There are a number of things you should get started as soon as you get a final date for completion from your solicitor
Date of move
Confirm the date with the seller. This avoids any crossed wires.
Removal companies
Start getting some quotes for removals companies if you are going to use one. Don't forget to find out what other services they offer, such as packing, packaging, cleaning, insurance and storage. You should try to book one as soon after you set a date as possible.
Insurance
Check the situation with your buildings and contents insurance provider and arrange transit insurance for the move if necessary. This can almost always be done through your removal company. Make sure you check any policies thoroughly for exclusions and ensure that a policy will be in place to cover the contents of your new home once you have moved in. Need new insurance?
Work leave
Let your employer know as early as possible. Some employers give generous amounts of unpaid leave when you are buying a house. Others may need the time just to allocate holidays.
School visits
Arrange to visit schools in the new area if you have not already done so. Inform existing schools of the leaving date if appropriate.
List property
Have a good look around the entire contents of your house and make a long list of everything major. Write a list of everything that you intend to leave behind in the property and pass it on to your solicitor. It is important that this is accurate. For insurance purposes and to assist you in your packing inventory later on, make a list of all the major items you are taking with you. This should be quite detailed and include costs, dates and place of purchase.
Dump your junk
Find out about local car boot sales and charity shops - all the 'junk' you're not taking is probably worth something to someone. Maybe you could flog the lot at an online auction. I could buy the entire unwanted contents of someone's home and have my own house sale as if it was me that were moving. Or not.
Check your bank balance
Check what your total buying costs are going to be and make sure that your bank account will cope with so many debits at the same time. If you are going to struggle until the proceeds of your own sale go through, consider speaking to the bank about a bridging loan to cover you for the difference. |
