The first 30 days of living in a new property and how to settle in quickly

Moving into a new property is an exciting yet sometimes overwhelming experience. Whether you’ve just bought a house, signed a lease on a flat, or moved into a new build, the first 30 days are key to making it feel like home according to top estate agents in Leyton. Here’s a detailed guide to help you settle in quickly and comfortably during your first month.

Week 1: Unpacking and Getting Organised

The first week is all about turning your new space into a functional living environment. Here’s how to get started:

1. Prioritise Your Unpacking

Unpacking can seem daunting, but breaking it into manageable steps makes it easier. Focus on setting up essential areas first:

• The Bedroom: Your new home will feel more comfortable if you have a cosy place to sleep. Start by assembling your bed, unpacking your bedding, and setting up nightstands.
• The Kitchen: Unpack the basics for cooking and dining. Get your utensils, pots, pans, and dinnerware out, and fill the cupboards with everyday items. A functional kitchen means you won’t have to rely on takeaways.
• The Bathroom: Unpack toiletries, towels, and other essentials. Put up shower curtains, organise bathroom storage, and place toiletries where you can easily access them.

2. Arrange Essential Services

Make sure your essential utilities and services are set up promptly. This might include:

• Electricity and Gas: Take metre readings upon arrival and set up accounts with utility providers.
• Internet and TV: Contact your provider for a smooth connection. Consider arranging installation ahead of time to avoid delays.
• Council Tax: Register with the local council to set up your council tax account if it hasn’t been arranged yet.

3. Familiarise Yourself with the Property

Take a tour of your new home and identify important features, such as:

• Utility Shutoffs: Locate the fuse box, water shutoff valve, and gas valve so you know where they are in case of an emergency.
• Appliances: Check all appliances, such as the boiler, oven, and washing machine, to ensure they are in good working order.

Week 2: Personalising Your Space

Now that the essentials are in place, it’s time to make your new property feel more like home.

1. Add Personal Touches

Decorating and adding personal items can quickly transform a new property into a welcoming environment:

• Hang Photos and Art: Put up framed pictures, art, or mirrors to add character to the walls. This reflects your personality and fills empty spaces, making the property feel more lived-in.
• Soft Furnishings: Introduce your favourite cushions, throws, and rugs to create a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
• Lighting: Add lamps or soft lighting to different rooms to create warmth. Good lighting makes an unfamiliar space feel more comfortable.

2. Get Your Storage Sorted

Organising your belongings early on helps prevent clutter. Unpack clothes, books, and kitchenware into their designated places. Consider investing in shelving units, organisers, and storage boxes to keep things tidy. Having an organised space will make it easier to navigate and use effectively.

Week 3: Exploring the Local Area

Getting to know your new neighbourhood is key to feeling at home. Here’s how to start building a connection with your surroundings:

1. Go for a Walk Around the Neighbourhood

Take time to explore the local area on foot. Find your nearest supermarket, pharmacy, post office, and other essential services. Discover nearby parks, cafes, and shops that you might enjoy. Walking around helps you get your bearings and familiarise yourself with the layout.

2. Introduce Yourself to the Neighbours

If you feel comfortable, introduce yourself to your new neighbours. A friendly chat can go a long way in creating a sense of community. They can also provide valuable information about the area, such as the best places to eat, shop, or relax.

3. Register with Local Services

If you haven’t already, this is a good time to register with local services:

• GP Surgery: Find your nearest NHS doctor’s surgery and register as a new patient.
• Schools: If you have children, make sure to enrol them in local schools and arrange any necessary paperwork.

Week 4: Establishing Routines and Settling In

By the fourth week, you should start to feel more settled. Now is the time to establish routines and create a lifestyle that suits you in your new home.

1. Establish Daily Routines

Find something you can start doing with your space. Design morning and evening rituals, like brewing coffee in the kitchen or just hanging out in that cosy corner. Routines can give that sense of stability, making you feel more balanced.

2. Explore Hobbies in Your New Space

Now that you have got used to your new place, take it to be your extended room and see how it can help you pursue your hobbies. Create a reading nook, a gardening corner, or a workout space. What you love to do in your new place, with time, will make it your home.

Beyond the First Month: Making It Home

After a month has passed, you most likely already start feeling much more at ease and indeed add little touches of your personality to your new place, start to explore the neighbourhood, find ways to organise your routines, etc. It takes time to turn a house into a home, and every small step makes sense.

Final Tips for Settling in Quickly:

• Take It One Day at a Time: Don’t get yourself overwhelmed thinking everything has to be perfect overnight; settlement takes time.
• Be Patient: Moving to a new environment can be stressful, therefore, do not rush into it; wait for some time to settle and build up a space that will eventually feel like home.

By using this process, settling into your new property should be easy and simple. One month will go by in a hurry; your new space will feel much less new and more like your own sanctuary by the end of those first 30 days.