Are you thinking of taking the next big step with your partner, i.e. moving in together? Then, prepare yourself for a few very busy months ahead. It’s common knowledge that any house move is stressful, however, it can become even more taxing when a couple decides to start sharing a flat. In order to avoid any unnecessary anxiety during the relocation process, there are a few things you need to take into account. Let’s see what the experts recommend.
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Decide on a place to live
When embarking on the journey of moving in together, it’s crucial to take some essential steps to ensure a smooth relocation for both partners. Careful planning and making decisions regarding the logistics of the move are key to success, no matter if only one of you is relocating or both are starting anew in a new place. A good way to go about this is to
Evaluate space and location compatibility
Begin by assessing whether both sets of belongings can comfortably fit into either partner’s current living space. This evaluation not only helps in determining the practicality of merging households but also helps you decide what items to keep, discard, or donate. Additionally, consider factors such as proximity to workplaces, public transportation facilities, essential amenities, and frequently visited places like grocery stores, schools, etc. Choosing a location that suits both partners’ needs can contribute to a smooth transition and harmonious daily life.
Financial considerations before moving in together
It is crucial to research the financial aspects of the move. Compare the costs of council tax and utilities for both relocation options to determine the most economical alternative. This step can help you plan your budget effectively and avoid unexpected financial strains. By being proactive in understanding the financial aspects, couples can make informed decisions that support their long-term financial stability.
Move into a new home
If you are seeking a fresh start, finding a new home together can symbolise a significant milestone in your relationship. Opting for a neutral space devoid of past attachments or memories from previous relationships can foster a sense of equality and unity. This allows you to create a shared environment that reflects your collective vision and aspirations. It’s an opportunity to build new memories and strengthen the bond with your partner as you embark on the exciting journey of moving in together.
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Compile a list of essentials
Remember when we talked about spending attitudes? Many people want different luxuries in their homes, however, sometimes they forget that this may cost them a lot of money. That’s why you need to have a more realistic approach. Separate your wants and your needs. Although both can make your lives better in the long run, your list of essentials should include only the most necessary things. These include:
- type of neighbourhood
- proximity to workplace, schools, bus stops, shops, etc.
- living space
- number of bedrooms
- parking spot
- cost of utilities
- space for your pet, if you have one
Everything else – a lavish study, a big garden or more bathrooms – falls in the wants category and should be considered a bonus, provided you have the budget.
Make an inventory of your items
The next step when moving in together is to make an inventory of all your items. This way, you can see if all of your belongings will fit in your new home. In addition, you can check if you have any duplicate items, such as appliances.
The easiest way to organise your inventory list is to separate all the items you have by categories, such as:
- Furniture
- Small electronics
- Large technical equipment
- Kitchenware and utensils
- Clothes and shoes, etc.
Alternatively, you can create a to-be-moved checklist for each room you have now. There are pros and cons to both approaches, but each of them makes sense in its own way – it’s a matter of personal preference. When you are ready with your list, set aside the unwanted duplicates and divide them by the way you want to get rid of them.
Declutter
After you have your pile of unwanted items, the next step on your moving-in-together checklist is to decide how to dispose of them. Luckily, there are several effective methods you can try:
- Give away to parents and friends
Consider offering your unwanted items to your parents or close friends who may have a use for them. Not only does this declutter your space, but it also ensures that your belongings find a new home where they’ll be appreciated. - Donate
Many organisations gladly accept donations of gently used items, ranging from clothing and furniture to electronics and kitchenware. By donating your possessions, you’re not only clearing out your space but also contributing to a good cause. - Sell online
Another effective option is to list your duplicates for sale online.Just take clear photos, provide accurate descriptions, and set reasonable prices to attract potential buyers.Selling online not only helps with decluttering but also provides some extra cash that can be useful for setting up your new shared living space. - Car boot sale
for those who prefer a more hands-on approach to selling unwanted belongings, participating in a car boot sale can be a rewarding experience. This traditional method involves selling items directly from your car trunk at a local market or event. It offers the opportunity to engage with buyers face-to-face, negotiate prices, and potentially discover bargains for your new home while decluttering your current one.
By incorporating these decluttering techniques, you’ll not only streamline the process but also ensure a fresh start when moving in with your partner.
Label and pack your items together
When it comes to moving in together, organisation is the key and labeling each box with its contents and intended destination ensures a stress-free relocation. As a result, you can place the boxes where they need to go in your new home instead of moving them over and over again. It will also make the job easier for the professional if you decide to hire man with a van service.
To avoid any confusion during the unpacking process, consider labelling your and your partner’s belongings separately. This simple step can save you both time and frustration, allowing you to settle into your new space with ease.
Working together on the packing process not only strengthens your bond but also makes unpacking a breeze. With both of you aware of what’s inside every box, you can efficiently unpack and organise your belongings. Plus, you can take the opportunity to discuss which decorations will complement your new home and which ones can remain packed away for now.
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Storage
If, after moving in with your partner, there are still items you wish to keep but they don’t fit into the layout of your new place, consider putting them in storage. This is the best option for items that you do not use regularly and still want to keep, such as heirlooms, winter gear and other seasonal items. Most removal companies also offer storage solutions, which is very convenient if you want to transport all of your possessions in one go and save time and money in the process.
Move
It’s moving day! Don’t forget to keep yourself hydrated and take regular breaks. Relocation is always stressful, and it does take a long time, so rushing through the process won’t do you any good, and it can even cause injuries. Before you set out for your new home, label all of your belongings accordingly and make sure you seal the boxes well. If you feel that moving by yourself is too cumbersome a task, you can always rely on the Fantastic Removals team to help you out with your house move.
Unpack together
Moving in together is exciting but it can also be a daunting task, especially when it comes to unpacking and settling into your new space. To make the transition smoother, focus on unpacking the essentials. These are the items you use daily, such as toiletries, bedding, kitchen essentials, etc. Starting with these basics will help you feel more at home and reduce the overwhelm of unpacking.
Before diving into unpacking, take a moment to create a plan. Decide which room to tackle first and break it down into smaller, manageable sections. For example, if you’re starting in the bedroom, begin with the bed, then move on to the dresser, closet, and nightstands. Having a clear plan will make the unpacking process feel less chaotic and more organised.
It’s important to remember that unpacking doesn’t have to be completed in a single day. So, take your time and pace yourself to avoid stress and burnout. Combining your personal styles takes time and if they are polar opposites, you may need to compromise for the sake of your relationship. Keep an open mind and always discuss these things with your partner before you take any action.
Takeaway
Moving in with your partner marks a significant milestone filled with both excitement and stress. However, with careful planning and organisation, the process can be less overwhelming.
Start by creating a moving-in-together checklist to streamline the relocation journey. Break down your list into actionable steps, covering everything from listing belongings to arranging the removal process. Planning ahead is key to a stress-free move, so be thorough and mindful of budget considerations along the way.
Living with a partner comes with its challenges, but the rewards far outweigh them. By meticulously planning and organising everything according to your checklist for moving in together, you’ll enjoy a stress-free experience and the cosy environment of your shared space.
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