When preparing for a move, so much of the focus is on the packing. It doesn’t matter how big or small your move is; getting to the point where all your stuff is packed, on a moving truck, and getting into your new home is a process that takes work. Today I want to focus on the first days and weeks after moving. Setting yourself up for success during those early days is key so that you can focus on unpacking and organizing after. Here are some tips to help make those first days in your new home a breeze.

Hire a Cleaning Service

When the old owners or tenants move out of your new home, just the process of moving out will stir up a lot of dust and dirt. It’s a good idea to give your new space a thorough clean before you unpack your belongings. Hiring a cleaning service is a great way to save yourself time when your already busy packing. You can of course do it yourself; make sure you clean and disinfect all the rooms in your house, bleach the bathroom, wipe down all the cabinets, drawers, and shelves. Your floors may need a few cleans after all the people in your house during moving day, and especially if you did any work to the house before moving in.

Prepare an Essentials Bag

Whether you're fully moved into your new house or not, you should have the essentials to take a shower, cook a meal, and get a decent night’s sleep for the first few nights. Remember to keep your must-haves in separately marked boxes, suitcases,or bags to take with you personally so that they don’t get lost in the chaos ofthe move. Check out our moving essentials list here.

Take a Few Days Off

While not always possible, it’s a good idea to take a few days off work post-move so that you can settle into your new space. You’ll need time to unpack the essentials and get yourself to a point of comfort before getting back into your day-to-day routine. Remember, everything in your new home starts from scratch so you’ll need time to set things up to get to your basic comfort level.

Consider a Moving Service for Large Items

Most people are using moving services these days, but if you’re considering moving yourself, I wanted to point out why a moving service is so crucial for your larger items. They’ll take apart and remake your bed, couch, and any large furniture. Having a bed built for you at the end of moving day is a major step towards feeling comfortable in your new space.

Inspect Delivered Items

This one may sound like common sense, but make sure you inspect anything delivered by a moving company. Check that everything is in good shape, and that you received all the boxes. If you get any damaged goods or missing boxes, report to the moving company right away.

Turn On the HVAC System

As soon as you get the keys to your new home, make sure you turn on the heating and cooling systems to ensure they’re working properly. This will help you avoid any uncomfortable surprises on the first night in your new home. If there are any issues with the system, notify your landlord or call in a professional to inspect and repair it.

Locate Shut Off Points

There are several cut-off points for water, gas, and electricity in your home so make sure you know them well. Your utility companies pump these utilities into your home and the shut off valves and circuit breaker can control the flow of them throughout your home. You’ll want to know where the main shut-off valves for gas and water coming into your house are, as well as local shut off valves, like the water valves below your kitchen sink. Knowing where these valves are can help you quickly address a leaking sink or broken pipe before it causes more damage. For your electricity, locate the circuit breaker so that you can safely perform electrical work or restore power after an overload.

Secure Your Home

You can’t survive the first week in your new home without securing it. If you own your home change the locks on the outside doors so that you’re certain only your family has access. After you take care of the locks, you can also set up a home security system. If you have a baby or toddler, make sure the new home is childproofed.

The days after moving can be a stressful time but I want to remind you that it’s also a major accomplishment to get to that point. Now that you’re in your new home you can start getting back to your regular day to day life. I hope these tips have helped set you up for success post-moving into your new home to help get you to your new normal quickly. If you have any questions about planning your next move, I’m always only a call, text or e-mail away.

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