Moving in with your significant other is a huge milestone in every relationship. This step also signifies that both parties are ready to take their relationship to a whole different level: a level that is more intimate and caring. However, living with your partner might come with certain unpleasant surprises, which is why it’s important to do it smartly. So for that reason, here are some helpful tips for moving in with your significant other.
1. Make sure you both want it
Sometimes, a couple will move in for different reasons, and not all of them might be romantic. However, they’re all valid, and the only thing that matters is that you both want it. If one side is more eager than the other, that might actually cause issues after some time. Therefore, when moving in together, make sure you do it because you really want it, even if the reasons aren’t romantic. However, the best way to do it is out of pure love and desire to spend more time together.
2. Discuss everything in advance
If you and your SO don’t spend too much time together prior to moving in, then it’s absolutely crucial to discuss things in advance. This includes things like household chores preferences, paying bills, splitting costs and managing each other’s habits and quirks. If your partner likes playing video games for multiple hours, then it’s important for you to know that, so you’ll be ready once you actually move in together. If possible, create a list of things you consider important in a partner/housemate, so you’ll be able to compare notes and come to some proper conclusions and agreements.
3. Make sure you’re clear on the finances
This is a part of the discussion but it definitely deserves its own paragraph or even two. You need to get any financial issues out in the open well before you move in together. Are you both chipping in equally for the rent and utilities? How about grocery bills or Netflix? Even minute disagreements add up, and while discussing monthly expenses may not sound romantic, it’s essential if you want to prevent serious disagreement in the future. Perhaps the one with a higher income will take care of the majority of the expenses, perhaps one of you just uses the internet more or has to adhere to a specific diet that’s more expensive. Whatever the case, make sure to put it all down and divide the expenses in a way you’re both comfortable with.
4. Organize everything on time
Moving in requires a lot of work, especially if you’re also looking for a place to rent. Therefore, it’s important to be organized and prepared, mainly if you both have numerous belongings. In certain countries, such as The USA, Australia and France (to name only some), moving in is a serious step in a relationship that is often seen equal to marriage. However, moving in is also a big test for a relationship, so it’s important for a couple to communicate effectively and see eye-to-eye regarding multiple things. For example, if you’re moving from Oregon to Washington, then hiring a professional moving company from Seattle such as Mod24 is the right way to take care of everything. Also, before you dive into preparations, make sure to create a to-do list, so you’ll be able to stay on track.
5. Set some rules
Rules might not be funny, but they exist for a reason. And when it comes to living together, rules are there to help you get used to your new life. Things like laundry, cooking, cleaning and grocery shopping are important, therefore, you and your S.O. should come up with rules regarding sharing said chores and other responsibilities. Additionally, you should set some rules regarding visits from friends and family. If you and your partner are different when it comes to introversion/extraversion, it’s important to find a middle ground that will benefit you both.
6. Give each other some space
Each couple, no matter how much in love, needs some time apart. Hence, it’s essential to discuss these things before moving in together. If you prefer spending some time by yourself doing things that only you like, then it’s crucial to communicate that to your partner. Also, your boyfriend should be able to do the same. If he likes spending some time with his buddies, then you should make sure to give him space to do so. One of you may need a crafting corner and/or a gaming desk. Being able to accommodate each other in these situations is crucial for a relationship to be stable and thrive.
7. Talk about decorations and aesthetic preferences
Decoration is the best part when moving in with your partner. Choosing new furniture pieces, painting the walls and planning other decor elements are activities that should be cherry on top, and not your main concern, however, they’re still important and should be discussed. Establishing a common aesthetic will help you make better choices, so make sure to be flexible and ready to negotiate. Visiting furniture stores and flea markets looking for perfect furniture and decor items is also a great way to spend some time together and learn more about each other’s tastes.
8. Build a home together
Yes, that’s exactly what you’re doing just by moving in together, but it’s important to put a bit of an extra effort into it. After all, you’ll be living together, sharing time with each other in a way you really haven’t before. So, in addition to the moving in party (which would be kind of tricky with the pandemic going on anyway), why not start celebrating your moving-in-together day? Establish your own traditions as a couple and your relationship will be all the stronger for it.
Conclusion
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Living with your partner is a great way to strengthen your relationship and grow as a couple. But, moving in also requires effort, mutual understanding and willingness to compromise. So, both you and your significant other should be ready to be flexible and adaptable, in order to have a happy and fulfilling life together.
