR Commitment to Excellence Ambassador

https://JenniferDawnRealEstate.com
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