After you’ve pinpointed the snowbird nest of your dreams, get ready to fly south. Here is a checklist of some of the most important items that will need your attention before departure on an epic snowbird trip.
- Arrange for a trusted friend or family member to inspect the house you left behind on a regular basis.
- Hire a local business to take care of snow and ice removal.
- Suspend all newspaper delivery, cable service and Internet.
- Forward your mail with the Good Sam Mail Service (www.goodsammailservice.com).
- Set up online pay for as many monthly bills as possible.
- Double-check all carbon monoxide and smoke detectors in your house.
- Disconnect all appliances, including lamps, TVs, clocks and microwaves.
- Schedule a landscaping company and cleaning service to freshen up the house a few days before your arrival home in the spring. There are even some companies that will stock your refrigerator and pantry for you.
- If you’re snowbirding with a pet, make sure that you’ve taken the necessary steps to ensure that your four-legged friend stays happy and healthy.
