Initiating the process of buying a home, whether you are a first-time homebuyer or an existing homeowner, and completing the entire process can be a months-long and fairly stressful experience. If you are lucky enough to afford to buy and own a home in Canada’s currently challenging housing market, there is still more to do even after you have finished finalizing the purchase. 

Today, we will share what can be characterized as an essential (but by no means complete checklist of the things you can do in advance of, and during the move, to your new home that can make this process relatively stress-free and smooth.

Before You Move

  1. Make a list: Moving out of your current residence and into a new space offers you the perfect opportunity to take stock of your possessions. What is it that you want to take with you? What is it that you want to leave behind or donate? And what needs to be discarded? Check and make a list—what can be packed in advance, what needs to stay out till the very end, etc. Doing this will help you spread out your packing chores over several weeks, if not days, and help take the pressure off.
  2. Packing supplies: If you already know the final date for your move, it is advisable to buy packing supplies in advance. You would definitely need moving boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, box cutters, permanent markers, box labels (you can buy pre-made ones or make your own at home), and a good pair of scissors.
  3. Walk through your new living space: If you can, doing a quick tour of your new home while it is still empty, helps you visualize what goes where in advance. Bring along a tape measure to plan for furniture and wall-hanging placements. This will make your mover's job easy too. Don’t forget to check if all the necessary repairs promised by the previous owner have been completed and that all appliances, fixtures, locks, doors, and windows are in good working condition.
  4. Check the essentials: You should be familiar with your new home’s key fixtures, such as the location of the circuit breaker, fuse box, water valve, the carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms, heating and cooling vents, etc. Make sure the previous owner hands over all the necessary warranties, receipts, and maintenance guides for home appliances, fixtures, etc. 
  5. Clean thoroughly: It is easier to give your new living space, especially kitchen appliances, light fixtures, and bathrooms, a thorough refresh before you move in and while the house is still empty. Also make sure the house is dirt, debris, mold, and pest-free.
  6. Clean the floors and carpets last: Hire a professional cleaner to do this, especially if you have carpeting in the house. 
  7. Budget for the first few months: The expenses involved in buying a new home and moving can quickly add up. You should also plan in advance for any unexpected repairs or expenses that might come up after your move.  

Just Before You Move

  1. Schedule any minor repair work: If your new home needs some minor repairs or fixes—plumbing or electrical, or even a fresh coat of paint, make sure you complete these before you move. Will make one thing less for you to do later.
  2. Transfer the utilities: You should notify your utility company about your move and if you plan to transfer or cancel the electricity, gas, water, or other services. Do the same for your telephone company and internet provider. 
  3. Stock up on ready-to-eat meals: Moving can be physically grueling, so if you’d rather not order takeout every day for the first few nights after you move, stock up your freezer with a few ready-to-eat meals.
  4. Pack a suitcase with just the essentials: It may be a while before you finish unpacking so make sure you pack a suitcase with just a few sets of clothes, toiletries, and other essentials to get you through the first couple of days. 
  5. Pack for your pets: Make sure you have enough pet food and treats; and your pet’s food bowls and any other essential supplies are handy, for the first few days.
  6. Check out your neighborhood: If you drive, do a quick recce to get a sense of what is in and around your neighborhood—the closest grocery stores, gas stations, hospitals, banks, parks, etc.  

After You Move

  1. Don’t unload all boxes in one room: If you are using a moving company, have them spread out the boxes, especially heavy furniture, based on the rooms they go into instead of keeping it all in one place. Would also save you the effort of having to haul the boxes yourself later.
  2. Update your mailing and billing addresses: Update online or notify the relevant federal, provincial or municipal offices about your change of address. You would need to do the same with your bank, credit card company (if different from your bank), and insurance provider. Let your friends and family know too.
  3. Change the locks: To ensure better security, it is advisable to change the house locks as soon as possible after you move. If the house doesn’t have one, install a new security system. 
  4. Say hello to your new neighbors: Meet and get to know your new neighbors. Host a housewarming party once you have settled in.

If you have recently bought or sold your home and are planning to move soon, do get in touch with RE/MAX Royal Team Sachdeva Realty for more information on how we can help you by offering a range of services to make the moving out and moving in a breeze.

Have a good weekend!