Moving to a new house is hard work. You can start searching years before you actually move, spending time looking for the perfect home for you and your family. You prepare a list of things you need from a house, and locations that you prefer. It can take years of careful saving to get a deposit together, and getting a mortgage can be a nightmare. Then, when it comes to moving, it can take weeks to get all of your boxes packed and moved to your new home. Then, even when you are in, you’ve still got to tell everyone about your change of address, unpack, find new local conveniences and deal with any maintenance issues before you even think about redecorating and getting the house exactly how you want it. But when you’ve worked so hard to prepare for your move you want to feel at home as soon as you get there. Even without fully redecorating or house-building your own place, you can make your new house feel like home.
Paint
Redecorating can cost a fortune and take months. This may not be possible straight away after a move. But, you could paint. A coat of paint on your walls can make the room look cleaner and brighter and add your stamp. It’s quick, easy and much less expensive than fully redecorating. If possible get in and paint the main rooms or any areas you really want to change before you move any of your big furniture in.
Get Rid of the Boxes
A house is never going to feel like a home when there are boxes everywhere. Many of us aren’t lucky enough to take a few weeks off work to give ourselves time to move comprehensively, and you might find yourself having to do small amounts around your other commitments. If this is the case, move all of your boxes to a room you don’t use as much, and unpack the rooms you spend the most time in first. This will help you settle and relax.
Go Shopping
If you are on a budget after the move, you may not be able to afford to buy big home items. But, even buying some new soft furnishings, curtains, a rug or some bedding can help to make your new house feel like a home, and make you feel better after a tough few weeks. If money is really tight, trying some crafts is another option.
Change the Smell
Have you ever noticed that when you walk into someone’s home, it has their smell? If you move into a new build or a house that’s been empty for a long time, you may find the smell is little unpleasant. Changing this is a great way to help you feel more settled. Open the windows, thoroughly hoover the rooms to lift any dust that’s settled and light some scented candles or a diffuser. Cooking some gorgeous food will help too.
It can take time to feel at home in your new house, but it’s common when you first move. Try these things to make your new house feel homely as soon as possible.
