Moving in

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Move-in day, also known as the date of entry, is when you officially become the legal owner of your new home. It marks the end of the legal and financial stages of buying a property, and the beginning of your life as a homeowner. It’s an exciting day, often filled with anticipation, but like any important milestone, it also comes with logistics and small details that are worth planning ahead for.

ESPC are here to help you understand what happens on the day itself, what to expect from your solicitor and estate agent, and how to prepare for a smooth transition into your new home.

How Move-in Day works

The legal handover of your new property is coordinated through your solicitor estate agent. They will be in direct contact with the seller’s solicitor to finalise the final stage of the purchase: the transfer of funds and the release of keys.

Here’s how the day usually unfolds:

  • Your solicitor transfers the purchase funds to the seller’s solicitor. This typically happens in the morning, but the exact timing depends on how quickly banks process the transaction.
  • Once the seller’s solicitor confirms receipt of funds, they authorise the release of the keys.
  • Keys are usually collected from the estate agent’s office; your solicitor or the agent will notify you when they are ready.
  • You are now the legal owner, and you can move into the property.

Tips for a smooth move-in

To help your move go as smoothly as possible, a bit of forward planning can make all the difference:

  • Confirm the date and time with your solicitor a few days beforehand so everyone is aligned.
  • Have insurance in place from your date of entry. Your new home should be covered from the moment you take ownership, even if you’re not moving in immediately.
  • Take meter readings for gas, electricity, and water as soon as you arrive. Photograph them as a record for future billing disputes.
  • Bring a separate box of essentials, especially if you’re using a removal company. Include items like phone chargers, toilet paper, cleaning supplies, snacks, light bulbs, and tools.
  • Do a quick walk-through before moving furniture in. Check for anything unexpected, and confirm the property matches what was agreed.

Common delays and how to handle them

Although most move-ins go smoothly, there are occasional delays. Being aware of these in advance helps reduce stress on the day.

  • Bank transfer delays can sometimes hold up the release of keys, especially if funds are moving between different institutions. For this reason, most solicitors aim to complete transfers as early in the day as possible.
  • Key collection timing can be affected by business hours. If you’re expecting to move in on a Friday afternoon, check when the estate agent closes and try to avoid cutting it close.
  • Tradespeople or deliveries should ideally be scheduled a day or two later. While it’s tempting to start immediately, access delays or last-minute surprises can throw off your timing.

Move-in day is a moment to celebrate. It’s the day your new home becomes your own, and your journey as a homeowner begins. While it may feel a little hectic, taking time to plan the details like communicating with your solicitor, double-checking practicalities, and packing thoughtfully, can make the day feel more enjoyable and less stressful.