Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming. There are countless tasks to tackle before you settle into your new space. With some smart planning (and maybe a few deep breaths), you can make the big move smooth, efficient and yes, even a little fun.
1. Make a Master Checklist (Your Brain Will Thank You)
Trying to remember everything is a recipe for stress. Instead, make a checklist and tackle one item at a time.
Bonus tip: Checking things off feels amazing so put everything on your list, even small things, so you can go ahead and strike through those tasks with dramatic flair!
2. Get the Utilities Set Up (No One Likes a Cold Shower)
Imagine moving in, only to find you can’t turn on the lights or take a hot shower. Yikes! Call your utility companies in advance to get the power, water and Wi-Fi flowing before moving day. Trust us, future you (and your kids) will be grateful.
Bonus tip: For most utilities you can call ahead of time and let them know your settlement date. They will switch the account into your name that day…saves you from having to contact all your utilities on settlement day.
3. Inspect Like You’re on a Home Improvement Show
Before you fill your new home with boxes, give it a good inspection. Check for leaks, test outlets and peek under sinks. Spot something weird? Better to know now than after you’ve unpacked everything.
4. Brighten Up with New Lighting
Thinking about upgrading the lighting or adding smart switches? Don’t wait until after you move in to contact an electrician. Reach out to a trusted electrician as soon as your offer is accepted to get a quote and schedule for right after settlement. Your electrician will love not having to work around your furniture and may even be able to get the job done faster (which could save you money).
Wafer lighting is a game changer for creating a bright, welcoming space from day one and smart switches allow you to control your lighting from anywhere.
Bonus tip: Have other projects that you are going to want done within the first month of moving. Make sure to contact your service professionals prior to settlement to check availability. The more notice you can give a service pro, the more likely you are to get the companies you want to work with and your contractors will thank you for the advanced notice!
5. Pack Like a Pro (Or at Least Try)
Label everything. No one wants to play “Guess That Box” at 11 p.m. on moving night. And don’t forget an essentials box with toiletries, chargers and snacks (aka survival kit 101).
It is also a good idea to not only label what is in the box but what room you want it to go to, that way your movers (aka family and friends) know where to put the boxes. The last thing you want to do is stand at the door on moving day, saying where each box must go.
Bonus Tip: If you want to be ultra organized, you could use different colored duct tape to close the boxes based on the room the boxes go to!
6. Change Your Address (Don’t Ghost Your Mail)
Change your address everywhere you can prior to moving or start making a list of address changes that will need to take place. Once you move you will have other priorities, the last thing you want to do is try and think about every place you need to change your address, plus if you add these to your checklist (as suggested in point #1), you get to check some things off the list.
It is also a good idea to forward your mail. The best part of this, you can submit the request in advance and let them know the day you want mail to start forwarding!
🏡 With a little planning, some patience and a few pro tips (like planning your home projects in advance), you’ll be kicking back in your new home in no time. Happy Moving! 😊
If you’ve moved a lot, what are we missing. Reach out and we may include your ideas in a future post. Have topics relating to electrical, construction or home DIY that you would like us to cover. Let us know!