First time home buyer checklist: 12 tips for a successful move

With the recent launch of the CA Dream for All program, we’ve been speaking to dozens of first time home buyers about their journey into their new homes. Moving into your first home can feel exciting, but also overwhelming. If you’re in the process of preparing to purchase your first home, or if you’re already well-underway, you’re likely experiencing the mental, physical and financial stress that comes along with the process. 

Good news is, you’ve come to the right place. Not only is Meathead Movers experts at moving furniture, but we have a team of seasoned professionals who will hold your hand through the entire process. Say goodbye to that mental and physical stress, and say hello to your official first time home buyer moving checklist.

Before we get started with the details, start planning your move as soon as possible. Create a timeline and to-do list to keep yourself organized. Meathead Movers offers a full moving game plan to kick off your relocation journey.

Let’s get packing!

1. Start by packing items you don’t use often, such as seasonal clothes, decorative items, or books. Then, make a list of the items you need to pack, and check them off as you go. This will help you stay organized and ensure you don’t forget anything important.
2. Use sturdy boxes in various sizes, packing paper, bubble wrap, and packing tape to protect your items during transport.
3. Focus on packing one room at a time, and label each box with the room it belongs in.
4. Pack heavy items at the bottom. This will help prevent damage to your items as well as the box itself.
   
5. Clearly label each box with its contents, destination room, and whether it’s fragile. This will help  know where to place each box and help you find what you need when unpacking.
6. Pack a box with essential items you’ll need on your first night in your new home, such as toiletries, a change of clothes, bedding, and any important documents.

Does this sound a little overwhelming? How about you just call the professionals. Meathead Packers offers three different packing bundles depending on the size of your current home and the items you’d like help packing. Our Relocation Specialists can help set up a packing and unpacking service whenever you’re ready.

Let’s get moving!

1. Disassemble large furniture such as beds, desks, and bookcases to make them easier to move. Keep all the screws, bolts, and other hardware in labeled plastic bags, so you don’t lose them. If you do decide to hire Meathead Movers, don’t worry about a thing! We’ll disassemble and reassemble all of your furniture on move day.
2. Use moving blankets or bubble wrap to protect your furniture during transport. Wrap each item carefully and secure it with packing tape.
3. Measure the dimensions of your furniture and the doorways and hallways in your new home to ensure that everything will fit. If something won’t fit, consider disassembling it or removing doors and hinges to create more space.
4. Use dollies or hand trucks to move heavy furniture such as dressers and refrigerators. This will make the process easier on your back and prevent damage to your furniture.
5. When lifting heavy items, use proper lifting techniques to avoid injury. Bend at the knees, keep your back straight, and use your legs to lift the item.
6. Make sure your furniture is properly secured in the moving truck to prevent it from shifting during transport.

Sounds like a heavy workload, right? Well, lucky for you – Meathead Movers can help you with every single one of the tasks listed above. We have been moving homes daily for more than 25 years, so you can trust that our experience and safety protocols are the best in the business. We know the ins and outs of any moving situation and want to help anyway we can. We even provide payment plans for qualified clients. Don’t let your first home be so stressful and hire California’s favorite moving company today!