First-Time Home Buyer’s Moving Guide: From Closing Day to Settling In

Before Closing Day (Planning & Prep)

Understand Closing & Paperwork

• Confirm your closing date and understand that keys and access are only provided on closing day.
• Review all closing documents: deed, mortgage papers, property tax info, home insurance confirmation.
• Schedule a final walkthrough: check that everything promised in the contract is delivered, including repairs and appliances.

Financial Planning for First-Time Buyers

Create a moving budget, factoring in:

• Moving company fees, packing supplies, and insurance
• First-time homeowner expenses: window coverings, minor repairs, tools
• Unexpected costs like storage, temporary accommodations, or last-minute purchases
• Know your mortgage schedule and coordinate funds for closing and moving costs.

Booking Movers & Scheduling

• Hire licensed and insured movers familiar with Ontario’s regulations.
• Book early! First-time buyers often close at peak times (month-end or spring/summer).
• Confirm residential moving services, truck size, moving equipment, and whether movers handle specialty items (pianos, pool tables, fragile electronics).

Utilities & Services

• Schedule transfers: electricity, gas, water, internet, cable.
• Update addresses for: banks, credit cards, insurance, subscriptions, mail forwarding.
• Learn how to set up accounts in your name for the first time, and take note of activation times.

Packing & Supplies

• Start packing non-essential items early.
• Collect packing supplies: boxes, tape, bubble wrap, furniture blankets, markers.
• Begin decluttering: sell, donate, recycle, or discard items.

Moving Binder / Digital Folder

• Track all moving documents: contracts, receipts, inventory sheets, checklists, and emergency contacts.

One Week Before Move (Preparation)

Room-by-Room Packing Checklist

• Kitchen: appliances, non-essential cookware, pantry items
• Living Room: décor, books, electronics, picture frames
• Bedrooms: off-season clothes, décor, extra bedding
• Bathrooms: extra towels, toiletries
• Office/Study: files, electronics, stationery
• Label each box clearly: Room + Contents + Fragile.
• Colour-code boxes by room or family member.

Essentials Box

• Snacks and water
• Toiletries and medications
• Phone chargers, electronics, and keys
• Basic tools: screwdriver, scissors, tape
• Flashlight and first-aid kit

Confirm with Moving Company

• Reconfirm arrival time, truck size, parking, and elevator access if applicable.
• Provide instructions for stairs, narrow roads, or fragile items.

Closing Day

Final Walkthrough

• Inspect every room: appliances, plumbing, doors/windows, heating/cooling systems.
• Take photos for personal records.

Keys & Access

• Collect all keys, garage remotes, mailbox keys, alarm codes, and Wi-Fi router.

First-Time Buyer Tips

• Make a list of immediate tasks: utility activation, changing locks, setting up insurance.
• Review homeowner responsibilities (taxes, insurance, local rules).

Moving Day

Preparation

• Start early: have breakfast and stay hydrated.
• Keep valuables, documents, and jewelry with you.
• Assign family/friends to supervise children and pets.

Directing Movers

• Indicate fragile or specialty items.
• Direct movers to specific rooms for each box/furniture item.
• Use the inventory sheet to track items loaded onto the truck.

Final Home Walkthrough

• Check all closets, cabinets, attic, basement, and garage.
• Turn off lights, lock doors, remove trash, and leave keys where visible.
• Double-check inventory is complete.

Arrival at Your New Home

Initial Setup

• Test utilities: electricity, water, gas, heating/cooling.
• Test appliances: fridge, stove, washer/dryer, dishwasher.
• Open windows for ventilation if needed.

Directing Movers

• Assign rooms for boxes and furniture either physically or with any sticky notes.
• Unpack essential items first: kitchen, bathroom, bedroom.

Damage & Inventory Check

• Compare delivered items to your inventory list.
• Photograph any damage for insurance or claims.

First Night Essentials

• Set up bed and bedding for a comfortable night.
• Unpack bathroom and kitchen essentials.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Check locks, outdoor lighting, and home security.
• Create a safe space for pets or children.

Extras for First-Time Families & Pets

• Safe zones for children and pets during unpacking.
• Keep comfort items handy: toys, bedding, food.
• Plan meals and snacks to reduce stress.

After Moving

Unpacking Strategy

• Prioritize: kitchen, bathrooms, bedrooms.
• Organize closets, drawers, and cabinets.
• Label and arrange storage bins for easy access.

Home Maintenance & Safety

• Check HVAC filters, water heater, plumbing, electrical outlets.
• Create a home maintenance schedule for first few months.
• Keep basic tools accessible for minor repairs.

Community & Utilities

• Introduce yourself to neighbors.
• Confirm garbage/recycling pickup, mail delivery, snow removal.
• Familiarize yourself with local services: schools, hospitals, grocery stores, banks