Moving out of home is probably the biggest change you will go through, other than getting married or having a baby. So here’s the ultimate moving-out guide you’ll need!
There’s a lot to look forward to, and it can be scary, too. But, on the other hand, there is nothing more grown-up than enjoying a glass of champagne in the comfort of your own apartment’s lounge.
Learning to cook for yourself and do your laundry are just some adjustments to living away from your parents. Take it from someone who has been flying solo since 16 (with much support from my parents). When leaving the nest, there are many things to consider, so we prepared this moving-out guide to help you get started.
From the process to moving out cleaning, we’ve got you covered!
Moving out guide #1: Choosing the right place
When it comes to looking for your perfect home, you’ll need to consider these factors:
- Choosing the right location is very important when it comes to moving out. In addition, you should consider the distance you’ll have to commute to and from work, the parking situation (if you drive), and the proximity of public transport.
- Does the place you are moving to suit your lifestyle? First, of course, you have to stay within your budget. For example, if you love the beach, you’re probably not happy living 25 kilometres away! You should also check out whether there are any good bars or restaurants in the area if you’re a social butterfly.
- Anyone who has ever lived with a dodgy housemate will tell you that the people you live with can make or break your living situation. Have you ever travelled together if you’re moving in with a friend or partner? From this, you’ll have a good idea of what it will be like to live together. Make sure you get to know your housemates before you move in, especially if they aren’t already friends. Their work schedules, lifestyles, and personalities may clash with yours. Will you live alone? You can do it if you’re someone who enjoys their own company.
Moving out guide #2: Money-related matters
You’ve found the house of your dreams, then? Congratulations! Putting yourself in the best financial position to move in is the next step. You should be prepared for all the moving costs to avoid nasty surprises. Rent isn’t the only expense you should plan for! Consider these things:
- Bond: Your landlord will ask you to provide a bond as a form of security. If you look after the property and pay rent on time, you will receive it back when you leave. It is the equivalent of about four weeks’ rent. It is where move-out cleaning is very important. Make sure to clean the space you’re moving out of thoroughly!
- One-time costs: Hire a removal van, and set up utilities like electricity, gas, and internet, all of which quickly add up.
- Expenses: You and your roommates must determine how to split the rent, utilities, and groceries. Is one person responsible for direct debits, or are all your expenses accounted for in one account?
After you’ve figured out where you’re moving and how much money you’ll need, it’s time to take action.
Once you’ve moved into your own space, here are some other moving-out guide bits and pieces to consider:
- You should notify anyone who will mail you about your new address, whether for bills or subscription services.
- Identify who will do what in your new house to avoid awkwardness or later arguments. Then, organise your housework with your housemates by making a chore chart!
- If you’re moving into a new place for the first time, you may need a spare set of keys until you become accustomed to your new locks. If you lock yourself out, it is a very expensive mistake, so having a spare set of keys is worth making. Please ensure they are with a trusted friend or family member, ideally someone close to you.
If you’re moving out of an old apartment, move-out cleaning is a must! Deep cleaning before moving out benefits both parties – especially if you have a security deposit. Moving out cleaning can, however, be neglected. Moving into a new home or apartment is a bigger concern! We hope our moving-out guide helped you out.
Urban Care offers flexible move-in and move-out cleaning services to ease the transition to your new home or apartment. Urban Care can help with any cleaning needs, whether the entire house or just certain items on your move-out checklist.
