What the heck is a move manager, and why do I need one?
Quite simply, Jon and Leah, owners of Essential Next Steps, plan and execute the details of your move. They will get you where you want to go and make your move as stress-free as possible. You give your vision of what you want for your new home, and Essential Next Steps helps fulfill that. With you, Jon, and Leah, identify what is moving and what is not from your current home, and what you may need to acquire to fulfill that vision. Jon and Leah create a timeline for your move. They design floor plans, coordinate the move team, pack, manage move day, unpack, and haul off the packing material. They disperse what is not making the move through donation, consignment, and disposal. When you arrive, your home is ready for you. Kitchen and baths are organized. Beds are made. Clothes are hung in the closet. Books are on bookshelves. Lamps are plugged in. Electronics are hooked up. Décor is in place, art is hung. You are not living in boxes for weeks or months. You get to enjoy your new home from the moment you enter. Jon and Leah started Essential Next Steps after working with their parents. They are intimately acquainted with the challenges and rewards this particular move presents.
Our Custom Moving Coordination Services
Leah and Jon take a personalized, hands-on approach to help you or your loved one transition smoothly. Their comprehensive moving coordination services include:
- Complimentary Consultation
- Comprehensive Plan and Timeline
- Detailed Estimate
- Customized Floor Plans
- Moving Company Engagement
- Home Inventory Services
- Downsizing and Decluttering Solutions
- Sale, Distribution, Donation, and Disposal of Unwanted Items
- Professional and Efficient Packing and Unpacking
- New Home Set-Up (including electronics and art installation)
- Disposal of Packing Materials
- Coordination of Additional Services
About Leah Harlig
A proud Texas native, Leah grew up in Houston and graduated from the University of Houston. She’s passionate about helping her clients bring their vision for their home to life—whether downsizing, organizing, or moving. With a background in Client Services—most notably at Discover Card and American Express—Leah has honed her skills in understanding people, solving problems, and delivering exceptional service. Her natural empathy, efficiency, and communication skills made her a consistent top producer throughout her career.
Beyond her professional expertise, Leah is a Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)® and a member of the National Association of Senior Advocates. She’s also a Certified Recuperative Yoga Instructor, sharing her love of mindfulness and movement for over 11 years.
When she’s not helping clients, Leah enjoys spending time with her dogs, entertaining, interior design, cooking, reading, writing, and serving on the Advisory Council of the Paramount Theatre.
About Jon Harlig
Jon brings a wealth of experience and heart to the world of senior transitions. As a Certified Relocation and Transition Specialist (CRTS™) and member of the National Association of Productivity and Organizing (NAPO), Jon is known for his attention to detail, creative problem-solving, and steady, compassionate presence. His professional background in hospitality and executive leadership taught him how to anticipate needs, build relationships, and deliver high-quality experiences—all qualities that shine in his transition work today.
Jon graduated magna cum laude from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, earning a B.S. in Business Administration. He has completed continuing education courses at UCLA, Pepperdine University, and UT Austin.
Deeply involved in the Central Texas community, Jon contributes his time and talent to organizations such as the Aging Services Council of Central Texas, AustinUP, National Association of Senior Advocates, Central Texas Food Bank, and the Paramount Theatre.
Outside of work, Jon enjoys music, film, humor, food, and history.
