AD – Collaborative post.
Whether you are buying or renting, there is so much to think about when it comes to moving house. You’ll probably be worrying and stressing about packing, whether you have organised everything for the move and what the kids will be doing (if you have any) on the big day. As there is so much going on before the move it’s easy to forget some of the really important things to do once you’re in your new home!
Pre-move visit
If you’re able to, it’s worthwhile to visit your new home before you actually move in. You have no idea how the previous owners might have left the property and it could need a good clean and a sort out before you arrive with all of your belongings. Our house was quite grubby on the day we picked up the keys and we also didn’t think about the fact that all of the curtains and blinds would be gone. By taking a walk around before we moved in we were able to clean the whole house and get some temporary window dressings for rooms like the living room and bedroom.
Change the locks
This one might not be suitable for renters but it is a must if you are a homeowner. One of the first things you should do after moving into a new (bought) home is to have the locks changed. The previous owners could have an unlimited amount of keys and you have no idea who they might have given a spare to. Be sure to book in a reliable locksmith who can make sure your home is safe and only accessibly by the new owners!
Meter readings
One of the first things you should do when you move into a new house, rented or bought, is to make a note of the meter readings. The previous owners should have done this when they closed their accounts down but you want to make sure you’re moving in not owing money because of someone else. It’s easy to sort out energy suppliers on the first day in your new home and it means one job less to worry about down the line.
Put together a food order
When you’re moving, especially on the big day, there is so much going on and so much to think about. Every time I have moved I have run down my fridge and freezer beforehand so that I’m not taking food with me. Obviously you don’t want to spend the first days in your new home without any food so it’s important to put together an online food shop in advance. This will give you one less thing to worry about and it also gives you a chance to use up anything from the old house.
Redirect your mail
Even if you change your address with companies ahead of time it can still take months for your post to reach the right address as databases take time to be updated. Royal Mail offer a great redirection service and it’s definitely worth paying for for the first couple of months. We have lived in our house for 5 years now and we still get the odd letter for the previous owners and the ones before them!
What advice would you give for someone about to move?
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