There comes a time in all relationships where moving in together becomes a regular discussion. It can certainly be daunting, especially if you haven’t lived with a significant other in the past. As experts in property, we’ve pretty much seen it all so we’ve compiled our top tips for moving in together for the very first time to help you along the way!
1. Enjoy it!
This is probably one of the biggest pieces of advice we can offer. Moving can be stressful however when you’re moving in together for the first time, it is a world of excitement and opportunity. Don’t let the stress overshadow this, enjoy every moment of the move…including eating a takeaway on the floor on your first night (we’ve all been there!).
2. Personal space
It’s perfectly natural to want a bit of time on your own – just because you’re living with the person you love it doesn’t mean you have to be around them 24/7. Treat yourself to a soak in the bath or take some time to read a book in silence, you’ll both like different things and that is absolutely normal.
3. Compromise
Okay, this is a biggie. As with all relationships, compromise is extremely important. When you’ve been living on your own or with your parents for a while, you have probably been able to do what you want when you want, this certainly changes when you move in together. New responsibilities take priority and you’ve got to have a bit of give and take to allow for a harmonious living environment.
4. Mixing styles
Style and home décor is an extremely personal thing, what one of you loves, the other might loathe. Try to mix your styles together to make a complementary space where you’ll both feel at home – there’s nothing worse than living somewhere that you don’t feel comfortable. If it’s your first time living away from home then bringing some of your furniture with you will help in making it feel a touch homelier!
5. Joint contracts
Make sure that your bills and rent are in both of your names. Having contracts in one name could make the other feel a bit left out – moving in together means joint responsibilities and whilst it can be a bit daunting, it is all part of the process!
We hope these 5 quick tips make moving in together a little less stressful, it can be a nerve-racking time if you haven’t lived with someone before. Remember that it’s something you should enjoy every second of, rather than feeling the pressure. It’s important to be thinking about the other person in your relationship rather than just how you feel, making a mutual space yet having places you can go for a bit of ‘me-time’ is invaluable.
Sources: Apartment image Photo by Breather
