Moving In
Whether you're looking at homes in Golden Valley or have just purchased one, there's a lot to think about when planning a move. The following tips and suggestions are meant to help ease the transition.
Before You Buy
Have the Property Inspected
Because the City of Golden Valley doesn't require point-of-sale inspections (with the exception of sanitary sewer service inspections), you may want to contract with a private home inspection service (check the Yellow Pages) before purchasing any Golden Valley home. Before your buy, make sure the property has a Certificate of Sanitary Sewer Service Compliance from the City.
Check City Records on Allowable Additions/Remodeling
Before you can remodel or build an addition, you must meet all City permit requirements. Check City files for an “as-built” survey (Inspections Department, 763-593-8090) or ask the property owner if such a survey exists. If the property does not meet existing setbacks from the property line, a variance may be needed to construct the proposed improvements. Check with the Planning Department (763-593-8095) for variance information.
Check City Code for Rental Restrictions
Before buying a house with rental possibilities, be sure to check all aspects of the City's zoning code. Some properties are marketed as duplexes or auxiliary rental units when they aren't, and residents who think they have a legal rental situation don't. Call Planning at 763-593-8095.
Check Home Occupation Restrictions
If you work out of your home or are considering it, check with the Planning Department (763-593-8095) for regulations.
Get Information on Area Crime Statistics
Contact the City's Crime Prevention Unit (763-593-8058) for up-to-date statistics on crime in the City and its specific neighborhoods.
After You Move In
File for Homestead Credit
As soon as possible after you move in, bring a copy of your Warranty Deed, Contract for Deed, Quit Claim Deed, or personal Representative Deed to General Services at City Hall to file for homestead. We will change the name of the owner on our records, and a homestead card will be mailed out in your name. This will assure you of the homestead classification on your real estate taxes. Call 763-593-8020 for more information.
Check Out Garbage & Recycling Services
Check for a list of garbage haulers licensed in Golden Valley and for information on the City's recycling program. If your home's previous owner did not leave recycling crates behind, call 763-593-8030 to have some delivered.
Update Utility Records
Call Utility Billing (763-593-8016) to make sure all account information for your address is accurate and updated. Contact private utility companies to set up electric, gas, telephone, or cable TV service.
Check Safety/Security Issues
Make sure your new home has functioning smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Check the batteries in smoke detectors and replace them if they are old or weak. Test smoke detectors monthly, and formulate an escape plan from your home in case of a fire. Contact the Golden Valley Fire Department at 763-593-8065 for more information.
The Crime Prevention Unit of the Golden Valley Police Department offers materials on crime prevention, home security surveys, and how to join or start a Neighborhood Watch group.
Update Licenses
Residents who move from within the state have 30 days to update their driver's licenses. New Minnesota residents have 60 days to change their driver's licenses and vehicle license plates
The Golden Valley Motor Vehicle Licensing Department offers limited driver's license services, including duplicate licenses and change of name or address. It also offers a full array of other vehicle licensing services. To make sure you receive renewal notices at your new address, call the State (651-296-6911) with all license plate numbers.
Update your dog license(s) and check the City's requirements for keeping pets.
Explore Local Recreation Opportunities
Check out the City's Park and Recreation Department for information on fun things to do.
If You're Moving Out
Before putting your house on the market, contact Public Works at 763-593-8030 to schedule a point of sale sanitary sewer service compliance inspection in regards to inflow and infiltration. City ordinance requires all Golden Valley properties to pass the inspection before they are advertised for sale or before title is transferred.
Anywhere from four weeks to two days before closing, call the Utility Billing office at 763-593-8016 to schedule a final water meter reading. All final meter readings need to be done inside your home, so schedule a time when someone is home to let the meter reader in. The City will forward your final bill to your new address.
