Congratulations – you’ve found a house you want to move into, and you’ve started the sale or rental negotiations. Everything is looking really positive and it looks like you’ll be set to move within the next couple of months.

Now the real fun begins…… thinking about moving your stuff!

Whether its moving into a rental or property you own, the key to a successful move is planning, and here’s where the little guide we’ve created can help.

It comes in the form of a checklist, and gives you a timeline to work to so you know what needs to be done by when, and we’ve included some handy packing tips too.

Most importantly, it will give you peace of mind that you’ve remembered to do everything before the big moving day. Here are just some of the things included on our free Planning your Move guide:

5 weeks out

If buying a property, first and foremost, make sure you speak with your solicitor to make sure you know the sale is definite, and get expected settlement date.

Now really is the time to be going through your belongings, sorting out what can be sold, go to charity or be ditched. This will give you a realistic idea of what will need taking when you approach removalists for quotes. If you haven’t done so already, start accumulating boxes and packing what you won’t need or use in the next couple of months.

4 weeks out

At this stage, you need to be thinking about informing services such as your internet provider of your impending move. Some do require 4 weeks’ notice, but may move their services free of charge to your new property.

If you’re renting, make sure you’ve handed your notice in to your current landlord so you’re not charged for when you’re not in the property.

3 weeks out

There is a fair bit of paperwork to be done around now….. collect family’s dental and medical records, letters of introduction and children’s school records.

Advise your solicitor, local council, insurance companies, accountant, hire purchase companies, stores where you have accounts, clubs and gyms etc of your impending move.

2 weeks out

Are there any plants in the garden you like? Start taking cuttings now! Also, ask a few friends/relatives if they have the day of your move free….. even if they can’t physically help with the move, they may be happy to look after the kids for a while.

If you’re moving interstate, is the car OK to drive that far? Might be worth dropping it into the garage for a quick service.

The final 7-day countdown

Arrange electoral roll transfer, set-aside a box of cleaning equipment, finalise utility accounts – the last week is usually quite hectic, so try to take some time off from work so you can manage it properly.

Get our free Planning your Move checklist straight to your phone. Simply text “move” to 0488 884 520 and we will send you a link so you can download it and store it electronically – that way it won’t get lost in amongst the other paperwork!

Or you can print it out (or call in at the office for a hard copy), and then feel the satisfaction of seeing things crossed off the list.

We do more than simply sell or manage property – we’re here to make your life easier!

With over 40 years in the business, our talented team is constantly looking for new and innovative ways to ensure your real estate experience is exceptional. This is why we are one of Newcastle’s longest established real estate offices.

Drop into the Cardiff office or give us a call on 02 4954 8833. Or send us an email to: mail@apnewcastle.com.au – we’d love to hear from you.

For more handy tips on anything to do with buying and selling property, check out our Facebook page.

Don’t forget to text “move” to 0488 884 520 to instantly receive your FREE Planning Your Move checklist.