Moving into your first home is one of life’s most exciting milestones, but it can also feel overwhelming. Between mortgage applications, packing boxes, and coordinating with solicitors, there’s a lot to manage. This comprehensive checklist will guide you through every stage of the moving process, helping you stay organised and confident as you prepare for this big step.
Getting Started: Laying the Groundwork
1. Register with Local Estate Agents
The first step in your home-buying journey is connecting with local estate agents. This is more than just browsing online listings. When you register your specific requirements with agents, you gain access to properties that match your needs, often before they hit the general market. Be clear about your budget, preferred locations, and must-have features.
Don’t be discouraged if properties seem slightly out of reach at first. Estate agents often have insights into motivated sellers or properties that might be negotiable on price. They can also alert you to homes that tick most of your boxes but might not have appeared in your initial searches.
2. Sort Out Your Finances Early
Before you fall in love with a property, you need to know exactly what you can afford. Schedule a meeting with an independent financial adviser who specialises in mortgages. They’ll help you understand:
- How much you can realistically borrow
- Which mortgage products suit your circumstances
- What insurance policies you’ll need
- How to improve your chances of mortgage approval
Having a mortgage agreement in principle before you start seriously house hunting puts you in a stronger position when making offers.
3. Choose Your Conveyancing Solicitor
Finding the right solicitor is crucial for a smooth property purchase. Don’t wait until you’ve had an offer accepted to start this process. Research and instruct a conveyancing solicitor early, ideally one who comes recommended by friends, family, or your estate agent.
Your solicitor will handle all the legal aspects of your purchase, including searches, contracts, and the transfer of funds. Having them ready to go means you can move quickly when you find the right property, which could make the difference in a competitive market.
Preparing for the Move
4. Start Packing Strategically
It might seem premature to pack before you’ve found a property, but starting early has several advantages. Begin with items you rarely use: seasonal decorations, books, spare bedding, and items stored in your loft or garage.
This is also the perfect opportunity to declutter. Moving costs are often based on volume, so reducing what you take can save money. Consider these options for items you no longer need:
- Sell valuable items through Facebook Marketplace or eBay
- Donate to local charity shops
- Use Freecycle for items others might want
- Contact auction houses for potentially valuable pieces
- Arrange collection through home clearance services
Label boxes clearly with their contents and intended room. This will make unpacking much easier when you reach your new home.
5. Get Removal Quotes
Once you have an accepted offer and a completion date, it’s time to book your removal company. Always get at least three quotes from different companies. Look for:
- Companies with good reviews and recommendations
- Full insurance coverage for your belongings
- Clear pricing with no hidden extras
- Flexibility in case your completion date changes
Book your chosen company as soon as possible, especially if you’re moving on a Friday or at the end of the month when removal services are in high demand.
6. Resist the Urge to Plan Everything
While it’s tempting to plan every detail of your new home’s interior, experienced homeowners recommend waiting. Living in a space for different seasons helps you understand:
- How natural light changes throughout the year
- Which rooms get cold in winter or hot in summer
- How you actually use different spaces
- What storage solutions you really need
Save major renovation projects for after you’ve lived in the property for about 12 months. This patience often leads to better decisions and prevents costly mistakes.
Administrative Tasks
7. Update Your Details
Create a checklist of all the organisations that need your new address:
- Banks and credit card companies
- Utility providers (gas, electricity, water)
- Internet and phone providers
- Insurance companies (car, contents, life)
- Your employer’s HR department
- DVLA for driving licence and vehicle registration
- Electoral roll
- Doctor, dentist, and other healthcare providers
- Subscription services and online shopping accounts
Start this process as soon as you have a completion date. Many organisations allow you to set a future date for the change of address.
8. Arrange Building Insurance
Building insurance must be in place from the day you exchange contracts, as you become legally responsible for the property from this point. Start getting quotes well in advance, comparing:
- Coverage levels
- Excess amounts
- Additional protections (like accidental damage)
- Combined building and contents policies
Your mortgage lender will require proof of adequate building insurance, so don’t leave this to the last minute.
Moving Day Preparation
9. Pack an Essentials Box
The day before your move, prepare a clearly marked “first day” box containing:
- Kettle, mugs, tea, coffee, and milk
- Toilet paper and hand soap
- Phone chargers
- Basic toiletries
- Snacks and easy meals
- Cleaning supplies
- Torch and batteries
- Basic tools (screwdriver, hammer)
- Bed sheets and towels
- First aid kit
This box should travel with you rather than in the removal van, ensuring you have immediate access to necessities.
10. Keep Valuables With You
On moving day, carry these essential items personally:
- Important documents (mortgage papers, insurance documents, contracts)
- Passports and identification
- Cash and payment cards
- Prescription medications
- Glasses or contact lenses
- Keys for both properties
- Jewellery and small valuables
- Mobile phones and chargers
- Children’s favourite toys or comfort items
- Pet essentials if applicable
Making Moving Day Run Smoothly
Beyond the checklist items, here are additional tips for a successful moving day:
Prepare your old property: Clean as you go, take final meter readings, and leave behind any instruction manuals or warranties for appliances you’re leaving.
Communicate clearly: Exchange mobile numbers with your solicitor, estate agent, and removal company. Keep everyone updated if there are any delays.
Do a final check: Walk through every room, cupboard, and storage space before leaving. Check the garden shed and garage too.
Be flexible: Moving days rarely go exactly to plan. Build in extra time and be prepared for delays.
Take photos: Document the condition of both properties on moving day for reference.
After the Move
Once you’re in your new home:
- Locate the stopcock, fuse box, and meters
- Test all appliances and heating systems
- Change the locks for security
- Introduce yourself to neighbours
- Register with local services (doctors, schools, etc.)
- Update your home insurance to contents cover
Getting Professional Help
Moving house, especially for the first time, involves many complex steps. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. Estate agents, solicitors, and financial advisers are there to guide you through the process.
If you have any questions about buying your first home or need assistance with any aspect of the moving process, professional help is available. Contact us at [email protected] or call 01942 233999 for expert guidance tailored to your situation.
Final Thoughts
Moving into your first home is a significant achievement. While the process can seem daunting, breaking it down into manageable steps makes it much less stressful. Start early, stay organised, and don’t be afraid to ask questions along the way.
Remember, thousands of people successfully buy their first home every year. With proper preparation and the right support, you’ll soon be settling into your new property and creating memories in a space that’s truly your own.