Moving in together is a huge step in any relationship. A little extra planning can go a long way in a smooth transition. To prevent undue stress on yourself or your relationship, take the proper precautions to ensure you are prepared for this next step. This helpful list for moving in together should help you get organized. To make things easier, we created the checklist below and divided it up by time.
3 MONTHS OUT
Discuss who will pay for what. Know in advance how much each party is able to contribute financially and any bills they will be adding.
Prepare your financial documents. Gather bank statements, pay stubs, proof of employment and landlord reference letters. Having all of this documentation on hand will make rental applications easier.
Make a list of what you have, what you need and what you need to store. Taking the time to write these lists will save you time and money in the long run. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time for this task. Storage is always an option for the couch or armoire you can’t part with, but don’t have room for. We make renting storage easy, call us today.
Divide up responsibilities. The benefit of moving in with your partner is that you don’t have to sort it all out on your own! Decide who is best at what and disperse the stress a little.
1 MONTH OUT
Sign the lease. When this needs to happen depends on the real estate market in your community, but give yourself plenty of time to find the perfect place.
Take measurements. Measure both of your furniture items and the new home to make sure everything you have will fit. This also helps when planning additional purchases.
Rent a moving van or hire a mover. If you plan on moving yourself, make sure you have the tools to make it successful.
Buy plenty of boxes. Use the list you created of what you have to assess how many boxes you will need and then add a few extra. Not sure what kind of boxes you’ll need?
Purchase packing supplies. If you have valuable art or delicate china, make sure you have the appropriate materials to move it safely. Stop by our office for packing supplies and covers.
Take the day off. Do yourself a favor and use it for moving day. You can thank us later.
1 WEEK OUT
Transition all of your bills to your new home. Inform your service providers you are moving and make sure your partner does the same.
Begin packing boxes as far in advance as you can. Be strategic when you are packing to avoid chaos once you start to unpack.
Label everything. Label Label Label. We can’t say it enough. You will be combining the possessions of two people, this step is extra important.
Clear the fridge. Avoid grocery shopping this close to your move date. Time to start clearing your cabinets, freezer and fridge of any perishable goods.
Pack a overnight bag. Packing a change of clothes and toiletries in case you don’t have time to get the essentials unpacked on moving day can be a lifesaver.
Put in a change of address.. This allows mail to be forwarded to the proper place.
MOVING DAY
Wrap glass tables or large electronics in towels or sheets. Avoid damaging your possessions in the move by ensuring they are as protected as possible.
Keep each room’s boxes together. Make sure your living room items stay together and your bathroom items are all in the same place. This will expedite the unpacking process and makes emptying the moving van easier.
Wear appropriate clothes.
Your wear during moving day may seem unessential to you, but do not underestimate it. Put on comfortable clothes, because it will be a really long day. Also, to protect yourself from any injures, avoid clothes and shoes with ties. Loose-fitted clothes are more likely to cause troubles too. If you are performing a long distance trip, take into consideration that there might be a weather drop. In this case you will need to change clothes during the trip, so keep a pair of clean clothes with you just in case.
Above all, don’t overdo it. To avoid feeling overwhelmed, make moving your sole task for the day. Keep your cell phones charged. Stay hydrated, pack snacks, and take short breaks when you need them. Moving day might be hectic, but if you’re prepared, you can help it go off without a hitch.
