Living with a significant other and building a home together is a wonderful milestone, but it can also come with stress. Here are a few tips for couples to help make moving in together go smoothly and set you on the right path.
Take Inventory of Belongings
The one thing about moving: it’s all about the stuff! And when you’re moving in with your partner, there’s bound to be lots of stuff. So before you start packing boxes, take inventory and make a list of your belongings. The inventory will make it easier to decide what to pack with you, as well as guarantee you don’t forget anything during the big move.
But the biggest reason you’ll want to take inventory? To keep track of where there are duplicate items, make note of furniture sizes, and get a clear picture of what your new home together still needs.
Start Downsizing
After taking inventory, it’s time to start downsizing. There’s plenty you’re going to want to bring with you to your shared space, but it’s also likely there won’t be enough space for everything in your home. Especially not two blenders.
This part of the process can be high with emotions, so start with items that are worn down or broken and throw those away. Next, move on to items you and your partner have duplicates of. You can discuss which one should be kept (like the newer blender rather than the old run-down one) and which should be donated or tossed.
Again, this part of the process can be difficult for a lot of people. But try hard not to delay getting rid of items. This is a part that’s inevitable, and it’ll be a waste of money to pay movers to move stuff you ultimately don’t keep. Letting go of stuff can be painful, but it can also be liberating. Think of it as making room for a new life with your partner!
Compromise
This is a key component of not only moving in together but relationships in general. Learning to compromise is necessary when it comes to living in a shared space. And that’s really critical: the home being a shared space. It shouldn’t feel or look like it belongs to just one of you.
Whether it’s deciding what items to keep or what new décor items you’ll buy together, it’s important to talk things through. If your partner feels strongly about keeping their doll collection in the house, do your best to see their side of things before deciding what to do.
Make Use of Self Storage
The good news? You don’t have to toss, donate, or sell everything that doesn’t fit into your shared space. Rent a self-storage unit and keep your stuff in there!
You can store items that would have a place in the future or even “maybe” items that you two agree on, like a large dresser that isn’t going to fit in your shared space now but will be perfect for your next home. Self-storage is also perfect for storing seasonal décor, extra clothing, and sentimental items you’re not ready to give up. Especially if your long-term goal is to start a family or upgrade to a bigger home, you’ll likely have more space for lots of stuff in the future. Until then though, a self-storage unit can come in handy!
Know it Takes Time to Adjust
After living alone, with family, or even roommates, transitioning to living with your partner is a big change. It will take time to get used to your new home, differing schedules, new surroundings, and all your blended living items. This is a process that, while stressful, is also fun and exciting! Remember that as you adjust together, you’ll likely run into some pitfalls, so be open, honest, and kind as you work things out.
At Bay Street Storage, our storage units are spacious, secure, and affordable.
Moving in? We Can Help You Store the Extra Stuff
Ready to begin your journey? Bay Street Storage is here to help you store your extra stuff! No matter if it’s a few duplicate belongings or the contents of your entire apartment, our storage units are spacious, secure, and affordable. We have two convenient locations in Post Falls for you to choose from, and we’ve got all your storage needs covered. We’re here to make your storage experience easy. If you need any help, let us know!
