Seven Tips to Prepare Your New Home for Moving Into

There are many different ways to move. Some people move in an incredibly stressful and rushed way as they scramble to get out of the old home and into the new one while others move at a more leisurely pace, arranging everything carefully as they go. If you have the time and opportunity, one of the best things you can do to simplify your entire moving process is to prepare the destination.

Most people spend the vast majority of their moving time worrying about the place they're leaving. While this makes sense as you have to pack and wipe away any signs of your presence, the place you're moving to is equally important. While you might think that an empty home with a fresh lease or deed is ready to be moved into, remember that the place could easily have been sitting empty for weeks, if not months, meaning that it may not be in the best possible condition to receive all your possessions without a little preparation.

1. Arrive Early, Bring Cleaning Supplies

Whether the home has been standing empty or the last tenant simply didn't do a perfect job cleaning on their way out, you can't actually count on your new home to be spotless, dust-free, and ready. If this is a local move, pack up your best cleaning supplies early and drive it over to give the place a thorough once-over.

You'll Need

• Vacuum Cleaner
• Broom, Mop, and Bucket
• Paper Towels
• All-Surface Cleaner
• Sponges
• Heavy-Duty Cleaner
• Duster

You May Also Want

• Coffee Pot
• Coffee, Milk, and Sugar
• Heat-Resistant Cups or Mugs

2. Air It Out, then Fire Up the Thermostat

The first thing to consider is the air quality. How long has the place been closed up? How much dust has gathered and settled in the stale, unmoving air? Your first task, even if it's the middle of winter, is to open up the doors and windows and air out the house for a few minutes. When you've had all the cold breezes you can stand, close everything back up completely and fire up the thermostat. This ensures that your home will both be nice to breathe in and comfortable to work in when the movers arrive.

3. Dare the Dust to Reveal Itself

Now that you've moved the air around, there should be a reasonable amount of dust moving through your home, especially as the vents start coughing back to life. Grab a duster or an old towel that can scare dust up off of surfaces and out of corners and go to town. This will give it a chance to filter through the vents, and re-settle without causing big sneeze-inducing puffs later on and will make your future cleaning easier.

4. Vacuum, Sweep, and Mop

Next, let's take a look at the floors. These are often what suffers most when a house is vacant, along with the window sills where trapped bugs go to die. Vacuum everything, including the hard floors all the way to the corners, then sweep and mop for good measure to ensure that there's nothing unknown and lingering from previous occupants.

5. Sanitizing the Kitchen and Bathrooms

When you're done moving, it's likely that you will be too tired from moving boxes and directing activity to think much about how clean the kitchen and bathroom are, but you have a moment now. Because you have no idea how well they were cleaned before you become the resident, we suggest you use a heavy-duty cleaner on all kitchen and bathroom surfaces, including the underside of the faucet where the water comes out. With a quick clean and polish, you can be sure that your food prep and personal care will be sanitary later on.

6. Throwing Down Floor Protectors

Especially if you're moving in an icy winter environment, the last thing you want in your new home is the constant tromp of ice-covered boots on your carpets and hardwood floors. Throw down some tarps or old towels to make sure the floors of your new home are safe from the rigors of moving. You may also want to wrap corners and banisters if you have a lot of large furniture to move.

7. Make a Pot of Coffee

Finally, moving is hard work, particularly in the winter, and hydration is key. If you want to keep your movers warm and show that they are appreciated, make a hot pot of coffee, a pitcher of filtered water, and enough cups for everyone. This will help both you and the movers stay toasty and hydrated during the long process of getting your things in and out of the moving truck, re-assembled, and placed in all the right rooms.

The process of moving is complicated and there are many aspects to consider. Even if you have everything planned, it's important to make sure that your destination is as ready for the move as you and the boxes are. With these simple preparation steps, you should be able to arrange the most comfortable and convenient of possible moves.

If you're ready to move into a new home, but don't know where or how to get started, we're here to help! Visit us online to get started.