Congratulations on securing a new house. Finding a home can be very stressful, not to mention packing to make the move. Fortunately, there are some steps to follow to save money on the move and some tried and true advice on what to do when you actually arrive at your new location.
It may seem like all of the preparation went into the set-up for the move, but it’s not over just yet. Whether you found a top-tier moving company to move your things or used a cheaper service, long-distance moving can be overwhelming on its own, let alone moving into a new house. If you’re moving locally, this isn’t as much of an issue. Use this guide to ensure that you’re ready for not just the moving process, but the move-in process as well.
1. Do a Walkthrough
If it’s available to you, walking through your new house while it’s empty is a helpful step before moving in. If the house was staged when you previously saw it, seeing it as a blank canvas gives you the opportunity to plan how your own belongings will fit in. Bring a tape measure to plan even more accurately where items like furniture will go—it will save you hassle when unloading the moving van later if you already know where things belong.
In addition to using the walkthrough as a vision board, it’s important to note that all of the terms of the sale were completed. Check on any agreed-upon repairs, appliances that were supposed to be left (or were supposed to be taken out), working order of outlets, switches and fixtures, etc. If there’s an issue, the sooner you bring it up with the appropriate party, the better.
If you’re moving out of state and an in-person walkthrough isn’t in the cards, schedule a virtual one with your realtor. Some companies also offer 3-D scans of living spaces so that you can take a digital tour on your own time, and measure dimensions from afar.
2. Take Safety Precautions for Children and Pets
If you’re moving with young children or pets, you’ll need to take extra steps to ensure their safety in a new environment. In addition to the standard things—like outlets, sharp edges, open doors and windows—keep an eye on temporary moving-specific hazards as well.
Make sure scissors and box cutters are far from reach, keep boxes with dangerous items (cleaning supplies, glass, etc.) in a separate space and ensure packing materials aren’t confused for playthings.
