I started the year off on a high note. I was finally able to check the most important item off my bucket list – I moved out. As excited as I was, there were several things I missed out on or could have done better; which is why I am making this list today. For you, who plans on moving out this year but you don’t know what to do or how to go about it.
- Where are you moving to?
I think the most important step to moving is figuring out where you are actually moving to. This entails checking listings and finding a place that is within your budget (in terms of rent) and other considerations such as proximity to your school/workplace and basic amenities. How easy is it for you to commute? How’s the water supply? How’s the security and is there parking space?
Once you’ve answered all these questions and are set on where you’re moving to, you are ready for the next step.
- When’s the moving date?
Setting a date for your move is key. Say for example, you plan on moving to a new town and work starts on the 3rd; you will need to sort out your billings (including water and electricity) during the previous month, notify your former landlord and ensure you have enough time to settle into your new home before you start your new job or figure out your new matatu routes.
- Make a list
This comes in very handy especially if you’re moving out of your parent’s home or if you were living with roommates. Identifying your personal items and making a list of them to ensure that you don’t leave anything behind.
Have the list while you unpack as well just to ensure that the movers didn’t forget something and that everything is where it needs to be.
- Have a budget
A lot of people spend a lot of money during moving on unnecessary costs. Having a budget on the exact amount you plan on spending – either on movers or moving-boxes and transportation allows you to prepare in advance.
- Pack
This is probably the easiest yet most terrifying part of moving. Putting your things together may make unpacking easy or the most horrendous thing you will ever go through. Needless to say, there needs to be a system to your packing – kitchen stuff goes in one box and should not end up with the toiletries. Take care of your silverware too.
Not to mention the nostalgia of leaving one place but having a fresh start.
ProTip: When you buy home appliances keep the boxes they’ll come in handy when moving.
- Have a survival box
This is for the first night in the new house; everything is in boxes and you can’t find your sleeping cap or your toothbrush and it is too late to unpack. Pack a survival box; which would contain everything you would need to get ready for bed and survive the next day (if you have school or work) without rummaging through everything or at least until you are ready to unpack.
- Collect important documents
Passports, IDs, Title Deeds, Certificates and work documents should be packed separately and in a bag, you can guard with your life. Losing important documents will set you back and the process of renewal might take even longer.
ProTip: Make copies if you have to.
- Shop for the new home
Especially for the first week, make sure you have the essentials: cleaning material, cooking items and personal effects. This will allow you to survive before focusing on everything else such as blinders, curtains, sofas, a microwave etc. Make sure you have enough to cook and clean your new home for one to two weeks.
- Move In!
Now you’re ready for your new home. Hopefully, it will be more successful than my attempt.
Good luck.
Speaking of moving, here are 10 Must-Haves When You Move
