Top Tips on Preparing to Move Home

2 Sep 2016

by Helen Thring

Once you have agreed to sell your home there will come a time when the big day arrives and you need to move. Understandably, moving home is considered one of life’s more stressful events but if you plan well there is no reason why it cannot happen fairly smoothly.

As with most logistical challenges, moving home requires prior planning and clear and effective communication. Speaking directly with utility companies and removals firms is a must, but make sure you also confirm arrangements clearly in writing. Then consider the following;

• Keep a file or notebook entirely and specifically for the move. Make all notes in it, including contacts, conversations with third parties, etc.
• Diarise the main events and make sure everyone is kept abreast of changes.
• Calculate all likely moving costs and allow for this expense in your monthly cashflow. Moving isn’t cheap! Consider visiting local superstores and offer to take some of their surplus cardboard boxes off them – every little helps!
• Contact all utilities, suppliers, third parties, the council and friends and family and let them know when you plan to move and to where. Consider setting up a 6 month change of address / mail forwarding service with the Post Office.
• Obtain several quotes from moving companies. Make sure each quote is based on the same specification of work and ensure that they are properly insured for the job they are doing. Don’t be afraid to ask for customer references.
• Prime your new home for your arrival. Make sure that you do all you can to ready your new home for arrival. Clarify whether you will have gas, electricity and water when you arrive. Read all the meters when you move and report the readings to the appropriate supplier. Consider taking photographs of the meters with your phone. If you have the luxury of taking possession of your new home before you move in, try to have any work done or redecoration undertaken before you move in – it’s much simpler!
• Plan your new rooms before you pack your old ones. That way all items go to the correct place in your new home. Less movement, less chance of breakage or scuffed walls.
• Label your boxes and make sure they have strong bottoms!
• Keep a box or two seperate with essentials such as tea, coffee, kettle, etc and also some towels, soap, food, clothing and bedding. Having a shower and a bed available for the end of the day is always nice.
• If the kids are old enough, get them involved. If not, ask a family member to look after them during the move. Moving your home is hard enough without having to keep an eye on the little ones too!

Finally, once you’re moved in, make sure to pop around to say hi to your neighbours. You’ll meet them one day, why not make a positive first impression. It also gives you an opportunity to borrow that cup of sugar or bottle of bleach you need. After all, this is your new home.