your to do list around exchange and completion

[redmapleleaves1]

Seems like our chain might be edging towards exchange. I have a long-distance move ahead. What is/was on your to do list around the time of exchange/before contract? So far I have:

(already) - got removal quotes

• cleared loft and decluttered
• eating excess tins/freezer contents

to do

• get insurance for new house (needed before exchange)
• defrost freezer
• sell excess dishwasher or give to household charity
• do floor plan and work out what else might need, and try to get my eye in on models etc before decision fatigue of move
• take cuttings from garden
• write list of things to do, and timeline of what when
• write list of what to take in car on day of move (eg work computer, kettle, toolbox, flammable stuff the removers won't take, duvet and bedding, some clothes, headache tablet and first aid kit, hoover and cleaning stuff, box opener and gaffer tape)
• write instructions for new owners
• keep eye on fb group in new area for details of recommended handypeople

Your tips much appreciated.

Not sure when our move is happening but some things to add from our list:

Sort services eg cancel our current internet (as they aren’t available in our new area) and book installation of the new one

Set up postal service redirect - think this takes 5 working days to come into effect so don’t leave it too late

Increase life insurance as taking out a bigger mortgage

Put aside things we don’t want the movers to pack, or that we are leaving for our buyer

My lists also included:

• Clean Fridge.
• Clean inside kitchen and bathroom cabinets.
• Keep a duster and vacuum handy on moving day so you can dust shelves after books etc are removed, and vacuum floors after movers have left.
• Check paintwork for any scuffs and touch up.
• Tidy up the garden.
• Check around for any last minute repairs needed and book a handyman if necessary.
• If using packers, order a few boxes yourself and pre-pack any items you don't want them to touch / see.
• Collate appliance manuals, spare paint / wallpaper, key to gas meter, any other items you're leaving for the new owners and put them in a cupboard clearly marked 'Leave' so they don't get packed.
• Label any items of furniture, curtains etc. that you are leaving behind.
• Charge up phones.
• Arrange broadband and TV setup (you can always amend the date later if you need to).
• Remember to take meter readings on last day, and notify utilities as soon as you've exchanged.
• List organisations to notify of new address; sort change to electoral roll, council tax etc.
• Redirect mail.

Thank you both so much. Really helpful to have your lists too. I'd better get off MN and get down to it.