Moving in with your partner can be one of the most exciting steps in a relationship. However, like any move, there are many bases that must be covered in preparation for this new chapter. Communicating openly about expectations, discussing financial responsibilities, and deciding on the logistics of the move are just a few crucial aspects.

To help you better prepare for moving in with your significant other, we’ve put together a list of 10 tips to make your move-in process as smooth and seamless as possible.

1. Do a Few Trial Runs

If you haven’t already started staying the night with your partner in your separate living spaces, give it a try! This will provide you both with more insight into each other’s sleep habits, cleaning schedules, and daily routines.

2. Create a Budget

It’s crucial to be on the same page as your partner when it comes to finances before packing any boxes. Create a budget for expenses like rent, utilities, and groceries to avoid surprises once you make the move.

3. Pick a Place

Couple holding keys

One of the most important questions to ask is, “Where should we live?” You could opt to stay in your current space and have your partner join you, or vice versa. Or maybe you’ll choose to move into an entirely new, neutral space and make a home together.

4. Take an Inventory of Belongings

With two households coming together, you’re bound to have duplicates of many items. Decide which items from each household to bring into your joint living space. For instance, maybe you have a comfier bed, and your partner has a newer television.

5. Start Downsizing

Speaking of duplicate items…start downsizing before entering your joint living space! Donate or sell any items you’ll no longer need. For sentimental items or anything you aren’t comfortable getting rid of (but don’t feel you’ll need in your shared space), you may want to consider finding a space in your new home to store a few boxes of important personal belongings or renting a storage unit.

6. Divide Household Chores

Moving in together is about more than just the move itself—it’s important to make sure that you both understand what is expected regarding household duties. Consider making a physical chore list, at least for the first few months.

7. Make a Plan for Guests

Set house rules and expectations for any friends and family that may be coming to visit. This will also give you and your partner the chance to discuss where guests might stay if you’re hosting them overnight.

8. Talk About Pets

If you haven’t had a conversation about pets, now would be the time to do so! Whether it’s pets you already have or pets you hope to have in the future, ensuring that you and your partner are on the same page will make your joint living space comfortable for everyone (including your furry friends).

9. Decide on Decor

Talk with your partner and decide on a decor and design aesthetic before you get too far into making your joint space feel like home. Work together to find wall decor, art, and furniture you both enjoy.

10. Schedule Nights for Yourself

If you and your partner are moving in together for the first time, scheduling some intentional time for yourself may make the transition easier. This could mean scheduling some solo time out of the house or even just setting a time where you’ll be in one area of your home while your partner is in another. Personal time is a must!

Leave the Heavy Lifting to Us!

Do you and your partner need help with your move? We’d love to assist—and we’ve got full-service options available if you want us to handle all the packing and unpacking. Just reach out to us for a free quote to get started!

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