Finding a new place to live is a slow journey that can be exciting, stressful, exhausting, and generally overwhelming. Moving out takes time and planning.
The first step is to go through your finances. Can you afford to move?
Next comes house hunting. Tip: Be sure to take notes and photos so you can remember which house had what and where.
Finally, after what seems like an endless loop of climbing stairs, you find a nice place that checks everything on your list. Time to move! You’ve signed papers and made payments.
What’s next?
The key is to simplify. You don’t have to have everything right away, focus on the essentials. Planning is necessary, be sure to write as many checklists as needed so that nothing is left forgotten or undone.
In the month or so leading up to moving day, make sure you have thoroughly inspected the new space. Report any existing damages. Familiarize yourself with the area, ask about security measures, collect keys, change the locks, etc. You should also talk to your future neighbours; there could be unspoken rules or situations that were not anticipated.
Start packing early and take advantage of the packing process to de-clutter. Give away, throw away, or sell things that you don’t use anymore.
Start buying/ collecting packing materials such as large bags, tape, old newspapers, and carton boxes. Don’t wait till last minute! You might not have a lot of ‘stuff’ but packing takes time.
Make a budget. It’s easy to overspend when moving into a new space because we tend to buy a lot of things ‘just in case’.
Only buy what you need. Get comfortable with your new space before purchasing decorative pieces. Don’t buy things assuming that you’ll find ‘somewhere’ to put them.
Inform the necessary people that you’re moving house. Landlords, caretakers, family members and most of the services you’re used to use the address you currently have. Don’t forget to inform them ahead of time.
Clean the new space before moving in. Clean like you’ve never cleaned before! The cobwebs in the corners, the mirrors, cupboards, drawers, and handles on doors… clean it all. It’s much easier to thoroughly clean an empty, open space.
Ask around for reliable movers and make sure you talk with them in advance. Know their terms. Some movers only provide transport but won’t help you offload. Find a good match that works for you.
And finally, if you’re struggling, don’t be afraid to ask for help! Pace yourself. Don’t try to do everything overnight. Have a plan. Moving can be fun… you know, eventually, when it’s finally done. You got this!
