Taking the next step in your relationship and moving in together? Even though it’s an exciting time for both of you, it can be testing. It’s best to be prepared so that moving in together is as smooth as can be and is a positive experience.
In this blog we give you a head start in terms of considerations before moving in together, tips when moving, and provide you with a checklist for moving, all so that you can keep the romance alive from start to finish!
Key Considerations When Moving In Together
There are three important factors to consider when you are considering moving in together. These factors cover your finances, your personal compatibility, and the legal considerations for new cohabiting couples.
1. Financial Compatibility
Financial issues and miscommunication are huge factors in break ups so make sure that before you take the next steps you and your partner discuss budgets, expenses, and how you'll handle shared costs.
Consider your income levels and how you will split the rent or maintenance, groceries, and utilities.
2. Lifestyle Alignment
Daily habits and routines play a big role when living together. Make sure that you understand each other's sleep schedules, cleaning habits and preferences as well as how much alone time you both need.
3. Legal Considerations
It’s best to understand local laws regarding cohabitation. Perhaps consider a cohabitation agreement if unmarried and discuss how to handle joint purchases or property.
Checklist for the Big Move
Moving is a considerable task with many ins and outs. That is why it helps to have a simple checklist to tick off that covers all the things that need to happen to make your move a success.
Before the Move
Moving in together is an exciting step in a relationship, but it requires careful planning and open communication. Before you start packing, take time to declutter your belongings. This is an excellent opportunity to donate or sell items you no longer need and to avoid duplicating household goods.
Before you start packing, take the time to sit together and declutter your belongings. This is an excellent opportunity to identify duplicate household items you no longer need as a couple. Donate these excess items or sell them to help cover your moving costs.
Then you can tick these things off your list before you move:
□ Notify landlords/estate agents
□ Set a moving date
□ Book a removal van or company
□ Begin packing non-essential items
□ Arrange for mail redirection
□ Notify utility companies (current and future)
□ Cancel or transfer subscriptions and services
Packing & Planning
Packing and planning together for your move to your new space is crucial. When two people pack and label items together, the unpacking process is much less stressful as you work together to pack and label every box.
To get started:
□ Collect packing materials (boxes, bubble wrap, tape)
□ Label boxes clearly by room and contents
□ Pack room by room
□ Create an inventory of valuable items
□ Pack an 'essentials' box for the first night
Moving Day
When the big day arrives you or your better half will most likely experience some anxiety. This is when you will truly value our checklist below so can keep track of all the important things to do before settling in your new home.
□ Confirm details with removal company
□ Do final meter readings
□ Clean the old property
□ Check nothing is left behind
□ Lock up and hand over keys
Arriving at Your New Home
Once the hardest part is over, you and your partner can start relaxing and preparing for your cohabitation. But first there are a few simple things to take care of:
□ Check for any damages during the move
□ Locate fuse box and stopcock
□ Take meter readings
□ Unpack essentials box
□ Make the bed for the first night
First Week
Congratulations! You have survived the move, and you have safely had your first night together as a cohabiting couple. Now you can move on to your week one checklist:
□ Unpack and organise room by room
□ Set up Wi-Fi and other utilities
□ Register with local council for council tax
□ Register with a local GP
□ Update address on important documents
□ Arrange contents insurance
Setting Up Home Together
After your first month in your new home, there are five final things to tick off on your moving in together checklist:
□ Decide on decor and furniture placement
□ Create a cleaning rota
□ Set up joint accounts or bill-paying system
□ Establish house rules
□ Plan a housewarming gathering
Storage King Can Help with the Moving in Process
At Storage King we make moving in together easier. We have helped thousands of couples declutter and make space for their new lives together with our personal storage services.
You don't have to get rid of any excess items like furniture, crockery, or any other household items. Rather just place them in long term storage with us.
We also offer all the packaging goods your move will need, including bubble wrap, tape, and much more. Visit your closest store today.
