6 Steps to a Successful Move-In
You’ve bought a house…now what? Before the movers arrive at the house and you start ripping the boxes open, here are six steps to make your move-in successful and stress-free.
Spic and Span – If you can, book a cleaning day ahead of the arrival of your boxes. The best way to get a fresh start is to clean your new home thoroughly, preferably while your house is still empty for easier access to floors, baseboards, and window panes. Continue cleaning the cupboards, countertops, fridge, stove and microwave. Don’t forget to set enough time aside to scour the bathrooms from top to bottom. If you are dreading these tasks, perhaps a cleaning service may be a good option. The Faris Team has a list of preferred vendors we recommend to our clients
Stock Up – Everyone gets hungry on moving day so make sure you’re prepared. Shopping for supplies in advance will give you an opportunity to check out your local shops and markets. It’s best to fill the fridge with snacks that don’t require a lot preparation like cold cuts, cheese trays, and fruit and veggie trays. People also get thirsty on moving day, so don’t forget to stock up on drinks. Come prepared with paper plates, napkins and cutlery so you won’t have to do dishes. One crucial detail that is often forgotten is to put toilet paper in all the bathrooms.
Take Inventory – When the moving truck is empty, it’s time to take a quick inventory. You’ll want to make sure that everything has arrived safely and nothing has been left behind. Labelling your boxes properly in advance is very important. (Check out our blog on packing for a move: https://www.faristeam.ca/6-ways-make-move-easier/). It allows movers or family and friends to take your boxes to their designated rooms. Remember to take a look inside the boxes that contain your most breakable items first to ensure that they are not damaged.
Unpack in Stages – The key to unpacking effectively is to organize as you go. Don’t unpack everything at once or you may get frustrated and confused. At the beginning, only unpack what is essential to your everyday life such as towels, dishes, linens, and toiletries. Take out whatever it is that you feel you will need immediately. For most people a coffee maker is at the top of the necessities list. After that, tackle one room at a time, starting with the kitchen and ending with the basement, garage, and storage areas. Take your time and don’t forget to take breaks.
Cover the Windows – Many homes will come with window treatments, but in cases where some blinds and curtains were not included in the sale of the home, it’s important that you take steps to ensure those windows are covered by the time night falls in your new neighbourhood. You may not be a fan of the existing window treatments, but it’s unreasonable to think that you will have time to install something new that suits your style right away. If all else fails, tacking up an old bed sheet should do the trick. Hardware stores also sell temporary paper blinds that are inexpensive and easy to put up.
Get Some Shut Eye – Now it’s time to relax. You have had a hard day unpacking and trying to adjust to a new environment. The best thing to do now is get a good sleep. Then when you wake up, you can brew a fresh cup of coffee and start all over again.
Welcome home.