Buying your first home in the UK is an exciting achievement, but moving can be stressful. Trying to get your things packed into boxes, utilities sorted, contracts signed, etc., is a daunting and complicated experience. But with the right preparation, you can move smoothly and easily.
So, here’s a step-by-step practical guide packed with the best moving tips specifically for first-time buyers in the UK.
Start Early and Stay Organised
Time is your best friend when it comes to moving home. Once your offer has been accepted, start planning. You can create a checklist with boxes to tick off, including:
- BOOK A REMOVALS COMPANY
- NOTIFY UTILITY PROVIDERS
- CHANGE OF ADDRESS WITH BANKS, DVLA & HMRC
- BOOK BROADBAND AND INSURANCE
A few apps can also help you manage your checklist and keep you accountable to tick off your tasks as you complete them.
Budget for Hidden Costs
When it comes to moving, it is not just about the house deposit. First-time buyers often forget or don’t realise the additional costs associated with the purchase. You will have to budget for:
- Solicitor fees
- Stamp Duty (if applicable)
- Surveying fees
- Moving fees
- Packing materials
Also, small businesses moving their team members should budget for the cost of temporary accommodation or the cost of equipment transport.
Declutter Before You Pack
Don’t move what you don’t need.
Go through your belongings room by room and donate, resale, or recycle any items that you no longer use. If you are a business, this is also a good time to spring clean digitally and on the physical side, get rid of out-dated paperwork in a shredder, and update any obsolete technology.
This way, you can lower the burden of moving and save time, effort, and money on moving day.
Label Everything Clearly
As you are packing, be sure to label each box with the contents and the room it is destined for. This way unpacking will be much simpler and quicker.
Color-coding labels or stickers also assist your organisation, especially when you are coordinating your move for many others or departments within a small business.
Bonus tip: Pack a “first-night” box with a kettle, chargers, personal hygiene, snacks, and blankets.
Hire a Trusted Removals Company
Don’t entrust your valuable items to just anyone. Find a reputable UK removals company with good reviews, recent reviews, transparent pricing, and experience with buyers in their first property.
The professionals at a removals company will help reduce stress and handle everything professionally.
For businesses, it is best to choose movers who also provide commercial relocation services and have the flexibility to relocate after business hours and on the weekend to minimise business disruption.
Why Choose Removals.co.uk?
Removals.co.uk has established itself as one of the UK’s top moving specialists. We offer trusted, reliable, and affordable removals services for everyone, whether you are moving into your first home as a first-time buyer or you are a business owner helping your staff relocates with a complimentary moving service.
Removals.co.uk offers:
- Tailored moving packages
- Packing and unpacking on a full-service
- Local, long-distance, and international moves
With our wide network and reliable customer support team, you can be sure that your move is managed by experts in the industry.