Things to do before moving into a new house
Sian Hiatt, Sales Manager, shares a few tips to help the home moving process run as smoothly as possible as the big moving day edges closer...
I’m sure most of us would agree that moving into a new house is among the most stressful events we experience, especially for those who are moving from one house to another for the first time. It’s exciting, but it can also prove overwhelming and full of chaos, ultimately leaving you exhausted and at time simply wanting the whole thing to be over and done with.
Moving to a new house doesn’t always have to be so stressful. There are things you can do to ensure good preparation leads to less chaos in the lead up to moving day, which will not only reduce stress levels and make the whole experience far more enjoyable but can be cost-effective as well.
Below are a few things I’d recommend you do to achieve just that during your move:
A thorough clear out
By thorough clear out, we’re talking ruthless. Anything you don’t need, find a way to get rid of it. It’s helpful to work through your property in a methodical way, attacking every room one-by-one so that you have the chance to go through everything. You can create piles depending on how you plan to get rid of it - a charity shop pile, one for a car boot sale, things that need to be taken to the local tip. If it’s something that hasn’t be used for a while, ask yourself if it’s really something you need. Remember - be ruthless!
Tidy up your garden and outside areas
The appearance of your garden and outdoor spaces can make all the difference in your property’s appearance, and in turn can help add value to your property and increase interest levels among buyers. Check to make sure your garage and shed haven’t become dumping grounds over the years. Tackling disorganised areas early in the moving process will make you feel as though you’re well ahead of yourself and should spur you on.
Organise your belongings
While you’re sifting through things you can get rid of, organise the belongings you’re wanting to keep at the same time. All essential items that you can’t part with can be carefully packed away. Make an inventory listing all of the items and clearly label all of the boxes so that whoever transports them to the new property (be it yourself, friends, family or a professional removal company) will know where to put them. As you’re going through each room and organising everything, why not give them a clean as well? You can take your time if this is all planned well in advance, meaning less stress in the final few days before you do move.
Get your paperwork in order
Many people just bundle their paperwork inside a few drawers and let it all pile up out of control. It’s not often you need quick access to certain documents or paperwork - but during a house move is one of those times when you’re most likely to. Create files to keep your documents safe and give them appropriate titles so that you can quickly locate what you’re specifically looking for. These could be individual files that hold things such as paperwork related to your current property, the new property, solicitors letters, bank information, wage slips, utility bills, passports etc.
While going through your paperwork, this gives you the opportunity to recycle anything that’s no longer required so that you’re left with only important and relevant paperwork and documents. Remember to destroy any unwanted documents that have your personal details on them.
Prepare electronic devices and appliances
Extra care should be taken when it comes to moving electronic goods. Home appliances such as dishwashers, fridges and washing machines should be fully emptied, drained and dried, and all major appliances should be switched off the day before being moved so they have the chance to fully cool down before transportation.
Any CDs or DVDs should be removed from computers or other electronic devices, and it always helps to take a picture of any electrical set up before disconnecting everything so that it’s easy to connect it all correctly again once you’re in your new place.
If you’re thinking of moving, then don’t hesitate to contact our property sales experts here at CPS Homes. With branches across Cardiff, we’re here to help you sell your property and secure the perfect new home. Call us on 02920 668585, e-mail enquiries@cpshomes.co.uk or pop in branch and speak to us.
