So, you’re moving to London? Exciting times! 🎉 London is a city bursting with opportunities, endless coffee shops, late-night eats, and dreamy flats ☕🌮 But let’s be honest—getting settled in a new place can feel like a lot. 😅 Don’t worry though, we’ve got you covered with the ultimate checklist to keep things smooth, stress-free, and maybe even a little fun 🏙️✨

1. Before You Move

Let’s get real...prepping for a move is half the battle. Here's what you’ll need to do before the big day:

• Sort Out Your Rental Details
  • Double-check your tenancy agreement
  • Confirm the move-in date and key collection date and time (because you do not want to get there and be stuck outside with all your boxes 🔑📦)
  • Ask about utility setup - some landlords include it, some don’t
• Pack Like a Pro
  • Essentials Bag: Think chargers, toiletries🧴, an outfit or two 👗, snacks 🍫 (because unpacking hungry = chaos)
  • Label Boxes: Trust us, future you will thank you when you’re looking for your kettle on moving in day! ☕ 🔎
• Book the Big Stuff
  • Moving van? Check ✅🚚
  • Handy friends with cars? Bribe them with pizza 🍕
• Update Your Info Let your bank, work, and anyone else important know your new address 🏦🏠

2. When You Arrive

You’ve made it! 🙌 Now let’s turn your flat into a home and get your new life started.

• Utilities & Internet
  • Set up your utilities (electricity ⚡, gas 🔥, water 💧) if it’s not already done
  • Get your Wi-Fi sorted ASAP - Netflix waits for no one 🍿📱
• Council Tax This is a big one! Register with the council for your tax band. It’s boring but necessary 🏛️
• GP Registration Find your nearest GP and register. Health is wealth! 🏥🩺
• Do a walkthrough Check for any damage, weird smells, or broken appliances, take photos and report it immediately. Protect that deposit! 🔧💰
• Unpack Strategically Start with your bedroom - getting your bed set up first makes it feel like home right away 🛏️ 💤

3. The First Few Days

Now it’s time to get out there and soak in your new neighbourhood! 🌆

• Explore the area
  • Find your local coffee shop (where you’ll probably become a regular) ☕
  • Scope out nearby food stores , gyms, walking routes and parks 🛒🏋️‍♀️🌳
• Meet the Neighbours A quick “hello” 👋 in the hallway can lead to lifesaving moments later, like when you lock yourself out 🚪🔑 It can also be fun to bring something like a sweet treat or bottle of bubbles to all share and gather around on your first evening.
• Stock Up on Essentials
  • Toilet paper, hand soap, cleaning supplies —don’t forget the boring-but-important stuff 🧻🧽
  • Grocery staples like fruit, veg, cheese, milk, pasta, and snacks are a must 🧀🥖🍎
• Decorate Your Space
  • Fairy lights? Yes ✨
  • Plants? Yes 🌿
  • Cute rugs? Yes, yes, and yes. The faster you personalise, the faster it feels like home 💕🫶
• Think about a Trial Commute to Work Take a look at some different routes and maybe even try some out ✨ That way, your first day won't be a big stress.

4. What to Buy for Your Flat

Moving to London can be pricey 💸, so let’s focus on what you really need:

• Kitchen Basics
  • A kettle, pans, utensils, plates and bowls, and mugs 🍳🍴
• Cleaning Supplies
  • Multi-purpose spray, sponges, bin bags —don’t wait until the mess piles up 🧽🗑️
• Cozy Must-Haves
  • Throw blankets, pillows, and a diffuser to keep it smelling delicious 🫶🌸
• Storage Solutions
  • Think baskets, over-the-door hooks (sticky ones that won't damage the paint), and under-bed boxes to hide some of the mess 🛏️🧺🚪

5. Take your time to settle in

London can be a lot and it can feel overwhelming. Be kind to yourself and don't rush to think you have to figure everything out all at once. For the first few weeks you're bound to feel a bit out of sorts but you'll soon settle into the rhythm ✨

At HOMEE, we’re here to take the stress out of finding the perfect home and housemates, so you can focus on living your best life 🌟 Let’s make this move the start of an incredible journey.