How To Take The Hassle Out Of Move-In Day

Move-in day is one of the most dreaded aspects of the moving process, but should really be one of the most exciting. It’s where your property dreams come to fruition after months of careful planning, and signifies the beginning of a new chapter. However, without careful planning, move-in day can be a hectic procedure, which is why Centrick have come up with 7 simple steps to take the hassle out of your move-in day:

Preparation Is Key

This may sound like an immensely simple point to make, but making inadequate preparations for your move-in day will leave your relocation plans without structure and far more prone to failure. You should plan your moving arrangements far in advance to take the guesswork out of the process – where will you store your belongings during the move? Do you have a place to stay in the interim? What documentation will you require for exchange? Do you need to arrange meter readings? 

Arrange Transport

In all likelihood, you won’t be able to move furniture in just your car! You’ll need to hire a van in advance, especially if you’re transporting large furniture items. Hire a large vehicle to transport your belongings safely and without fuss, and decide whether you wish for a removal firm to assist you or whether you will do this on your own. It is also important to consider precisely how many items you will be moving with – after all, some sales include white goods, sofas and other furniture pieces, and some may choose to donate furniture and other household during the moving process. Make a clear list of what you’ll be donating, leaving and taking to your next home in order to make the most appropriate travel arrangements.

Buy Useful Moving Tools

There’s nothing worse than getting into the stride of sorting out your belongings ready for moving day, and running out of labels, tape or boxes. Make sure you have all of the tools you need for your move – here are a few suggestions:

• Reusable boxes that can double up as permanent storage in your new home
• Drills, hammers and screwdrivers that can help you deconstruct furniture 
• Tape measure to help you plan the movement of large furniture pieces, and assist in the planning of transporting such items
• Label maker to ensure that you know precisely what you’re packing, and where it goes
• Vacuum seal bags for soft furnishings and clothes that would otherwise take up an abundance of space

Redirect Your Post

It is vital that you redirect your post in advance of your move-in day so you don’t miss all-important letters. We recommend using a mail redirection service to assist you in contacting your banks, subscription services and council bodies in redirecting your post. It may also be an ideal opportunity for you to go paperless and receive digital letters rather than physical ones, thereby reducing your paper waste. In any case, you should still make sure to inform any companies that require your address of your property move.

You will also have to alter your address on key documentation such as your drivers licence, whilst also informing your GP (or perhaps changing your GP to one nearby), updating your details on the electoral role and informing the DVLA if you have any vehicles. Lastly, remember to update your TV licence! 

Arrange Payments

Ensure that you have set up your standing orders for your mortgage, energy bills, water bills, and council tax as a priority. Be sure to cancel any existing standing orders that you have planned for your old home. Whilst you’re at it, set up new home and contents insurance to guarantee that your new house and precious belongings are safe.

Ask The Right Questions

Once you’ve grabbed the keys to your new home, it’s time to get acquainted! Make sure you ask the seller or estate agent for information on key parts of your new property. Do you know where the thermostat is? How about the gas and electric meters? Do you have a fire extinguisher on site? If you’re moving into an apartment, do you know where the communal facilities are? What about the fire exits? Is there a managing agency that you’ll require the details for? 

It may be worthwhile producing a comprehensive list of questions prior to moving in to ensure that you have covered all bases, and don’t have to periodically contact your estate agent with questions. 

Don’t Forget Your Estate Agent

Last, but certainly not least, keep in regular contact with your selling agent: after all, communication is key for taking the hassle out of move-in day. Your estate agent is the pivotal centrepiece of your move, as they are in constant communication with each individual that is involved in the sale. Don’t be afraid to contact them for updates or advice, and be diligent in responding to them frequently – otherwise, you could risk delaying the move. 

Got your eye on a new home for 2024? Planning on browsing the depths of Rightmove and Zoopla this festive season in the search for your next property? Whatever your goals for 2024 may be, Centrick have the knowledge to help you achieve them – contact our team of experts using the form below: