Property Tree's Moving Checklist

We get it. Moving can be a real hassle. This is especially true for first-time homeowners who may have a basic idea of what to expect but may often fall victim to various unforeseen circumstances.

Our list will cover all the most important tasks you need to complete for your move. These are the aspects you need to consider from hiring a conveyancer to when you first unlock the door. Luckily, Property Tree knows all too well what to look out for, offering a complete strategy to avoid unnecessary stress.

Property Tree wishes you a happy move!

Start with researching your move

Once you've bought your dream home and the OTP has been accepted, the next step is to create your house moving checklist. Keep it simple and easy to follow, and keep in mind the time frame required to complete these steps. We usually recommend eight weeks to go through it all.
 

Now, getting all the legalities out of the way is essential to ensure your moving process remains as seamless as possible.

• Hire a conveyancer and research their services, costs, and where to find the best man/woman for the job. Contact us for more details if you're unsure.

• Consider your mortgage, and have a budget planned for additional renovations.

• Plan your kids' school transfer and ensure all records for their next term are processed.

• For renters, ensure your landlord is well aware of your moving date. Let them know at least two months in advance.

• Have all of your valuables assessed by your insurance company. If they're not covered, now is the time to do so.

• Create a Google Document to store all of your notes. Yes, even this checklist is below. Here you can pinpoint your to-do lists, keep track of dates with Google Calendar, and schedule appointments. 

Pre-Planning

We recommend starting this process a month or more just before moving. But before that, do a complete review of everything you own. Take stock of what you want to keep and what should be donated or thrown out. This part of the process can be emotional.

• Create a complete checklist of all of your moving possessions. (Use your Google Document), you will need this for the moving company. 

• Envision where most of these possessions will go in your new home and take note of these. Contact your Property Practitioner to get access to a floor plan of your new home to make this process easier.

• Decide what you need to do with items you don't want. Moving companies charge per volume, so donating unwanted clothes, furniture, or appliances now will save you money in the long run.

• Check that the size of the truck can enter your gate or estate

• Get pre-clearance from your estate if necessary.

• Research the best moving companies, rates, and recommendations, and then get at least three quotes. Don't always choose the cheapest. Think value for money.

• You will need plenty of boxes, a few black marker pens and packaging materials like newspapers so speak to your moving company about whether they can provide this for you. If not, Leroy Merlin and other similar stores will have all the materials you need.

• If by any chance you're moving for work, check to see what your employer may be able to cover in terms of costs.

We've listed some of the best-rated moving companies below:

• Master Movers Gauteng

• Biddulph's International - Pretoria

• AGS International Movers

• Pickfords Removals Johannesburg

Signing final documents and packing

It's the final month before the move, so you had a surveyor check out your property, informing you of any issues. It's time to finalise your moving date. You'll be making appointments with your moving company and finishing packing.

• Speak to your Property Practitioner about finalising dates and signing any outstanding documents.

• Follow up with your moving company about your moving date at least a week before.

• Be sure to plan your move during the week, as some companies tend to charge higher premiums during school holidays, public holidays, or the weekend.

• Despite best-laid plans, there is always room for error. If you find that there may not be space for some of your items, contact your moving company about hiring out temporary storage containers.

• Speak to your Property Practitioner about having your new home spring cleaned before you move in and after the previous owners have left.

• This short period also gives you time to plan out renovations and installations. Use this opportunity to get the necessary measurements and plan with your renovators or builders, from blinds to carpets.

• When it comes to packing, always start with non-essential items. Clear out the least used spaces first.

• Take this opportunity to clear out any garages, wendy houses, or other storage. Clean your gardening equipment before handing it over to moving companies.

• Contact your bank, utility company, and other accounts to ensure that your new address appears on your bills.

• Pack yourself a small toiletry and overnight bag that is easy to access. You will need access to clothes and cleaning items on the fly.

• Mark the boxes. 

The BIG move!

At this late stage of the moving process, it's crucial to ensure that everything organises seamlessly, from your set dates to packing your boxes. On the day of the move, and if you have kids or pets, it's best to have a friend or family look after them so that you can focus on getting through this process.

• Confirm every detail with your moving company and ensure that all parties confirm times, directions, and contact details.

• Be sure that you have access to a first aid kit. Moving takes it out of you. Bumps, bruises and scratches are guaranteed.

• Arrange with family members to look after your pets and children.

• For any service not covered by your moving company, e.g. flattening or dismantling specific furniture, be sure to book with these alternative carry-out services in advance.

• Be sure to safely dispose of any corrosive or flammable liquids, cleaning apparatus, or utilities. Moving companies may not allow for the transportation of dangerous goods.

• Be sure to settle all outstanding expenses and contact any service providers from gardeners to cleaners to let them know you're leaving.

• Any perishable food items should either be donated or safely disposed of.

Final Considerations - Odds and Ends

There are always unforeseen issues that may crop up. Please contact us for additional support if you are unsure about anything on this list. Our Property Practitioners are well versed in the moving process and may be able to offer helpful tips.
 

Whether you're looking for your dream property or lifestyle estate, contact us at Property Tree and let our professional group of Property Practitioners find the right home for you!

https://www.property-tree.co.za/ or contact us: https://www.property-tree.co.za/contact/