Moving into a new home usually comes with an equal measure of excitement and stress.
With a little foresight and planning though, even the most challenging move can go smoothly. Here are ten tips to ensure the first moments in your new home are remembered for all the right reasons.
1. Declutter
It’s amazing how much ‘stuff’ you can accumulate, especially if you’ve lived in one place for several years. So in the weeks leading up to a move, it’s a good idea to sort and declutter your cupboards, shed and storage areas. The ‘six month rule’ is a good one - if you haven’t used something for six months or more, give it away or have a garage sale and sell it.
2. Make a moving folder
Keeping all your documentation together makes life so much easier. Details of the property sale, utilities like gas and electricity, removalist receipts and contact details, emails and the like can all be kept in a folder for easy access.
3. Book removalists early
Good removalists are usually booked months in advance, so as soon as you know your moving date, get on the phone. A good removalist won’t just take care of your possessions but your peace of mind too.
4. Starting packing in advance
Have the non essential items packed well before the move. The clothes that are out of season, your camping and fishing gear, Christmas decorations and the like can all be sorted and packed ahead of your everyday items.
5. Label boxes
Use a marker pen or label to indicate where each box is going. A box clearly marked ‘dining room’ is far less likely to end up in a bedroom.
6. Schedule utilities for the new place
Notify your water, gas and electricity companies to not only connect your new home’s utilities, but to disconnect at your current home.
7. Keep essentials and valuables with you
The last thing you want to be doing is looking through boxes for bed linen, towels, tea bags, toilet paper, the kids’ pyjamas or your wallet. Carry these items in the car with you so you’re ready for your first night in your new home.
8. Get the kids sorted first
Young children especially often don’t like change, so ensure the transition is as easy as possible for them one you’re in your new home. Unpack their rooms first so your new home quickly starts to feel like their home.
9. Unpack the rest quickly too
You’ll be tired after the move, but it’s always a good idea to unpack as quickly as possible. Start with the bedrooms then the kitchen and living areas, doing one room at a time so there’s a sense of achievement as you go.
10. Enjoy
Celebrate your arrival. Crack open a bottle of champagne and spend a few moments just enjoying your achievement and your new home.
