The keys are in hand after weeks of anticipation, and it’s time to celebrate all the best bits about home ownership.
Of course, there might be some final tasks to finalise before you’re totally settled, so here’s some great suggestions to make your first weeks at home easy and, most importantly, fun!
Map everything out before move-in
Whether you own furniture or not, you’ll definitely find there are new items you’ll need for your new home. It’s fun and helpful to sketch out (or use an app like MagicPlan) all key areas like the kitchen and start planning where things will live as you go, and where you might need an extra item or two.
Consider everything from large furniture pieces (dining table, lounge and bed), to appliances (television, fridge, freezer and washing machines), basic necessities (storage shelves, linen, kitchen utensils and crockery) and soft furnishings (bedding, throws, window dressings). Even a shopping list for cleaning products can be exciting at this stage in the process!
Make a note of the priority items, so you can budget your spending.
Pack a “first week” survival kit
The reality of moving will probably involve pizza deliveries and takeaway coffees, but there are some essentials you won’t want to be without during the early days. A survival kit means you can enjoy a few simple comforts between hauling boxes. Don’t forget to include:
- Sheets and pillows for all those moving in
- Towels, soap and toilet paper
- A bag containing important medicines, first aid and toothbrushes
- A pot, a pan, a spatula, kettle, tea/coffee, mugs, a sharp knife, a dish towel and knives and forks
- A laptop / iPad / phone and chargers
- Scissors, spare light bulbs, an extension cord, a few basic tools (like Allen keys and screwdrivers) and bin bags
Make your connections
While this doesn’t exactly scream “fun”, establishing your water and power connections before you move in will result in plenty of pleasure on entry day, as you enjoy your gorgeous lighting and steaming shower/bath for the very first time.
Ensure your privacy (and avoid embarrassment)
Window furnishings give warmth and privacy to a home, and help you avoid an embarrassing first meeting with your new neighbours.
Shopping for and installing your curtains ASAP ensures a sound sleep and a private shower from day dot.
Play around!
It’s moving day! You may have a very clear idea of how things are to be set out, but trying different setups can be both fun and surprising. The natural light and the way you move through the rooms may mean the reality of your layout is a little different to what you imagined. It’s your space, so make it your own! We suggest starting with the bedrooms so that you have a comfortable and familiar place to flop at the end of a long day.
Make a statement
Your furnishings are in and things are starting to take shape. Do you need to inject a little more personality? Maybe a piece of art, a large mirror, a huge indoor plant or a feature wall? All can be inexpensive but have a big impact on the appearance of your home.
Start planting (or planning to plant)
Planting out a garden early will mean a more beautiful, established outdoor space sooner. Embrace your imagination – when it comes to gardens, your only limits are your ideas and your commitment to maintenance.
Get social
Your new neighbours can be a great source of local information, a wonderful help or maybe even your new best friends. Introducing yourself early makes your neighbours part of the adventure and gives you a great chance to really get to know them over a barbecue.
Throw a housewarming party
On the subject of entertaining, now is also the time to welcome your friends and family over to your new home. Even before the house is “perfect” you will take great pride in showing off your newest and most prized investment. There really is no better way to make a house a home than to fill it with those you love.
