If you’re like most people, moving into your first home is a big deal. It’s the beginning of a new chapter in your life, so it’s important to take the time to get everything just right before you start living there.
You’re about to embark on a journey that can be overwhelming, exhausting and a lot of fun. But with a little preparation and a few helpful tips, you can avoid making your experience worse than it has to be.
1. Create a checklist to keep you on track of all the things that need to happen during your move.
You should make a list of all the important tasks that need to be completed in your new home, whether it’s setting up your utilities or packing up all your belongings. Once you have a list, it’s easier to see what needs to be done at a glance and prioritize which tasks need to be done first.
2. Check your utility provider to ensure that your service is switched over to your new house or apartment.
You may have to pay a transfer fee and a set-up charge for your new utility provider, so make sure you research them ahead of time.
3. Make sure that you have the correct insurance coverage for your move, including renters’ and homeowners’ insurance.
Having the proper insurance in place can prevent a lot of problems from happening in your new home, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you are protected.
4. Organize your papers and files so you know where to find everything in the event of an emergency.
You might be tempted to throw away your old paper documents and computer files, but if they contain vital information, it’s best to keep them safe. Keeping copies of these documents and photos in a folder can help you make sure that they are never lost or damaged.
5. Save all your family heirlooms and other irreplaceable items for the future, so that you can purchase them again once you’re settled into your new home.
6. Pack a box of essentials that you’ll need on your first day in the house, such as bedding, pillows and towels.
Keeping these items in one box will help you identify them and avoid forgetting them when you’re unpacking the rest of your belongings.
7. Back up all your files, photos and important records to a computer or external hard drive.
Getting all of your files and pictures backed up before your move will make it much less likely that you’ll lose important data or photos during the move, as well as the transition into your new home.
8. Put your key documents and other important information in a handy folder that you’ll be able to access easily when you need it.
9. Invest in some good cleaning supplies, especially if you’re you first moving into an apartment that has been lived in and walked on previously.
10. Get a chancel repair liability policy for your new property, if necessary.