When moving house, there’s a lot to think about – and that doesn’t just mean unpacking all your belongings. Before you start to invite friends and family over, it’s important to get homeownership off to a good start.
We take a look at three things to tick off your list once you’ve moved into your potential forever home.
Give the house a once-over
Before doing anything else, make sure that the house is in order and everything is how it should be. Pay close attention to any faults that weren’t meant to be there or if things have been taken that were in the contract.
If repairs were agreed beforehand, ensure these have been carried out and to an acceptable standard. Any issues should be reported immediately to your estate agent. However, do note that any problems not covered in the contract are your responsibility now.
If you’re moving into a new build property, it’s unlikely that there will be any issues. Still, you should perform the necessary due diligence and flag any concerns to your developer. You’ll often have a warranty in place for major problems anyway.
Change your details
When changing address, there are various other details that will need to change as well. For example, you’ll need to update your workplace, private pension company, HMRC, insurance companies, and the DVLA of your new address.
You should have already taken care of your utilities but it’s best to check that these are now updated also – and that they all work properly in the property. It’s a good idea to consult other energy suppliers as there’s no obligation to stay with your current one and you may find a better deal elsewhere.
It’s also worthwhile notifying your TV licensing company of the new address as well as the date you plan to move in. Doing so ensures coverage from the moment you move in. And don’t forget to find out when bin day is.
Meet the neighbours
Saying hi to your new neighbours is a lot easier when you’ve just moved in. Take advantage of the opportunity and introduce yourself. This is crucial for learning about those in the community and getting recommendations for local services.
You don’t need to go from door to door but do make a habit of familiarising yourself with a new neighbour the first time you run into them. Friendliness can go a long way, especially if you need a favour. You never know, you may run out of milk or need someone to water your plants while you’re away.
Managing bureaucracy
In addition to these essential steps, if you’re considering an international move, such as moving to France from the UK, there are additional factors to consider. This includes understanding international moving regulations, managing customs and immigration requirements. Moving internationally can be a complex process, and it’s important to be well-prepared for the unique challenges it presents.
Luciana joined our team as a mum blogger in 2020. A dedicated mum to a lively daughter and a dog, Luna, Luciana brings authenticity and passion to every post. Her expertise in parenting and lifestyle topics offers practical, relatable advice for real-life situations.