This is the last in my series about moving and buying another house with your spouse.
Before you sign a contract, check how far it is to schools, shopping, doctors and transport facilities. Check out how long it will take you and your spouse to get to work and to church.
After you have found a house and area you like, come back a few times at night at varying times of the day to scope out the neighborhood and make sure all is quiet. If you know people in that area talk to them about how they find things.
Even if your spouse has checked the house out thoroughly, get a building and pest inspection on the property you are interest in. They are worth the relatively inexpensive cost for peace of mind or alerting to what could be major problems.
Try taps for pressure and hot water. Someone I know bought a house and after they moved in found the hot water service was busted. This was an expensive replacement to face after just buying a house. Another found the stove didn’t work, so make sure of that too.
Make sure curtains dishwasher, blinds and other inclusions are all itemized on the contract.
Cull possessions during packing time if you haven’t already done so.
Pack, making sure to label each box with the room it belongs in and a number on the box. In a small book keep a detailed list of what each box contains rather than putting all the contents on the outside of the box, as things have been known to go missing that way. Someone I know list a whole heap of children’s Lego and another of Matchbox cars that way. The book will stay in your handbag till you move in.
Remember to get electricity, gas and phone etc turned off or a reading s done before you leave. The new buyers will get them reconnected.
Change credit card, shop reward points, health insurance, bank details, any wine clubs or other clubs you belong to, etc and get them redirected to the new house. Keep a checklist as you think of people that need to be notified of the changes. Mick and I have moved a number of times but last time forgot little ones like rewards points and clubs.
On moving day, if small children can be babysat for the day that is helpful instead of having them underfoot.
Do a last minute check of house, closets, yard, shed and garage to make sure nothing has been forgotten in the rush.
Before we left the house, I always left a small vase of flowers and a note to the new owners wishing them happiness in their new home.
Pack a small box to take with you which contains tea, coffee sugar, milk and biscuits or snacks.
Celebrate with your spouse buying your new home. Enjoy your move!
Related blogs