What to Consider Before Moving to a Bigger Home

Published: November 01, 2024

Moving into a bigger home can be an exciting step, but it’s essential to be prepared for the changes and challenges that come with it. Whether you’re upgrading for more space or looking for a better neighborhood, understanding what to expect beforehand can make the transition smoother. Here are some key things to consider before making the big move. 

Budget for Increased Costs

The first thing to consider is how moving into a larger home will impact your finances. A bigger house means higher expenses in several areas:

• Mortgage or Rent: If you’re upgrading, expect a higher monthly mortgage or rent payment.
• Utilities: With more square footage, heating, cooling, and electricity costs will likely increase.
• Maintenance: Yard work, roof repairs, and general maintenance costs will be higher in a larger home.

It’s crucial to reassess your budget and ensure you’re financially ready for these added costs.

Plan for More Furniture and Decor

A bigger home comes with more rooms to furnish, which can quickly add up in cost. If you’re moving from a smaller home, you may not have enough furniture to fill the extra space, and it’s important to plan for this ahead of time. Start by prioritizing which rooms need furnishing right away and which can wait. Consider creating a furnishing budget so you can gradually fill your new home without overspending.

Energy Efficiency Concerns

Larger homes often use more energy, but you can mitigate some of these costs by paying attention to energy efficiency. When moving into your new house, take stock of the following:

• Insulation: Ensure that the home is properly insulated to keep heating and cooling costs down.
• Windows and Doors: Check for drafts and consider upgrading to energy-efficient models if needed.
• Lighting: Switch to energy-efficient LED bulbs to reduce electricity usage.

These small adjustments can make a significant difference in long-term energy savings.

More Space Means More Cleaning

One of the less glamorous aspects of moving into a bigger house is the additional cleaning required. With more rooms and square footage comes more surfaces to dust, more floors to vacuum, and more bathrooms to scrub. It’s a good idea to create a cleaning schedule. 

Evaluate Your Storage Needs

With more space comes the temptation to accumulate more things. However, it’s wise to stay organized from the beginning. Consider the storage options your new home offers, such as closets, basements, or attics. Invest in shelves, bins, and other organizing tools to keep everything tidy. Try not to fill up the space with clutter, and instead, focus on keeping your new home functional and organized.

Get to Know the Neighborhood

If you’re moving to a new area, take some time to learn about your neighborhood. Explore the local amenities, like grocery stores, parks, and restaurants, so you feel more at home once you move in. Check out the schools if you have children, and look into local community activities to help you settle in and meet your new neighbors. Getting familiar with the area will make your transition feel seamless.

Don’t Forget About Moving

Finally, consider the logistics of moving into a larger home. Bigger homes often mean more furniture, belongings, and moving costs. Start planning early, and book moving services well in advance to help make the process smoother. This is especially important if you have large furniture or valuable items that need extra care during the move. Planning ahead will ensure everything arrives safely in your new space.

Moving to a bigger house offers many opportunities for comfort and growth, but it’s important to be prepared for the added responsibilities and costs. Budgeting carefully, planning for increased space needs, and staying organized can make the move to your new home rewarding.

For more information or help with the move, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Southwest Florida or call (941) 759-5937.