Moving in together as a couple is a big step, one that can be very exciting but also requires some careful planning and coordination. Without the proper organization and communication between each other ahead of time, you will be in for a lot of unnecessary stress.
To start things off on the right note, follow these tips for moving in together. They will ensure that the move is as smooth and organized as possible so you can start enjoying your new place together right away.
Tips on Moving In Together for Couples
Go through all of your stuff and declutter
Like with any move, the first thing on your to-do list should be to declutter your items. This goes for both parties. Go through everything you have and get rid of whatever you no longer want or need. Not only will this save you time and money during the move, but the less stuff you both have, the easier it will be to combine it all at the new place.
Click here for tips on decluttering for a move.
Decide on what to combine
Once you have both narrowed down what you want to keep of your own items, it’s time to compare duplicates. This includes large items like furniture and small items like kitchen utensils. For example, whose sofa are you going to use? Or would you rather buy an entirely new one for the new place? Go through each room and decide what to keep and what you’ll need to purchase together. Whatever you don’t need, toss, donate, sell, or put into storage.
Be considerate
In some cases, it can be easy to look at the other person’s items and think that they don’t need to keep certain things. However, items that seem unnecessary to one person may hold a strong sentimental value to another. Keep this in mind when you are combining items. Clearly communicate with each other, be compassionate, and also be willing to compromise on some things.
Put a budget together
Another thing you’ll need to clearly communicate on is your budget. When you combine your living arrangement, you also combine finances, at least to a certain degree. This can include down payments or security deposits, utilities, and even moving fees. Make a list of all the costs that will be incurred from moving in together and put a budget together that you both agree on.
Label and inventory everything
Inventorying all of your items as you pack them is smart during any move and makes unpacking a lot easier. It will also help you in the process of combining your items. Be sure to label all your boxes, as well, not only according to each room but also to who it belongs to. You will avoid a lot of confusion and frustration when you are looking for something specific before you’ve fully unpacked.
Delegate and stay organized
Any move is a big undertaking, so two is an even bigger project. Stay organized with a timeline and checklists and be sure to delegate tasks. Being clear about who is in charge of what will make things run a lot smoother and help you avoid running into any instances of something not getting done because you both thought the other person was handling it.