Moving Home Tips
Now you’ve found your dream home, the completion papers have been signed and you’re ready to move in, there are a few moving home tips to make sure the process goes without a hitch and as smoothly as possible.
Firstly, if possible communicate with the previous owners, and ask if they will be leaving the house in a clean and tidy condition. There is nothing worse than turning up with boxes to your new abode, only to find you have to clean every cupboard and bathroom before you dare place your personal possessions anywhere.
Most previous owners will be happy to give you multiple viewings so you can take measurements and make sure that your belongings will fit, even if this is not allowed, spending some time in the local area could be beneficial. Usually you will have a good month in order to prepare for the moving date. Use this time wisely, and plan as much as you can. Lists are your friend, and initially this is what you should aim to cross off weeks before the removal men arrive.
Moving Home Tips: A Breakdown
- Removals – Will you be hiring a man with a van, a removals firm or doing it yourself? It does all depend on the budget allocated and of course on the amount of furniture you have. You may wish to start with a blank slate; however the pressure will be much less if a removal firm is used. These will insure your belongings in case they are lost or broken in transit and on the day or you’ll have to worry about is making those cups of tea. Booking in advance ensures you won’t be let down, and also gives you more time to shop around. Prices can vary, so a little preparation could save you hundreds of pounds. Ask if it’s a fixed price quote or an hourly rate as if the previous owners are late leaving, each minute could costs you more money. If you have chosen to hire a van and do it yourself, take it for a test drive first; visibility is a lot different to that of a car, and will be even worse when the back is full to the roof with furniture.
- Boxes – It’s never too early to order boxes; most packaging firms will deliver them with tissue, packaging tape and a pen. Make sure you label everything clearly, letting the removal firm (or friends) know exactly where to place each box. Some removal firms offer free boxes with their service. Don’t forget to ask when you book, as this an often slip their mind. If you are on a budget try to save money by approaching fruit and vegetable shops, they will be pleased to release their boxes, saving them a trip to the recycling centre.
- Utilities – Most utilities need a few weeks notice in order to guarantee the service from the day you move in. As soon as you have your agreed date let everyone know. Even if you’re moving out of a parent’s house, you still expect to arrive to a working phone, electricity and running water. Set up direct debits, and use this time to organise your new finances as a homeowner, putting a little away for unexpected maintenance costs that a landlord will no longer take care of.
- Inform People – Your doctor, hospital, boss, even your current milkman needs to know about your change of address. Make sure you include these in the list when sending out new home cards to relatives and friends.
- Tidy Up – If you are moving out of rented accommodation, spend at least the last month tidying up. Your bond will be a great cash injection for the move, and landlords can be quite tricky customers when the time comes for it to be handed back. Check your tenancy agreement and make sure everything is as it was detailed in the original inventory – even down to the sink plug! We’ve written a post specially for cleaning an empty property, so be sure to read it whilst packing your things.
There are many other tips that make the moving day smoother, such as wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes in, these save a mountain of time on packing and subsequent ironing. Then a clearly marked box in the car containing the kettle, coffee sugar and milk (don’t forget the cups), these will ensure everyone is refreshed instantly when reaching your new destination.
Above all, book some time off to take in your surroundings and to leisurely unpack, after all a change is as good as a rest!
