Tips for a Stress Free Move into a Retirement Apartment
Posted 10th July 2023
Making moving into your new retirement apartment a success
So, you’ve found your perfect retirement apartment to rent and you’re moving to a safe and secure retirement community. So what’s next?
Moving is an exciting but stressful time – there is so much to plan and organise.
This can become can be even more daunting when you are taking on a move later in life – especially if you are moving out of the family home with a lifetime’s memories and emotions. Moving house later in life makes a lot of sense, and there are many good reasons.
Have you made the decision to downsize (or rightsize)? The key is to be as prepared as possible from the moment you know you are moving, start your countdown to moving day.
If you’re planning to move this year, we’ve put together our top tips to ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible.
Have a plan…
Don’t leave everything to the last minute! There is nothing more satisfying than ticking off jobs on a ‘To Do’ list, so use this to organise yourself nice and early.
De-clutter… do you really need that?
If you are downsizing to a smaller home you will need to review your belongings – it’s not all going to fit! Paying to put things into expensive storage can be money down the drain.
Tackle it room by room and decide what you want to keep, throw away/recycle, sell or donate.
Marie Kondo – Queen of declutter says if an item doesn’t spark joy then get rid! If you have not used it or worn it in the last two years you don’t need it!
Use this as an excuse for a really good clear out. But don’t feel pressure to get rid of all your sentimental items – things that bring back happy memories are so important. Photographs are a great way to decorate your new home…old memories in a new home!
Contact removal companies
Speak with removal companies early and get some quotes. Try local businesses near your current home and new home, as well as the bigger removal companies to see who can offer you the best deal.
Once you have found a suitable company book them in so that’s one less thing to have to worry about.
Don’t forget to let everyone know your new address…
Banks/insurance and investment companies
Make a list of all the bank accounts, insurances and investments you may have. People often forget about things they have taken out, so it’s useful to go through all your paperwork and make a note of what you have (this is a great chance to tidy the paperwork too!).
Utility companies, phone, TV, broadband & subscription services
Call utility companies and let them know your moving date and new address so they can send final bills or transfer services. Don’t forget to take meter readings on your final day or take a photo to record it.
Do the same with your TV, phone and broadband providers, as well as your subscription services such as Netflix and Amazon. And don’t forget TV licensing too!
Family, friends, pets and others
Consider change of address cards for all your friends and family ready to send closer to the time. If you have pets, make sure you change the address with the microchip company and let your vet know too. You may also wish to contact a vet close to your new home to start the registration process. Also start to make a note of everything you get sent through the post and if it’s a company you wish to stay in touch with let them know you are moving.
Redirect post
Remember to redirect post for everyone that lives in your household in good time. You don’t want to miss out on letters and packages still being sent to your old address. It’s useful to leave your new address with the selling/rental agent or new owners/renters of your house so that they can forward mail if necessary.
Cancel milk/papers/other regular deliveries
If you are relocating to a new area, think about those little essentials. Once it is a bit closer to your move date cancel things like milk and paper deliveries and pay any outstanding bills.
First night essentials
It’s a good idea to keep a box with items you will need on your first night such as kettle, mugs, utensils, tea, coffee, plates, tea towel, snacks, toilet rolls, soap, washing up liquid, bin liners, tin opener, any medication, pet food, towels etc. Also ensure your bedding is easily found so you can make up your bed as soon as you arrive.
The Big Day
Remember to do one final check just before you leave and make sure all the doors and windows are locked and the heating is off. Then it’s just time to lock the front door and you are off to start a new and exciting chapter in your life!
Remember, the benefits of moving to a smaller, more manageable property can be huge. Do not worry, look for all the positives and be excited for your new start.