Please talk me through what I need to do

[Mindexplode]

First time buying and selling at same time

We have had offer accepted on house we want to move into and have sold ours

We have instructed solicitors and I have kicked things off with the bank, still waiting to hear that is all ok but have told it should be (small complications but should all be covered)

I guess we need a removal company but when do we find out what date we are moving - really small chain as our future house in empty and we have a cash buyer.

Also - electrical stuff we are not taking - I guess we offer to new man and if he doesn't want it we get rid but when - do we not have a cooker/ fridge freezer for a few days?

WE have started to go through loft and garage and will be moving onto other stuff - trying to convince DH to do a car boot, otherwise it will be freecycle, charity shop etc.

What have I missed? What do I need to know about moving with cats and small children? Do I need to set up a post redirection?

TIA

[Mindexplode]

anyone?

[CityDweller]

You'll start getting an idea of completion dates once you're further down the conveyancing process. Removals can usually be booked with relatively short notice. Meanwhile, get a bunch of companies round to quote and decide who you'd like to use. Some companies will offer a small 'cancellation insurance' charge so that you can book them in for expected completion date and then rearrange at short notice without getting charged.

Offer electrical stuff (white goods) to buyer (this can be done via agent or solicitor and he wants to buy them the details get added to the contract). If he doesn't want them, you can arrange collection by council or sometimes charities will take them (e.g. women's refuge). You should be able to arrange collection on the day of your move. I'd be amazed if he didn't want the cooker - is it not built-in??

Yes, set up post-redirection (can do online).

No idea about moving with small children. Depends how small, I guess. Could they stay with friends or family for the day of the move? When/if we move, I expect we'll just have DD (2.5) along with us, but will mean that only one of DH or I will actually be able to do useful stuff like unpacking, instructing movers, etc.

My one piece of advice is that if you can afford it, pay for the movers to pack everything up for you. I've moved many, many, many times (including to different countries) and the stress-reduction of having someone else pack is worth the extra cost. Especially if you have kids/ pets.

Good luck!

[eurochick]

A post redirection is well worth it.

If you need appliances, a lot of places do 24 or 48 hr delivery, so just order for when you arrive once you have a date.

[Mindexplode]

Thanks for your replies

DC are 6 so will be under feet if school hoildays, hoping someone might take them for the day.

our fridge and cooker is free standing, we are moving into somewhere where they are built in so no need to take them

If we get removal men in can we still start packing stuff now, it might be easier to get stuff packed as we sort - will they still move and pack remaining items?

[Mindexplode]

a cattery is a good idea, I have three cats so a big ask for friends or family.
They have never been in a cattery before, but all jabs are up to date so I guess it won't be a problem?

[Mindexplode]

thanks started the mass sort out today

car boot planned in a couple of weeks

just started the negotiations with dh and dc about getting rid of stuff, dh seems particularly upset about getting rid of dc outside stuff they have grown out off

[QuiteLikely5]

Re your completion date you are free to suggest a date to your solicitor at any time. Solicitor will check this date with other parties.

You will get a fixtures and fittings list. You tick all of the things included in the sale. Tick those you wish to leave otherwise the guy might be annoyed if you leave them without telling him. I like my own things and don't want the hassle of moving out other people's cast offs.

Clear out or throw out all your junk. Less to pack and unpack.