10 tips to get moving-ready before you put your house on the market

When you put your house on the market you can reasonably expect that you’ll be moving sometime in the near future. So why beat around the bush? Don’t wait until the ‘SOLD’ sign goes up to get organised. Start the process early – not only will it make a big difference come moving day, but it can dramatically improve the appearance of your home by reducing clutter and helping to attract those all-important buyers.

Here are our top tips to ensure you’re ‘moving day ready’ before your house is even on the market!

1. Collect packing supplies

While many professional removalists will provide packing supplies, if you’re getting started early, it’ll be up to you to source boxes and wrap. This should be your first priority. Collect boxes from your local grocer, save any boxes and wrapping from new appliances and put the call out to family and friends. Don’t forget the markers for labelling!

2. Minimise and sell!

Before you start packing, take the opportunity to get rid of things you no longer need or want. With time on your side, you can list items on Ebay, Gumtree or online Buy, Sell, Swap pages. Put the profits toward your new home!

3. Start with non-essential items

Start with items that you don’t use regularly. It may be a couple of months before you move, so begin with items that you’re unlikely to use during this time. For example, if you’re in spring then you may be able to box up some of your heavier winter clothes.

4. Distribute weight

A perfect move involves perfect planning. Reserve larger boxes for lighter items and smaller boxes for heavier items to avoid overpacking. This will also ensure boxes can be picked up and easily moved.

5. Be descriptive

Detailed labels are crucial for moving day success, especially if you’re packing ahead of time because you will quickly forget what is in each box! When labelling boxes, include the room and specify the items in the box. Your future self will thank you for it!

6. Label, label, label

Label boxes on the side to ensure they can still be read if boxes are stacked. Even better, label boxes on more than one side and you won’t need to shift boxes to find out exactly what is in them.

7. Double up

Be waste wise (and economical!) and double up where you can. For example, instead of using bubble wrap, use clothes to wrap fragile items, or use luggage bags to transport some items in lieu of boxes.

8. Pack a bag of essentials

Moving day is a big day and it’s unlikely you’ll get all your unpacking done straight away. Plan to live out of a bag, at least for a couple days while you get organised. This will save you searching through boxes for those items you use every day. A packed bag of essentials will also be helpful if you plan to vacate while your home is open to buyers.

9. Meal plan

If you’ve been living at the same address for a while, it’s likely your kitchen pantry is well stocked. Plan to use up your forgotten pantry items to reduce moving boxes. It will help ensure a clean and tidy pantry which will score major points with buyers! It’s also a good idea to plan meals around your open house dates so there are no lingering food odours that could put buyers off.

10. Create lists

Lists are a great way to stay on top of your packing. Create ‘to do’ lists, packing checklists and set goals to help you stay on track before moving day.

It goes without saying that financial pressure or complications can only add to the stress of moving, so be sure to get your finances in order well before moving day.

Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing or building something brand new, at Mortgage House, we’re no strangers to the homeowner’s journey. It’s a long (but rewarding) one. Click here to email a Mortgage House Lending Specialist or phone 133 144 to ensure your finances are as organised as your moving boxes!