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I'm currently in the process of moving to a new home. Based on my experience thus far, here are some things that you should consider to help the move go smoothly:

1. Arrange for transport of your stuff to your new house. Get quotes from a few removal companies, as there are sometimes real savings to be had.

2. Get boxes and bags and pack all the possessions that you need to take with you. This is also an excellent opportunity to get rid of all the clutter that you've built up. Give stuff that you don't need to charity shops, or hold a car boot sale.

3. Give your new address details to those people and companies who need them. This will include the post office, your bank, any companies that you hold shares with, etc.

4. Put a post re-direct on. Make sure that any mail sent to your old address gets forwarded onto your new address

5. Check the gas and electricity meter readings in your old and your new houses, to make sure that you don't get charged for usage that you weren't responsible for.

6. Check out the new area that you're going to live in. Work out where all the local amenities are.

7. Arrange new schools for the kids, if your move means that they can't stay at the same school.

8. Make sure your kids are kept informed of what's happening and why it's happening. Moving house will be stressful for them, as well as for you. And they may resent being taken away from friends. Tell them about the advantages of the new place, so they can share in the excitement of the move.

9. Work out if you need to buy anything for the new house. For example, if you're moving from a 1 bedroom flat, to a 3 bedroom house, then you may need new beds and other furniture.

10. Arrange time off work. You're probably going to want a few days to get settled in your new home, so check with your employer to see if you can take some leave.

11. Don't forget to consider your pets' needs. Cats and dogs can find it bewildering and stressful when they are suddenly placed into a new environment. Take some time to make sure that they are okay.

Hopefully, with a bit of preparation and hard work, your move will go smoothly and you will be able to fully enjoy the process of moving into your new home. Be aware, that whilst it can be a stressful time, the rewards will hopefully far outweigh any negatives.

Learn more about this author, Simon Wright.
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