Congratulations on purchasing your first home! After home shopping, negotiations, and paperwork, it’s finally time to move in! Buying a home is a journey in itself, but planning a first-time homebuyer move can also feel like a juggling act. In this home buying and moving guide, we’re sharing tips for new homeowners to make moving in more manageable and organized. Let’s dive in!
1. Create a Moving Timeline
The whole home buying experience can feel like a whirlwind. But closing is the start of another beginning! As soon as you close on your new home, the next step is to set your moving timeline. A good plan is the foundation of an efficient move, and even if moving day feels far off, starting early can save you time and stress.
- Tasks to add to your timeline checklist:
- Decide whether hiring a professional mover or a DIY move is best for you.
- Research and book professional movers or reserve a rental truck.
- Set dates for starting the packing process.
- Schedule connections for utilities such as electricity, gas, water, and internet.
- Organize appointments for changing your address with USPS, banks, and subscriptions.
It’s not always easy to know where to start, so we’ve created this free downloadable moving checklist as part of this homebuying and moving guide.
By mapping out each step in your timeline, you can make sure you’ve covered all the details, keep last-minute changes to a minimum, and make your first-time homebuyer move much less complicated.
2. Budgeting for the Move: Tips for New Homeowners
Budgeting is a big part of your move. Even if you’re a do-it-yourself kind of person, costs like boxes, bubble wrap, and other moving supplies can really add up!
If you’re hiring a mover, always make sure to check their reviews and be cautious of moving brokers! These companies often promise rock-bottom prices but add on extra charges and hidden fees.
- Identify hidden moving costs:
Don’t forget to budget for costs like rentals, fuel, travel expenses, and packing materials if you’re arranging a DIY move. These expenses often catch first-timers off guard. - Cost comparison:
Important tip in this homebuyer and moving guide: Evaluate the benefits of hiring professional movers versus coordinating the move on your own. For many people the cost of hiring a professional mover is offset by the efficiency, reduced physical stress, and additional services they offer. Even if you’re considering a DIY approach to your first-time homebuyer move, getting a free estimate might end up saving you time and money in the long-run! - Tips to save money during a first-time homebuyer move:
- Get quotes from multiple movers.
- Purchase supplies in bulk or look for online discounts.
- If you’re handling the move on your own, consider borrowing items like moving blankets or dollies from friends or family.
By having a clear picture of the costs and time required, you can have a move tailored to meet your needs without getting caught off guard by “extras.” Here at Central, we make sure you’re always aware of charges — no hidden fees, ever!
3. Organize and Declutter Before the Move
Moving is the perfect time to downsize and declutter your belongings so that you can start fresh in your new home. Tip number three in this homebuying and moving guide is to streamline your belongings before the move.
- Downsize and declutter:
Embrace this opportunity to declutter. Ask yourself whether you need each item (Will you need that extra snow shovel at your new Florida home?). This way you’re not transporting unwanted items and have room to grow in your new location. - Tips for new homeowners:
- Create three boxes: Donate, Sell, Toss.
- Ask yourself: “When was the last time I used this?”
- Organize items by room to simplify unpacking.
This organizing process not only lightens the load during your first-time homeowner move but also sets you up for a more organized home as you settle into your new space.
4. Pack Like a Pro
With your moving plan in place, it’s time to start everyone’s favorite part of moving — packing. Just kidding, of course! We love packing, but a lot of people find this process overwhelming. Still, no homebuying and moving guide would be complete without mentioning the importance of packing well. Here are some tips to help you pack like a pro:
- Use labeling systems and room-by-room strategy:
Assign each box to a specific room. Use labels with both the room name and a list of contents to simplify the unpacking process. You can even color code to make unpacking easier! - Protect fragile items:
- Wrap items in bubble wrap or soft materials.
- Clearly mark boxes containing fragile goods.
- Create an essentials box with items you’ll need on the first night (toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents).
Tips for new homeowners: Hiring a professional mover vs. buying supplies
Find out whether the cost of hiring a mover offsets purchasing your own supplies. A lot of people are surprised by how quickly the costs of packing materials and time add up! Getting a free quote can help you make the most of your budget when planning your first-time homebuyer move.
5. Plan Ahead To Set Up the Essentials
Imagine this: You’ve had a long moving day, and you’ve just arrived home. You open the door, and flip on the lightswitch… but nothing happens. The next tip in this homebuying and moving guide is to set up essential services (like electricity, water, and gas) at your new home before you arrive. Don’t forget to:
- Fill out change of address and notifications:
Make sure to update your mailing address with the USPS, banks, and subscription services. This prevents disruptions in communication and ensures you don’t miss important documents. - Schedule utilities:
Arrange for internet, electricity, water, and trash services to be activated before you move in. This is one of the tips for new homeowners that can make your first days at home MUCH more comfortable. - Have necessities ready for your first night:
Keep a box with essentials like bedding, toiletries, snacks, and a few cooking items handy. This simple step saves you from the hassle of searching for things amid a sea of packed boxes.
Tips for New Homeowners To Streamline the Process
A first-time homebuyer move can feel overwhelming. But with some preparation, a solid plan, and a great moving partner by your side, you can sidestep the chaos. We hope you’ve found this homebuying and moving guide helpful! Here at Central Transportation Systems, we’re here to help you have a great moving experience — so you can start this new adventure off on the right foot. Happy moving, and welcome home!
