Moving into your new home? Follow these simple steps

The thought of moving into one's dream home are often too rosy, but the actual process of shifting can be highly stressful. To avoid last minute panic, stay organised and pace your preparations across a few weeks.

The following comprehensive tips are designed to help you cope with the entire process of shifting. It starts from the moment you decide to shift till you are settled in your new home.

Four to six weeks before moving into your dream home
Your offer has been accepted and your dream home is now a reality. You are left with some more quality time before you move into your new home. This gives you the time to compare quotes and reviews as well as select your conveyance solicitor. This ensures that any legal issues associated with the property transaction are dealt with smoothly.

Speak to your solicitor about exchanging contracts and finalize the date that you intend to shift. It is also worth taking some time to research the facilities and amenities provided in the area of your new home and get accustomed with them. You can also research about the area for information about local news and facilities that can be availed.

Begin researching about moving companies and try getting estimates. Choose wisely, confirm and sign the contract. If you are doing the packing, obtain boxes and other packing materials from your mover, or a moving supply or discount store.

A month before you move into your new home
Keep records of all your moving expenses; in some cases, they can be used to avail tax exemptions on your income tax. Call your insurance company to get your new home insured and cancel the policy on your existing home, if any, on the day you move to your new home. Get valuable possessions assessed for insurance and check if your insurance policy will cover your shift. If not, your removals company should be able to provide cover; get it early to avoid any complications that may arise later. Notify relevant utility companies in advance and switch home insurance to your new home.

A week before the D-day
Finalise details with the removal company – confirm times regarding shifting and moving in, get emergency numbers, enquire about parking facilities and directions to the new home. Book a different agency or go with known people to carry out services in case your removal company is not providing them. This includes services like house cleaning, dismantling of furniture, plumbing and electrical work. Cancel local services like cable TV, newspaper, milk etc. that you have subscribed to and settle all their outstanding bills.

The D-Day
On a day when emotions can run high, it is important to have a plan and know what you need to do to ensure a smooth shift. Be ready when your removal company arrives so that they can begin their work promptly. Identify whether any boxes need special care or are not to be taken by them and keep them separately. Make sure that the water and electricity meter readings are taken before you shift from your old house so that you can provide it to your providers. Upon arrival at your new home, it is important to make your removal company aware of any special instructions that you have for them. By marking boxes meant for each room you can direct them to be taken to that particular room. You should ensure that everything on your inventory list is accounted for before your moving company leaves. It's now time to move to your new home and congratulate yourself on making it through the day!