Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or settling into a new build, changing homes is always a major milestone. It can seem overwhelming, but with a little planning and forethought, it doesn’t have to be.
At Geranium, we understand how important this moment is for our homeowners. That’s why we pulled together our best advice to help make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Start Early, Stay Ahead
The earlier you begin preparing for your move, the more manageable it becomes.
Ideally, you’ll want to start about six to eight weeks before your moving day.
Begin by booking your professional movers or moving truck well in advance, especially if you’re moving during peak season.
Next, create a moving binder or digital folder to keep all of your checklists, quotes, receipts, and schedules organized and in one place.
After that, it’s time to start sorting through each room to determine what to keep, donate, or discard. This is a big one and can easily begin to feel overwhelming, so we recommend going one room at a time and taking plenty of breaks.
Make lists right from the start.
Declutter with Purpose
Moving is the perfect opportunity to lighten your load. Not only does it reduce costs, but it also helps you start fresh. Once unused items are cleared out, they’re rarely missed, and you’ll wonder why you saved them for so long.
Use the four-box method for each room: one box for items to keep, one to donate, one to sell, and one to toss. Local options like Habitat for Humanity ReStores, Goodwill, or other community donation centres make it easy to give your unwanted items a second life. Not only is this great for the environment, it also creates jobs and opportunities for lower income families.
Declutter and donate before you start packing.
Packing Smartly
Packing non-essential items early on helps avoid last-minute chaos.
Carefully labelling your boxes on the top and on the side is essential. It helps the movers know where to put them and you will appreciate it once you’re in the new house and beginning to unpack and organize. If there are some items you know you’ll need right away, consider packing them last and bringing them to the new house yourself. That way they won’t end up buried under a mountain of other boxes.
Label boxes clearly for easy unpacking.
Stay on Track with a Checklist
A detailed checklist is the first step toward staying organized.
Be sure to:
• Forward your mail through Canada Post
• Update your address with your bank, credit card companies, and insurance providers
• Set up or transfer utility services like hydro, gas, internet, and water
• Notify your employer, doctor, and school board of your address change
• Update your driver’s license and health card through ServiceOntario
• Update your information with any monthly subscriptions, like Netflix.
Your checklist will keep you organized.
Saying Goodbye Matters Too
Leaving a home behind can be emotional, especially if you’ve built strong memories there. Taking a few moments to reflect, snap a few final photos, or host a simple farewell dinner can bring a sense of closure. These gestures can help you embrace the move with a fresh perspective and open heart.
Take some time to say good-bye to your old home.
Make Your New House Feel Like Home
Once you’ve arrived, resist the urge to unpack everything in one day. Take some time to walk through your new space and get a feel for each room. Begin with the essentials and work your way through the house at a comfortable pace. Unpack key areas like the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom first. If possible, try to set up furniture in the right rooms to avoid unnecessary heavy lifting later. Add simple comforts like fresh bedding, window coverings, and familiar items that make your space feel lived in right away.
Unpack essentials first, the rest can wait.
Helping Your Pet Feel at Home
Moving is a big change for pets, too. To make the transition easier, try to maintain their usual routine by keeping regular feeding, walking, and playtimes. Set up their bed, food and water bowls and a few favourite toys as soon as you arrive, ideally in a quiet corner away from the main unpacking zone.
On moving day, it can be helpful to leave pets with a friend or sitter to keep them calm and safe. Once you’re in your new home, set aside some time to explore the neighbourhood together.
Help pets settle into their new space.
Set Up for Success
Right after a move is the ideal time to set good habits. Whether it’s creating a designated spot for your keys, establishing a daily routine, or finally setting up that organized mudroom you’ve always wanted, small steps go a long way. Think about how you want your home to function and grow with you, instead and out, and don’t overlook your backyard’s potential.
Create good habits in your new home, like using this Mudroom at Midhurst Valley.
Get to Know Your Neighbourhood
Part of settling in means exploring your new surroundings. Take a walk around the block, locate nearby parks, grocery stores, and community centres. If you have children, visit local schools and playgrounds to get a feel for your new community. Introducing yourself to neighbours, even with a friendly wave, can go a long way toward helping you feel connected.
Ask your neighbours questions, they’ll be glad to help
Moving Into a Geranium Home?
We’re here at every step of your homeownership journey. Our goal is to help you feel confident, excited, and fully supported as you start this next chapter.
Here’s to a smooth move and a home you’ll love for years to come.
If you’re still searching for your next move, we invite you to discover Geranium communities, where thoughtful design meets everyday livability. Whether it’s the lakefront charm of Courts of King’s Bay near Port Perry, the elevated family lifestyle at Midhurst Valley near Barrie, the refined elegance of Allegro in Aurora, or the spacious luxury of Clarehaven Estates with its expansive lots in north Pickering, Geranium has the perfect neighbourhood to grow along with your family.
Explore what’s new and what’s next at geranium.com
Welcoming new homeowners to Midhurst Valley.