You can start your tidying project by first getting rid of the expired foodstuff in both the cupboards and refrigerator before moving. After you have emptied by the refrigerator and cupboards, you can then move on to cleaning and wiping the refrigerator’s compartment one at a time.

Similarly, you can dust and wipe out cupboards before sweeping and mopping the floors. When you clean, try using a detergent that would not only clean effectively but one that would fill the room with a clean and fresh scent. If you have carpeted floors, try investing in some carpet cleaning agent before you run the vacuum.

A few days before the actual moving day you can write down the condition of the items that you met in the apartment when you moved in. The landlord would have his own inspection form and would also be documenting the aforementioned information as well.

When you have identified the damages etc. let your landlord know by inviting him over so that the both of you can perform a walk-through, identifying the problems along the way. If there were any items broken by you and your family, you can either volunteer to pay to have it fixed or perhaps you may suggest that he deducts some of repair fees from your security deposit.

Bear in mind that once your old home passes the landlord’s inspection it is highly suggested that you also tidy up and clean the new home as well even before moving in.

One of the first things that you should do when viewing your prospective new home is to check the light switches and outlets to see if there are any problems with them. You really do not have to be an
electrician to know that hanging wires and flickering mean there is electrical problems somewhere. You should also check out the windows in every aspect of the house just to ensure that they are all in working condition. Make sure that they open and close without much pulling and tugging; also make sure that they are not painted shut.

Next, be on the look out for ceiling stains as it usually indicates that there is a water leak somewhere. Make sure that the landlord or homeowner is able to locate the leak and rectify the problem long before you move in. A water leak is also very unsightly so if your landlord is able to paint or replace the ceiling then by all means allow him to do so.

Leaks can also lead to molding which can start on your ceiling and end up on your walls. In addition to the molding are bloated walls and not to mention the unpleasant musty odor. This is a huge red flag and you should perhaps think about renting or moving elsewhere since this problem usually does not get rectified overnight or even in a few months. Musty odors from molds can also lead to medical problems, those of which you really do not need to deal with. Moving companies would also tell you not to ignore the smell of bleach or any other cleaning agents as soon as you hit the door of your home since this indicates that the landlord may be trying to mask an offensive smell.

Finally, as you do your inspection, if you see one insect crawling around, this could mean that there are more around. Rodents and bedbugs can also make your new life very uncomfortable, more so when they start going into your foodstuff and clothing. Have the landlord call in a professional pest control company to ensure that you do not have an insect or rodent infestation.

And just like some adults, children who have to say goodbye to their old neighborhood may soon be overwhelmed with the feeling of sadness and depression. Moving experts would tell you that moving long-distance with your kids is even more painful especially if the climate is a bit different to what they are accustomed. One way in which you can help your children accept the reality of moving is by indulging them in the moving preparation the moment you decide to move.

You can get them involved by allowing them to help you pack and perhaps you can even talk about the positive aspects of the move. For instance if your child loves to swim and your new home is situated mere minutes from a swimming pool, then this is one of the highlights of the new place that you should be discussing with your child. Let him know about the new friends he would be meeting and tap in to his insecurities and alleviate them. Remember too that the more you get excited about moving the more the children would feed off of your excitement.

Most of all be honest with your children and let them know the reasons behind the move. So if your reason for moving is to accept a job offer explain every detail of that to the children. Let them know how vital it is for you to move and accept the job; above all let them know how they can benefit from it. Next allow your children some time to spend with their soon-to-be-old friends as much as possible even if you have to pull together a farewell party for them. When moving day arrives, make sure that you have the handheld games and toys for the children to occupy them as they journey to the new location.

After arriving at the new place it would be wise to keep a close eye on your children to see that they are coping well with the move. And if the children opt to have their room decorated similar to their old one then allow them to do so. Sleeping in familiar surroundings could have a positive impact on the children; they would definitely start warming up to the idea of living in a new space.