Moving into your first home is an exciting milestone and the start of a brand-new chapter in your life.

But that doesn't mean it's easy.

So how can you make moving in as joyous and stress-free as possible?

Here's a handy checklist to help you get started...

One month before...

- Get quotes from removal firms and book a company to help you move your possessions.

- Research your new area so you know about local amenities, issues and anything else you might need to know.

- Order packing materials - your removal company might be able to help.

- Make a full inventory of your possessions, so you can keep track of them when you're moving in.

- Declutter! Use this opportunity to clear out items you don't want or need any more. Removal firms charge by volume, so doing this before you move in could save you money.

- Book the time off work.

- Order any furnishings you need for your new home.

Two weeks before...

- Let utility providers know about your move.

- Complete the Post Office mail redirection form.

- Start packing non-essential items, such as decorations.

- Organise childcare and someone to look after the pets on the day of your move.

One week before...

- Put any essential items such as passports and insurance documents in a safe place, where they can be accessed if you need them.

- Tell your local council and ask for a council tax statement.

- Send out an email or cards to inform your friends and family about your new address.
- Prepare a box of moving day essentials.

- Do as much of your packing as you can, rather than leave it to the last minute.

- Label each box, so you know which ones to unpack first when you arrive.

- Transfer into pots any plants you will be taking.

- Return any borrowed items.

- Find out when you need to collect keys from your estate agent.

The night before...

- Make sure you are fully packed and have carried out a final check of your current home.

- Pack a night bag for your first night in your new property, so you don't have to hunt through boxes looking for essentials at the end of a busy day.

- Charge your phone.

- Pack together a kit of tools such as a sharp knife, so you can easily open boxes.

The big day...

- Make sure you and the removals company know the way to your new home.

- Arrive at your new home before the removals company arrives, so you can guide them in and show them where to put boxes.

- Check for any items damaged during the move before the removal team leaves.

- Make sure that the previous owners haven't left anything.

- Check all keys work in the relevant locks.

- Plug in your electric appliances.

- Don't rush. It will take time for you to unpack everything, so don't feel you have to get everything done on day one.

When you're settling in...

- Take meter readings from the new property and contact utility companies.

- Get to know your neighbours and local area.

Remember, your new home is always a work-in-progress. You can update fixtures and fittings whenever you like, so don't rush into getting it all perfect in your first few days.

Get in touch with our friendly and knowledgeable team for more information.