When the time comes to start organising your next move here’s eight things you can do to help remove some of that stress and anxiety…

Make a start on working through our checklist and organise the things that you can get done now:

1. List all your possessions: Before you do anything it’s a great idea to get a thorough understanding of the scale of your move. You can download a free copy of our inventory here – this will give you a good place to start itemising all your belongings.
2. Get a floor plan of your new home: Decide which of your belongings are going with you by preparing a layout of how they will look in your new home. If your estate agent doesn’t have a floor plan, have a go at drawing one.
3. Declutter: Now that you have an inventory of all your possessions, and an idea of what’s going to the new house, take the opportunity to declutter. Then sell, donate or dump the things that you no longer have a need for in your busy life. We’ll be happy to provide a list of great local charities we have donated to, or if you have your own then share it with us.
4. Removal company or van hire quotes: Do you have lots of heavy or valuable items? Getting professional assistance will prove to be a great investment. For smaller items or a local move, then gather a group of your most reliable friends and consider hiring a van. Looking for a local recommendation, we’ll happily point you in the right direction.
5. Reserve self storage space: Downsizing your home and want to keep a few possessions? Maybe you’re looking for a temporary self storage because your move dates don’t match up? Self storage can be a cost effective solution, and reserving space in a local facility doesn’t have to cost anything?
6. Family: Don’t miss out on essential medication, or have your contact lenses sent to wrong address. Arrange transfer of doctors, dentists and opticians records.
7. Children: Do your homework… Find a new school. Notify your current school when the children will be leaving.
8. Pets: De-register your pet with the current vet and register with a new one. The RCVS have a database of vets near you.

We don’t believe moving house should be a stressful experience with careful planning. Make a checklist, work through your plan and you may also benefit from saving money as well. Adopt the right strategy – it’s the quickest way to a stress free house move, and if you have great ideas or suggestions please leave your comments below! Also, if you would like this as a downloadable checklist, let us know and we’ll create one.