Moving?
Here’s everything you need to know
A guide of everything you need to do to ensure a smooth transition.
As closing day approaches, and you’re getting nearer to saying, “Home Sweet Home”, there’s a lot to consider to ensure a smooth transition.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know before, during and after the big day to help you stay organized and make navigating your move a little easier.
Get your supplies
You found your dream home, now the first step is to gather all the right supplies. Stock up on moving boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap and little things like box cutters, permanent markers and scissors. Having these supplies ready sets you up for an easier move.
Start decluttering
Before you start packing, go through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate or discard. The less you have to pack, the easier your move will be. You can also get rid of some stuff by setting up a garage sale or selling items on Facebook Marketplace.
Do your research
Research reputable moving companies to help you move larger items on move-in day. Not all companies are the same, some specialize in local moves while others can help you move across the country.
It’s good to have a list of questions ready to ask while researching. It’ll help you narrow down the list.
Give yourself time to pack everything
Give yourself at least two weeks to pack, and know that packing will likely take longer than you think. Start by first packing any non-essential items, or the items you use least often. Label any boxes with the room they’re destined for to make it easier for you on move-in day. Closer to move-in day, start packing essentials like toiletries, clothes, medications, important documents, and keep these nearby so you don’t lose them in the moving process.
Remember to choose the right packing material depending on if your items are delicate or valuable. You don’t want them to be damaged in the move.
Update your address
Now is the time to update your address. Notify your bank, your phone company, cable and internet provider, hydro services, insurance provider, and subscription services of your impending move. It’s also a good idea to sign up for one year of mail forwarding to ensure that all of your mail follows you to your new home.
Moving day
If you’re paying for utilities on the home you’re moving out of, request a final meter read to ensure you’re only charged for the energy you used.
- Do one last walkthrough to make sure you’re not missing anything and nothing has been overlooked.
- Get the keys to your new home! It’s important for you and your realtor to walk through the new property and confirm that everything is where it should be and all maintenance and repairs have been fulfilled.
After moving day
From meeting the neighbours to exploring the area, setting up your bed, and unpacking all your boxes, there’s lots to celebrate! But here are a couple of more things to remember.
- Check your smoke and C02 detectors to make sure they’re in good working order.
- Change your locks as soon as possible to be sure that only you have access to your new home.