It is both fun and exciting to take the next step of moving in with your significant other for the first time. Of course, along with the fun and excitement, are some logistical items that you need to take into consideration. You may find that the old saying, ‘What you love about them now will drive you crazy later,’ becomes especially true when moving in together. So we have compiled a list of questions to discuss beforehand to make this life transition together as seamless as possible. With these topics as your guide, enter the experience with open communication and understanding by sharing your expectations, goals, and boundaries for the new living arrangements.
How will you combine your household belongings? Well before move-in day is the time to take an inventory of all your combined belongings. From the big furniture items down to the 20 coffee mugs between the two of you, decisions will have to be made about where to downsize. Work together to decide what is going to work best for both of you. You can sell or donate items that will no longer be needed. And if you have any sentimental items that you do not have room for, you can always put them into secure storage.
What are the expectations for taking care of household tasks and chores? Conversations on who will handle specific chores and duties around the house will save many conflicts later on down the road. Make sure that you are both on board with the division of tasks and how and how often they will be carried out. Your partner’s definition of “cleaning the kitchen” can be completely different than your definition. The degree of messiness/cleanliness you both can live with should be as similar as possible.
How will your cohabitation work financially? One of the most important aspects of moving in together is finances. Save stress by having conversations early on about who’s name will the property/lease and utilities be under, which expenses are joint vs. which ones will be separate, deciding who will pay the joint bills, if you need a joint account, and how that account will be budgeted and managed.
Are your daily schedules and habits in line with each other? Some couples want to spend every waking minute together, while others need a little downtime from each other. If you both have the same work hours and move in together, then you may lose some of your autonomy. Having the same schedule may also have you competing for time in the bathroom if you share that space. If you both work from home, how will having another person around impact your day? It is essential to discuss all your daily routines ahead of moving in together to set expectations for how your days together will flow.
Of course, you can always expect an adjustment period when moving in with your significant other—staying flexible and a commitment to talking through any issues that arise will carry you through any challenging days you encounter. When you are ready for your move, give us a call at 1-800-PACK-RAT or contact us online. We offer services for local and long-distance moves, as well as storage for every need.