Published: January 01, 2024

First-Time Homebuyer’s Moving Guide

Moving into your first home is an exciting and monumental milestone in life. Whether you’re upgrading from an apartment, relocating to a new city, or simply seeking a change of scenery, the process can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. To ensure a smooth transition, it’s essential to create a moving checklist that covers all the necessary steps. As a first-time homebuyer, this checklist will help you stay organized and reduce stress during this significant life change.

Months Before the Move

Set a Budget: Determine your moving budget, including expenses for packing materials, moving services, and any unforeseen costs.

Create a Timeline: Establish a moving timeline, starting at least two to three months before the move. This will allow you ample time to plan and make necessary arrangements.

Use Portable Storage: If you have the budget for it, consider renting portable storage containers from UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Seattle. Make sure to book ahead of time to ensure you get your preferred moving date and time.

Sort and Declutter: Begin decluttering your current space by sorting through your belongings. Donate, sell, or dispose of items you no longer need.

Collect Packing Supplies: Start gathering packing materials such as boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and packing paper. You can purchase these items or ask local stores for free boxes.

One Month Before the Move

Notify Service Providers: Inform your current utility providers, including electricity, water, internet, and cable, of your move-out date. Set up services for your new home.

Change Your Address: Update your address with the post office, banks, credit card companies, and any other essential institutions.

Pack Non-Essentials: Begin packing items you won’t need in the weeks leading up to the move, such as seasonal clothing and rarely used kitchen appliances.

Label Your Boxes: Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. This will make unpacking much more efficient.

Two Weeks Before the Move

Finalize Packing: Finish packing your belongings, leaving only essential items for the final days in your current home.

Confirm Moving Details: Reconfirm the moving date and time with your chosen moving services.

Prepare an Essentials Box: Pack a box with essentials you’ll need for the first few days in your new home, including toiletries, a change of clothes, and important documents.

Notify Friends and Family: Inform friends and family of your new address and moving date.

The Week of the Move

Clean Your Current Home: Do a final cleaning of your current residence before moving out.

Disassemble Furniture: Take apart any furniture that needs to be disassembled for the move.

Confirm Address and Directions: Ensure that you have the correct address and directions to your new home.

Moving Day

Inspect Your Home: Before leaving, walk through your current home to make sure you haven’t left anything behind.

Lock up: Double-check that all doors and windows are locked before leaving your old home.

First Impressions: When you arrive at your new home, take some time to inspect it and familiarize yourself with its layout.

After the Move

Unpack Essentials Box: Begin by unpacking your essentials box, and gradually work your way through the rest of your belongings.

Update Your Address: Update your address with the DMV, voter registration, and any other organizations that require your current address.

Explore Your New Neighborhood: Get to know your new neighborhood by exploring local shops, restaurants, and parks.

Meet Your Neighbors: Take the opportunity to introduce yourself to your new neighbors and build a sense of community.

Enjoy Your New Home: Finally, take a moment to celebrate your achievement and enjoy your new home!

Moving into your first home is an exciting adventure. By following this comprehensive checklist, you can minimize stress and ensure a smooth transition into your new space. Remember, the key to a successful move is careful planning and organization. Happy moving!

Need help moving? Visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Seattle or call (206) 347-8201.