Moving home is often described as one of life’s most stressful events with a recent poll from Yopa stating that 60% of people have been put off moving because the change is stressful. With a bit of planning however, this does not need to be the case
There are some simple steps that you can do to alleviate some of the stresses involved.
Preparation can be key – for example:
Rather than trying to get everything done at once, instead, perhaps create a checklist of things that need to be done and you will be amazed at how good it feels ticking each item off!
Check you have to hand any compliance certificates for works carried out; completion certificates, building regulations approval, Fensa or Certass certificates, Hetas certificate for any log burner, last gas safety checks, chimney sweep certificates etc – gather together any guarantees or warranties relating to the property as well such as cavity wall insulation or solar panels as these will need to be sent on to your buyers.
Once your property has been listed or you have found a property to purchase get those quotes in from solicitors! Ask to speak to the conveyancer that would be dealing with your case so you can ask any questions you may have – chances are if you are able to speak to them at this point you will further down the line as well.
When you are speaking to them let them know you want to be “contract ready”. This means that a file can be opened, and all the necessary checks and ID procedures are carried out in readiness and all required forms are completed. In a sale, this would be the Property Information Form for example. There will also be a Fittings and Contents Form, but you could hold back on this in case you want to discuss with your buyers any furniture or white goods you may agree to leave behind. By doing this from the outset it means once the rest of the chain are ready to progress matters you and your solicitor are as well.
One of the last things people often think about when purchasing a home is booking their removal companies. As soon as you are aware of any potential moving date it is best to try and get this organised. Many companies offer a provisional booking date meaning that it can easily be changed if the date changes and you may be able to reserve this without paying any deposit.
Although it may seem obvious, attend to those nagging little jobs around the house that you have been putting off. Freshen up walls if needed, keep on top of garden maintenance – kerb appeal is still relevant, declutter – there are plenty of sites such as Facebook Marketplace, Vinted or eBay that you can use and who knows you may even be able to raise the removal costs if needed and if not there are plenty of charity shops that would be happy to take any surplus items.
But most of all, if it does become overwhelming put the kettle on and take a breather!
Should you have a Property matter that you wish to discuss, please contact us.
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Please note that the law may have changed since this article was published.
