Moving tips: Home preparations to tackle before moving in

Before a homeowner can fully settle into a new home, there are several crucial preparations that should be tackled ahead of the moving day. From ensuring that the space is clean and functional to taking steps to enhance security and comfort, these preparations can make all the difference to the potential enjoyment of the new home.

"There is so much to consider when moving homes that it can be easy to focus on the logistics of the move and simply overlook the factors that can have a big impact on how comfortable you will be in the space after your furniture arrives," says Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa.

"Certain installations will be far more difficult to do once everything has been moved into the home, so it is often better to have the space freshly prepared and organised before you start placing furniture and unpacking boxes," he suggests.

One of the first things Goslett recommends doing before getting settled in the new space is to paint the rooms that need it. "Painting is a great way for homeowners to add their personal touch and give the home an updated, refreshed look. It is far less physically challenging to paint the interior of a home if there is no furniture in it. Moving furniture around or covering it takes time that could be spent on the actual painting," he notes.

Next, and possibly more important is to make sure the home is secure before you move all your belongings into it. If there aren't security features installed already, Goslett recommends arranging the various installations before the rest of your belongs arrive. If you're signing up a new contract with an armed response team, make sure they come to set everything up before the chaos of moving trucks and deliveries start flooding in.  

Internet connectivity is the next things that Goslett advises homeowners to get set up before the move date - especially if fibre needs to be installed. "It can be very useful to have a stable internet connection as soon as you move in - especially if you rely on streaming services for your entertainment. After a long day of moving furniture and unpacking boxes, it can be a welcome relief to just put your feet up and stream something in your brand new living room," says Goslett.

Although it might not always be possible to allow yourself a day or two before the move-in date to see to these preparations, those who are able to arrange this will have a much smoother moving experience. If you have a move coming up, Goslett encourages you to chat to your real estate agent for some more tips. "As area experts, real estate agents can often refer reliable, local service providers who can help make for a smoother moving experience," he says.  

READ: Top 7 items that get damaged when moving and how to protect them

An article published on Property24 on May 25, 2022, features Ana Roberts of Just Property Upper Highway, who explains that another great benefit of downscaling is that small spaces require less furniture - a few great statement pieces allow for simple, minimalist décor and a beautiful, welcoming home at a fraction of the cost of furnishing a big house. And the cleaning is a breeze!

Less clutter equals less stress, and isn't that what we are all looking for now?

Tips for cosy-home hunting:

Location, location, location - You want to remain close to your family and friends, and have ease of access to stores and other amenities such as doctors, hospitals etc. Narrow your search to areas that tick these boxes.

What are your deal breakers? Does the home offer the main assets that are important to you, for example, a good kitchen, nice family space,  shower etc?

Current wants vs future needs - If you are downsizing because the children have moved out and you are getting older, consider a single story with the ease of access rather than a property with stairs that may cause a problem later.

Growing pains - Will you be able to handle the upkeep of a big garden, or is it time for something smaller that is more manageable? Will your pets cope with a smaller space; is there somewhere nearby where you could walk them?

Fit for purpose - Will your favourite furniture fit in the new space? Make a list of every piece with which you can't part. Take measurements. Then take a tape measure with you when you start narrowing down your list of potential new homes.

Storage war - Is there enough cupboard space in the bedrooms and the kitchen? Do you need outside storage too?

Peace of mind - Check the security features of each property you visit. Find out how safe the area is and what security is available. Ask the neighbours, chat to the local police, and phone a security company that focuses on the neighbourhood.

Guest appeal -  Consider how many bedrooms you will need going forward - if your kids have all moved out of home, you may only need one spare room for when they or your friends come to stay.

Paper trails - Remember to ask for compliance certificates, even those that aren't required in your province (for example, gas installations and solar geysers should come with a compliance certificate - if something goes wrong and you don't have one, your insurers may refuse to replace the geyser, or cover damage caused by a gas issue).

Complex questions - If you are moving into a complex or an apartment, be aware that there may be the added expense of levies, clubhouse fees and/or security. Ask about historical escalation rates and request a copy of the body corporate rules (if applicable.)

Ask your neighbours if there are any noise issues, does sound travel through the walls and ceiling? How old is the plumbing, the lifts etc - upgrading such items is very expensive and you'll have to contribute. What parking is available for guests?

Find out how much bond you qualify for with the Property24's easy-to-use calculator tools 

Home-Dzine shares the best tricks when moving out for the first-time

Whether you're moving out of your house with your roommates or with your partner, the need for landing on the necessary habits of better planning never dies.

Here is a list of things you should apply when you start living independently.

1. Bring changes to your lifestyle

Living in your parent's house is different, as there's no burden of responsibilities on your shoulders. But when you decide to live alone in your own home, a bunch of duties pops up. But don't worry; if you keep your lifestyle on track, there will be no milestone that you can't achieve.

2. Take a look of your finances

One of the most critical parts about leaving your house for the first time is to deal with your every-day increasing expenses. All you've to do is to plan and finance your future life. But the question that knocks out your head is how you're going to do all this? Make a budget to figure out your expenses. Buy everything ranging from your utility needs to furniture should be in your budget.

The best way is to note all your expenses for the month on a notepad and spend your money accordingly. Plus, keep water, petrol, and electricity in control as it also influences the budget.

3. Choose the best location

The choice of location for your future house will influence your troubles a lot. No doubt it's relatively easy to compromise with your needs, but still, you've to buy reliable real estate where all your needs are on your doorstep. 

4. Find yourself a permanent Job

Taking a brave decision to move out of the house for the first time isn't appropriate unless you have a steady job pushing you up financially. As you're going to face millions of problems economically and emotionally, only a permanent job resolves all your matters. It's the best advice to have a steady job before move out of the house.

5. Always have a plan B

Not everyone who's moving out of the house is the one who gives a potential setback to the upcoming problems. There're chances that you may get fail in building yourself up. But don't bother about it much; having a plan B when moving out of college is the only thing you can do to save your living.

6. Go for renters insurance

The unfortunate time comes without informing. Thus, the best way to push yourself up in such circumstances is to have renters insurance. Choose the policies which have low monthly payments or those that offer full replacement coverage.

Stand On Your Own

Shifting in your house by moving out for the first time seems like a daunting task. But you shouldn't get confused after reading the tips we've talked about above. Adopt them in your life and see your development in days.https://www.property24.com/articles/moving-tips-home-preparations-to-tackle-before-moving-in/31910