No one who has ever moved will tell you that it is easy. Regardless of whether you are moving down the street or across the world, it is a stressful and emotional experience. However, the process is a critical step in embracing the next chapter of life, regardless of what that may be. Make your transition into a new home or apartment a much smoother process.
Don’t procrastinate about unpacking
Sure, you’ll be exhausted right after you move, but the quicker you get those boxes unpacked the better. Arrange your furniture appropriately rather than simply placing it in the room it will stay in, and try different layouts to see which you prefer. It’s critical that you’re happy with how your old furniture looks in your new place, as this will help you feel settled. Unpack every box, as living out of boxes will make you feel like you are in transition and this is not your real home.
Really, unpack it all
You may think that things like artwork and ornamental gifts from friends and photos are the least important and can be left in boxes for several weeks, but actually they are important too. It’s these little items that make a house feel like a home, and they are items you associate with being at home, so get that art on the walls and your photos on display.
Don’t forget to do your paperwork
Obviously your mind will be on a hundred different things, but something you need to remember to update your details with relevant service providers such as your bank, insurance provider, and all of your utilities – and friends and family, so that they know where to send the “congrats on your new home” cards. This can usually be done before you actually move, leaving you more relaxed on the other side.
Spend plenty of time in your new home
You need to fully acquaint yourself with each and every room in your home. Spend plenty of time in all of them and work out where your favorite areas are at different times of the day. You may be surprised by how much sunshine the spare bedroom receives in the morning, or how beautiful the sunset is from your living room. Take the time to explore where light switches are located and the electrical panel too, as trying to find these at night can be a pain.
But remember to explore the area, too
Don’t spend all of your time inside! Make sure you explore the area. Find your local coffee shop, your local grocer, a park, and different routes for a fifteen or twenty minute walk around your neighborhood that you can do in the morning or evening. You may even start to meet and greet your neighbors this way, and it will have you feeling like a local in no time at all.
Kurt Jacobson* is a surfing enthusiast with a background in real estate. Having moved 10 times in the past seven years, he thrives on helping others learn from his experiences.*