Moving home at Christmas

You’ve found your dream home, your mortgage is approved and your solicitor calls with news of your December completion date.  But instead of feeling excited, you wonder just how you are going to move home and organise Christmas all at the same time.

In December 2017 more than 60,000 first-time buyer and home-mover mortgages were completed.  That’s around eight per cent of all house moves each year taking place in the run up to Christmas.  NHBC, the UK’s leading warranty provider for new homes, is offering all home movers some tips to make your move this December less daunting:

1. Tell Santa

If you are moving home with children your top priority will be to let Santa know.  The Post Office will give you his address, and while you’re there, organise for your post to be redirected.  Also, pop your new address details into your Christmas cards, saving you money on postage.

2. Christmas presents

Get ahead by buying and wrapping all your presents before you move and store them at a friend’s house.  Don’t forget to add an extra gift just for them as a thank you!

3. Countdown to moving day

Keep your children involved by using an advent calendar as a countdown to moving day. 

4. Packing

Moving in December doesn’t mean you have to forget all about feeling festive.  Clearly label your Christmas decoration packing boxes.  Ask the removal company to put the boxes in the bathroom as this will make them easy to find so you can prioritise decorating your new home.

5. Decorating your new home

You don’t need to make your house look like Santa’s Grotto to feel Christmassy.  A few glittery touches will make Christmas in your new home one to remember.  Focus your efforts on the spaces where you will spend most time – a family room, or perhaps the kitchen-diner.  If you don’t have time to decorate a tree, think about wrapping a garland around the banister and hang fairy lights over the fireplace.

6. The scent of Christmas

There’s nothing like the smell of Christmas to get you in the festive spirit.  Consider lighting candles with the scent of cinnamon, mulled spices and oranges to create a warm and cosy feeling.

7. Meet the neighbours

Now you’ve moved in and got some decorations up, it’s the perfect time to meet your new neighbours.  Invite them round for some mulled wine and mince pies; you can ask them for tips on things to do in your local area too!

Christmas is traditionally a time when family and friends get together, so above all, just enjoy the day because the unpacking can wait!