7 Ways to Make Moving In Together a Success

Discuss the location and Establish Formal Residency 

First and foremost, think about whether it makes sense to simply move into your partner’s place or find a new home together. Some considerations that may impact where you end up include potential distance from frequented spots, proximity to both partners’ workplaces, and whether one of you already owns the property. 

If you want to start with a clean slate, moving to a completely new home where you can both feel ownership of the place is best. Regardless of where you move, both partners should establish formal residency. Although breaking up is never part of the plan, it is important to document your residency so neither party is left paying more than they can cover. For instance, if you have decided to rent, be sure to put both names  on the lease. You may want to discuss the hypothetical breakup and mutually decide who would need to move out and who stays back. Although uncomfortable, it is better to discuss this beforehand so you can make rational choices and protect yourself!

Determine the Budget

Create a budget that covers utilities, rent, groceries, and other daily expenses. Next, discuss how you will divide the bills between both partners and ensure you both come to a practical and fair agreement. 

Create an Inventory of your Items

Before you start packing, review the items in both of your homes and note any duplicates. Common duplicates you may find include cooking utensils, appliances, furniture, holiday decorations, and electronics. As you identify duplicate items, review each one together and decide what to donate, recycle,  sell, or keep. 

In big cities, storage space can be limited and you’ll want to avoid having a home cramped with extra boxes of unnecessary belongings. Get a storage unit for any items you are not ready to get rid of but don’t work in your new home setup. This can help reduce clutter and potential tensions in your new house with your partner. 

Invest in Equipment

A couple of days before moving in, stock up on essential supplies so you’re not caught without sufficient boxes on move in day! You can buy, borrow, or rent box cutters, permanent markers, garbage bags, adhesive tape, packing tape, and paper towels. 

For bigger moving equipment, like a truck, consider hiring a moving company. Book their services in advance so you don’t have to pay a higher price or scramble to hire at the last minute. This is especially true if you are moving during peak season. 

Clean And Maintain Your New Home

Once you have successfully moved in with your partner, cleaning up and maintaining your new home can quickly become the focal point. To keep things spotless without triggering any disagreements, sit down and discuss how you’ll plan to divide up chores and other responsibilities. For instance, you may not mind washing the dishes and doing laundry, while your significant other is happiest cooking food and making the bed. 

Start by splitting cleaning chores in half by having clear dialogues about what it will look like. If you work from home while your partner works a 50-hour weekly shift, it’s only fair to redistribute tasks until both people are satisfied with their responsibilities and have time to relax. 

Understand That It Takes Time To Adjust

After living alone, with friends, or with family, moving in with your significant other is a big step. Realize that any big move takes time to adjust to, and that you’ll have to get used to your new place, new surroundings, changing schedules, and much more. 

Communication is key, so keep things transparent and open rather than bottling your emotions. Be prepared to be surprised and even disappointed in certain areas, and commit to being patient and adjusting together. 

Final Thoughts

Moving in together with your partner marks the start of an exciting new beginning. To prevent the experience from being overly stressful, be sure to discuss everything in detail beforehand such as finances, chores and responsibilities, location, and how you’d handle a potential breakup. 

Remember that a successful move-in requires both partners to compromise and give each other time to adjust. Be vocal about your complaints and concerns, but do it in a polite and non-threatening way. Be sure to have a backup plan in case things go south.