You’ve found your dream home, signed all the paperwork and secured your mortgage. All that’s left is the fun part: moving in. However, whether you’re upsizing or downsizing, moving house can be just as stressful as trying to find your perfect property. There’s a lot to remember, some of which you may not have even thought of. That’s why we’ve put together this handy checklist to help make your move a little easier and ensure that you don’t forget a thing.
Confirm your moving date.
First thing’s first: decide on a moving date, and work backwards from there. If possible, book a few days off work on either side to give you time to prepare. It’s a good idea to give yourself a day or two to get things ready in your new home too. Jobs like painting and cleaning the carpets, for example, are easier done before all of your boxes arrive.
If you’re renting, give your landlord notice.
If you’re currently in a rented property and your lease isn’t due to end anytime soon, you’ll most likely need to give your landlord notice to find another tenant. Do this as soon as you’ve sealed the deal on your new home. Otherwise, you could end up paying for both rent and your mortgage at the same time.
Let people know where you’re going.
Arrange to have your mail held or redirected to your new home. Notify the appropriate authorities of your new address too, including the
Electoral Office and the state driving license and vehicle registration authority. Remember to review your home and contents insurance too, and have a shop around to see if you could get a better deal.
Create a floor plan.
Prepare for move-in day by creating a floor plan of your new house or flat. This will help you decide where to put your furniture. Remember to take measurements to ensure you have enough space for larger items.
Don’t neglect those nooks and crannies.
The spaces you might not go into every day – like the garden shed, attic, garage or understairs cupboard – can often be the most time-consuming to pack up. Don’t leave them to the last minute, and set aside plenty of time to sort through all the stuff you’ve accumulated.
Have a clear-out
Now is the perfect time for a spring clean. Sort through all your clothes, keepsakes and furniture, and before you box anything up, decide if it’s worthy of a place in your new home. If it’s not worth keeping, drop it off at the local charity shop or arrange a yard sale.
Get rid of your garbage
Chances are you’ll come across a lot of items that aren’t worth packing, donating or selling. Organise a rubbish pickup with your local council in advance, and your bins won’t become overwhelmed.
Sort out your bills.
Let all your utility suppliers know you’re leaving your property. These could be the suppliers of your gas, WiFi, electricity, as well as your phone company. You may want to transfer some contracts and cancel others, but remember to set up new plans for your new address if necessary. Before you leave, make a note of any final gas and electricity meter readings.
Check your appliances.
Taking your washing machine or dishwasher with you? Read the moving instructions for your large appliances and make sure they arrive safely.
Shop wisely.
Get smart with your grocery shopping. Don’t buy more than you need for the week, and use up any opened packets of food. Depending on how close you are to moving day, it may be a good idea to start using up any items in the freezer too.
Schedule any repairs.
Take the stress out of the first few months in your new home by arranging for any necessary plumbing, electrical and remodelling work to be done before you move in.
Book a removal company, and choose carefully.
Most of us have far too many belongings to safely move ourselves, so you’ll need a removalist you can depend upon. Southside Removals & Storage are a reputable, family-owned company who have been helping people move since 1968. We can help you with everything from pre-packing before the big day to unpacking your boxes when you arrive.
Contact us for a quick quote and for more helpful tips and advice on packing and moving house. Please allow up to six weeks to plan your move
