After dating for a while, you have finally decided it is time to take the relationship to the next level with your partner and move in together. This can be a huge life transition for both of you as it gives you a chance to learn more about each other’s daily rhythm, as well as to test your relationship and see what sharing a life together could look like.
However, although this can be an exciting and rewarding experience for both of you, it can easily turn south if you don’t plan it carefully. In fact, moving in together involves taking several things into consideration which will make your experience go as smoothly as possible and reduce the chances of heartbreak and financial disaster.
To help you along, we have decided to write the ultimate guide outlining the most important things you have to take into account to make the move successful.
Decide where you are going to live
The most obvious decision you will have to make first is to decide where you are going to live. Are you going to move into their place, stay in yours or look for a new place together? This could be a rather easy decision if one of you lives in a two-bedroom studio apartment which is just enough for the beginning.
However, if you decide to purchase a new home, there are several things you need to consider, from the location and type of the property to the finances you need to afford a house. For instance, if you are planning to move to Ontario, Canada, click here to explore a few affordable places to buy a home that matches your personal needs and budget.
Evaluate your finances
Whether you are planning to buy a new home or stay in one of each other’s homes, it is important that you talk about your finances before you start packing boxes. This involves calculating how much money you can set aside for the move as well as discussing your typical monthly expenses such as utility bills, travel costs, and groceries. Not only will doing so help ease future tensions, but it will also help you create a system for bills that works for both of you.
Some important things you need to discuss regarding finances include your credit scores, outstanding debts, income, and expenses.
Discuss legal matters
Despite the numerous rewarding benefits you get from moving in with your partner, there are always some risks that come along with it. That’s why it is advised that you draft a cohabitation agreement to provide both of you with some financial security and direction for dividing your assets in case an unfortunate event happens that could end your relationship.
Think of this agreement as your breakup plan in which you will discuss in great length the terms of your belongings and what each of you will take in the event of a breakup. This will mainly be items that you will have shared and wanted to split if you separate.
Take inventory of belongings
Taking inventory of your belongings is another important thing you need to consider. Doing so will help you keep track of the things you both have and can include in your new place without duplicating or overwhelming the space.
For instance, start by deciding what you will keep, sell, toss or donate. Go through each other’s furniture pieces, wall decor, and other personal items and determine what will or won’t fit in your new home.
Do a trial run
Before you start moving boxes and talking about finances, you should consider giving living together a trial run to see whether you can actually tolerate each other first. Not only will this help you get used to sharing space with your significant other, but it will also help you understand each other’s lifestyle differences and decide whether you see yourselves living together for years to come.
So, try living together for a week, at a minimum, or a month for a real trial. You don’t have to bring all of your stuff to the new place, but a few key things will help you act as if you are truly living together.
Final thoughts
Whether you have been dating for a while or you are planning to get married to your partner, moving in together is probably one of the most exciting experiences you will go through. However, despite the rewarding benefits that come along with this, it is important that you first consider a few things to have a smooth and enjoyable moving-in experience.