In the rush and excitement of buying a new home, dealing with the financing, going to the closing table, and celebrating the achievement, many forget to adequately plan the actual physical move of their families and belongings.

Here are a few things to consider when making a move.

• Do your homework and, along with price, check moving companies' online reviews, references, and status with groups such as the Better Business Bureau, Angie’s List, or Home Advisor. A good mover can add to the fun of getting settled in your new home. You can usually count on reputable movers to be on time, to be careful with your belongings, and to honor agreements of price and service.

• Don’t neglect helping out as a way to get a lower cost from your moving company.

Modern studies of home buyers constantly put energy efficiency at the top of the list of desirable features in today's new homes. New home construction firms report that their buyers are clamoring for more energy-efficient homes certified through programs such as Energy Star, and constructed using more recycled materials and less materials in total. In survey after survey, buyers place energy efficiency, low maintenance, and low operating costs, behind only safety as the most desirable features in their next home.

While builders strive to give their clients what they want in terms of energy-efficient homes, industry experts point out that to be certain of the impact of energy-efficient designs, a home energy monitoring system should be standard.