Planning your move

Once your sale is legally binding and the moving date is in sight, it’s time to focus on getting everything and everyone ready to go. Planning your move properly is the single best way to reduce stress, avoid last-minute problems and make sure you leave your home in the condition expected by the buyer.

The good news is that with a bit of structure and forward thinking, this can be one of the most satisfying stages of your move. It’s where you get to take control again, after weeks of legal steps, forms and back-and-forth. With the right plan, you’ll be handing over the keys with time to spare, not frantically loading boxes as the new owner rings the bell.

Start with your timeline

The key date to work around is your date of entry; the day ownership officially transfers to the buyer and the property needs to be cleared and ready. Once that’s confirmed in the missives, you’ll have a firm goal to work towards.

From there, work backwards. Give yourself at least three weekends before the move to start sorting, clearing and packing. If you’re working full time, be realistic about what you can achieve on weeknights and consider booking a couple of days off in the lead-up to the move.

If you’re planning to use professional movers, aim to get them booked as soon as the date is finalised. Reputable firms can get busy quickly, especially in peak seasons.

Declutter as you go

A move is the perfect excuse to be ruthless. Anything you don’t want in your next place, old furniture, worn-out appliances, things you’ve been meaning to get rid of for years, should be sorted before you start packing in earnest.

Work room by room, and sort things into clear categories: keep, donate, sell or recycle. There’s no point in paying to move clutter you’ll never use again.

Be aware of local recycling centres, donation options or bulk uplift services in your area. ESPC solicitor estate agents often have trusted recommendations if you need a hand with disposal.

Pack smart

You don’t need to spend a fortune on moving supplies, but having the basics in place will make a huge difference: strong boxes, labels, tape, bubble wrap and marker pens.

Label every box with both the contents and the room it’s intended for. This makes unpacking at the other end far quicker and less chaotic. If boxes are going into storage, note that clearly too.

Keep one or two ‘open first’ boxes aside for essentials you’ll need on the first night in your new place: kettle, mugs, phone chargers, toiletries and basic tools. You’ll be glad you did.

If you’re doing the move yourself, don’t overload boxes with heavy items. Books in small boxes, duvets in large ones is the way to go.

Arrange services and notify providers

Don’t forget the practical side of moving. Make a list of everyone who needs to know you’re leaving, including:

• Utility providers (gas, electricity, water)
• Broadband and phone companies
• TV licensing
• Council tax
• Banks and insurers
• GP and dentist
• HMRC, DVLA and any pension providers
• Friends, family and your workplace

Most of these changes can be handled online, and many providers allow you to set a changeover date in advance. Aim to take meter readings on your final day and keep a copy for reference.

You’ll also want to arrange for your post to be forwarded via Royal Mail’s redirection service, just in case you miss anyone.

Check your contract obligations

You’re legally required to leave the property in the state agreed in the missives. That usually means:

• All personal belongings removed
• Fixtures and fittings left in place as specified
• The home clean, tidy and secure
• Any agreed items (for example white goods or curtains) left behind in good working order

Don’t forget things like clearing out the loft, garden sheds or garages. These can be easy to overlook but are included in the handover.

If you’ve agreed to leave anything specific for the buyer, such as spare tiles or instruction manuals, make sure these are clearly marked and easy to find.

Handover day: what to expect

On the day of entry, you’ll normally drop off the keys at your solicitor estate agent’s office once the house is fully vacated and ready. You may also be asked to leave a set of keys inside the property.

You won’t need to meet the buyer or hand anything over in person. Once the buyer’s solicitor confirms that the funds have been transferred, the keys will be released and the transaction is complete.

It’s a good idea to take photographs of the empty property, including meter readings, in case of any follow-up queries or disputes.

A quick checklist

• Book your removal van or movers
• Clear out unwanted items early
• Start packing non-essentials first
• Label every box
• Notify all relevant providers
• Arrange mail redirection
• Leave the home clean and secure
• Hand in keys on time

Moving out doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a bit of structure, clear dates and some early action, you can make the experience surprisingly smooth. Most importantly, you’ll be handing over the property in a way that meets your legal obligations and leaves a good impression on the new owner.

Remember, your ESPC solicitor estate agent is there to help with any questions or concerns you have in the lead-up to the big day. Whether it’s checking the date of entry, confirming what needs to be left behind or helping you tie up final details, they’re just a call away.