Buying your home is an exciting time, and one of those moments that you’ll remember for the rest of your life! However, this excitement can very quickly turn into stress. There is a lot to consider when purchasing a property, whether you’re purchasing your first home, upsizing or downgrading, or if you are a seasoned mover. Using our guide can help you plan and make your move as smooth as possible.

Change of address

The admin updates aren’t the most glamorous of tasks, but luckily, they’re something that can be relatively quickly to do and most changes can be done online. There are a few companies you’ll need to contact to inform of your change in address including:

• DVLA.
• Post Office (to arrange for redirecting post).
• Bank.
• Insurance providers.
• Employer.
• School.
• Doctor.
• Dentist.
• Utility providers.
• Loyalty cards if you receive any physical vouchers.
• Any subscriptions you have such as grooming, magazines or snacks.

Prepare for moving

As soon as you know your moving date, it’s worth researching removal companies or speaking to friends and family to see if they can lend a hand. If you are looking to use a company look for good reviews and accreditation for that peace of mind that you and your belongings will be looked after properly.

If you have contents insurance, it’s worth checking with your provider to see if your belongings are covered whilst in transit to your new home.

Organising your internet connection sooner rather than later once you know your moving date is also wise as it can take a while to install. Some providers can use existing connections, so it’s best to find out which provider the previous owners used to make it an easier process. You don’t have to use the same provider but it can simplify the installation.

Remember, before buying furniture, measure the space to make sure that it will all fit in easily. Try to plan your furniture deliveries so that you don’t have everything arriving at the same time while you are trying to instruct the removal company or giving your new place a deep clean!

Once you’re in

Now that the hard part of moving is over there are a few maintenance checks that you might want to do:

• Make a note of the location of the main stopcock to turn off the water supply in case of an emergency.
• Find out who the current energy/gas/water providers are and consider if you want to change.
• Take energy readings and send these to your provider.
• Make a note of where the boiler and thermostat are.
• Find out what days the bins go out.

Your estate agent may already have this information, if not and you are unable to find out they may be able to ask the previous owner.

It’s also good to have a walk around the local area, and take a break from unpacking, to familiarise yourself with where the local amenities, schools and transport links are.

It may be nice to introduce yourself to your neighbours so you can find out anything you need to know about the local area.

Once you’re all moved in, you can now work on making your house a home! Having a good home insurance policy is key in keeping your new home covered should the unexpected happen.