Packing boxes is only half of the job of moving out. Once everything’s packed up, there’s still much work left for you to do in order to prepare your old space for handover. Here are a few steps that will make sure that you have an easy transition of your old space:
Double-Check for Forgotten Items
It can be easy to overlook items when packing, especially small ones or those hidden away in less visible spots. Before beginning to pack, conduct a thorough walk-through of each room by inspecting behind doors, closets, drawers and cabinets. Take a second look in the attic, garage and basement spaces as forgotten items often turn up unexpectedly and retrieving them later can become a hassle.
Get Pros to Clean
Hiring professional cleaners can make the moving out process a lot less draining, saving you time and energy by leaving your old home sparkling clean, meeting any cleaning requirements set forth by landlords or property managers. Experts like Seattle Green Cleaning Fairy possess all of the equipment required for complex tasks, like scrubbing ovens or bathrooms or deep-cleaning carpets. Plus leaving a tidy space increases chances of receiving your full security deposit back. Hiring pros provides peace of mind while allowing you to focus on this exciting transition towards your new home.
Unplug, Disconnect, and Cancel
Before departing, be sure that all utilities and services have been cancelled or transferred correctly, such as electricity, water, gas, internet services or subscription plans associated with your address. Unplug appliances and remove batteries to avoid leaks or hazards. Conducting a quick checklist can save the hassle of ongoing billing for an address you are no longer using.
Patch, Repair, and Touch Up
Minor wear and tear may be unavoidable, but it’s always polite (and sometimes required by lease agreements or sales contracts) to repair the damage caused during your stay. Repair nail holes, repaint marked walls, repair any inadvertently broken items. Even small efforts can make an enormous difference in leaving a good impression.
Notify and Update
Be sure to notify the postal services, banks, subscription services and any other important institutions of any changes in your address. Not only is this considerate but directing your mail helps make sure that no important documents or packages get misplaced in transit.
Take Final Photos
Before departing the property, take time-stamped photos of each room as it stands in its final state. This step is especially important for renters. These images serve as evidence that will help to resolve any potential disputes regarding damages that might come up down the line.
Return Keys and Complete Paperwork
One of the final steps of moving out should include returning all keys, access cards, or garage openers to avoid additional follow-up. Depending on your landlord, realtor, or buyer requirements, finalize any remaining paperwork or inspections if needed.
Conclusion
Moving out doesn’t stop once the boxes have been unpacked, it’s the final touches that truly wrap up this chapter of life. From cleaning and repairing, updating your address information and taking pictures, each step ensures a positive endpoint. With proper planning and attention paid to detail, moving can become less stressful and more fulfilling.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.
