This is an important step - it marks the change from house hunting to home owning. You've found your dream home, made an offer, and gone through closing. Now it's your home - all you have to do is move in. Easy, right?

Not always. Use our tips, checklists, and worksheets to help you stay on track during your move.

A major decision in your move is figuring out whether you want to use a professional mover or do it yourself. Distance and budget are usually the biggest factors in determining which method is best for you.

Interstate (from one state to another) moves are federally regulated and priced according to a "tariff" (a fixed schedule of rates and charges) which looks at the total weight of your furniture and other items to be shipped and the distance to your new home. An intrastate move (a move within the borders of one state), is state regulated and generally priced according to the amount of time and labor required.

Local moves (less than 50 miles) are typically the least expensive, with the costs increasing for intrastate and interstate moves.

Don't know if you're prepared to move yourself? Consider the following questions:

• What is your moving budget?
• How do you feel about packing?
• Are you comfortable with lifting and moving heavy objects like your furniture?
• How much driving are you willing to do?
• Are you comfortable driving a truck or trailer?