Tips on Moving House Once You Have Sold
Congratulations – your property is sold! After all the hard work that went into preparing your home for sale, negotiating the deal, and signing the contract, it’s time to turn your focus to the next big step: moving out.
While moving house can feel overwhelming, a bit of planning goes a long way in making the process smoother. Here are some helpful tips to guide you from sold sign to settled in.
1. Confirm Key Dates Early
Start by locking in your settlement date and understanding when you legally need to hand over the keys. From there, work backwards to set your moving schedule, including packing, cleaning, and booking removalists.
Pro tip: Aim to move out at least one day before settlement to avoid last-minute stress.
2. Book a Reputable Removalist
Good removalists get booked out quickly, especially on weekends or near the end of the month. Do your research, read reviews, and get a few quotes. Decide if you need a full-service option (including packing) or just transport.
If you’re going DIY with a hire truck or trailer, make sure you're confident in loading and unloading safely.
3. Declutter Before You Pack
Moving is the perfect opportunity to let go of items you no longer use. Start early and be ruthless: donate, sell, or recycle anything that doesn’t need to come with you. You’ll save time, money, and effort.
4. Pack Smart – and Early
Start packing non-essentials weeks before moving day. Label every box clearly with its contents and the room it belongs to. Keep an “essentials box” handy for the first night in your new place – include things like toiletries, chargers, toilet paper, snacks, and a change of clothes.
5. Arrange Utilities and Change of Address
Contact your electricity, gas, water, internet, and insurance providers to notify them of your move. Don’t forget to redirect your mail and update your address with banks, schools, and any subscription services.
6. Do a Final Clean (or Hire a Cleaner)
Most contracts require you to leave the home in reasonably clean condition. Whether you do it yourself or hire professionals, make sure the house is tidy and all rubbish is removed before settlement day.
7. Stay in Communication With Your Agent and Solicitor
Keep in touch with your real estate agent and conveyancer or solicitor leading up to settlement. If anything changes – like settlement being brought forward or delayed – you’ll want to be in the loop.
8. Take Photos of the Property Before You Leave
As an extra layer of protection, take time-stamped photos of the home once it's empty and clean. It can help in the rare case of disputes after settlement.
9. Celebrate the Milestone
Selling and moving is a big achievement – take a moment to acknowledge it! Whether it’s a takeaway dinner on the first night in your new place or a quiet toast to a fresh chapter, you deserve to celebrate.
At Smyth Real Estate, we're here to help you every step of the way – from preparing your home for market, to a smooth handover after the sale. If you're planning your next move or need property advice, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Need a trusted removalist, cleaner, or storage solution? We’re happy to recommend local providers we trust.
