Icy pavements, short days, festive calendars bulging with events… Moving house in the run-up to Christmas calls for careful planning and attention to detail.
Here’s how to get settled in time to hang lights on the tree.
Make arrangements as early as possible
December often sees a rush of people trying to move before the holidays. Add in Christmas parties and social events, not to mention seasonal flu, and everyone gets a little frantic – movers and businesses alike. Once you’ve had an offer accepted on a property, get cracking with the arrangements, including:
- Securing your mortgage offer
- Hiring a solicitor or conveyancer
- Finding your ID and some proof of address
- If you’re selling, organising the right documents
- Booking a removals company if you’re using one
Usually, it’s best to give yourself at least six weeks to prepare for move day. If you can already smell the mince pies, get super organised with how you spend your time – try ringing instead of emailing for removal quotes, for example. Start sorting your packing and any storage.
Just remember: finding the right solicitor can save you time and complications, so take care to read reviews and ask around for recommendations.
Communicate swiftly
Imagine: you’re expecting to exchange contracts any day – except there’s a mysterious delay somewhere down the chain. This frustrating scenario can often be avoided with enough early communication. Everyone needs to flag any issues straight away and talk to their estate agent or solicitor about any doubts or questions, from what to include in the contents form to suitable exchange and completion dates.
Likewise, respond to any questions from your seller or buyer in good time. The earlier you can fix problems, the smoother the conveyancing process.
Check the weather forecast
If possible, plan to move boxes during daylight hours and allow more travel time if the roads are wet or slippery. Whatever the current forecast, prepare for tricky weather by considering the following:
- Using sturdy boxes that won’t weaken when wet
- Keeping walkways safe and clear of obstructions
- Covering the carpets with plastic sheeting to protect from wet, muddy shoes
- If you’re moving in the dark, make sure any porch and outdoor lights work
When you’re battling the elements, it’s even more important to clearly label your boxes so you know exactly what’s going where – use a bold marker pen you can see in the dim winter light.
Set up a post-redirect and organise the internet
Make sure you don’t miss any Christmas cards or presents – or other important documents – by arranging for post redirection through the Royal Mail. You can choose how long to redirect your post for – for example, six months. Another important job? Talk to your internet provider about getting online in that first week.
Go easy on yourself over the holidays
If Christmas already brings stress and emotion, moving home further ups the ante. Don’t be afraid to ask others for help and slim down your gift-buying list. Pack your decorations in a clearly labelled box and enjoy the act of decorating your new home, even if it’s just tinsel strewn along a fireplace or a star in the window.
Final thoughts
While moving during the festive period brings challenges, with enough careful planning, you can feel confident in the steps involved. And what a gift to look forward to: a new home to enjoy in the new year.
