As the UK edges out of the lockdown, many individuals will be seeking a new home. Are you in the position of finding a new home after COVID-19? Whether you have to move for financial reasons, or you just want a change after being cooped up in the same space for so long, finding a new home is an exhilarating yet challenging experience.
Home sales have now resumed, and estate agencies are starting to restart their operations, meaning that now could be the right time to start your search.
If you’re trying to find a new home during these challenging times, then read on to find out everything that you need to look out for to find the perfect, safe home for you and your family.
Decluttering
We are getting inquiries from those who want to move house but know that they ideally need to declutter beforehand. It’s so true that the simplifying needs to be done in advance of any move to reduce the stress (and cost) of the actual move. And who doesn’t want to move with the fresh start and energy that decluttering can provide? But it can seem so overwhelming. And if you’re finding a new home after COVID-19, what to do with donations when the charity shops are shut? Shops are due to open in July and will follow strict guidelines so that you and your donations are safe. As an alternative, some charities are offering drive through donation drop offs or are picking up. Charities still need quality donations so rest assured they still want your stuff.
When it comes to actually decluttering, the best advice is to break things down into bite sized chunks. Pledge to focus on one room at a time and zone that room out into contained spaces. So maybe you’ll start with your bedroom. On day 1, you’ll declutter your bedside tables, the next your chest of drawers and the day after, the drawers under your bed. And so on…
A deep clean
A clean home is vital, as your new home needs to be a space that will keep you and your family safe. Expecting a deep clean is an essential part of finding a new home after COVID-19. You shouldn’t be cleaning the property yourself; your previous tenant, home owner or accommodation provider should have cleaned the space before you move in, and they should be keeping any communal areas spotless. If you’re visiting social accommodation, then suggest that they try this provider so that your new home is clean and safe for you and your loved ones. Bear in mind that you will need to organise a professional clean for the home you leave behind.
Price
The cost of your new home may not be the most crucial factor, but it is still important. As many landlords and home sellers are trying to get their properties sold or occupied, you could find that you have more space to haggle and get a better deal. Be careful when negotiating and work closely with your estate agent to understand how much you might be able to get off the cost of your new home.
Quality appliances
Whether you’re renting buying your new home then you need to find a property that has high-quality, reliable appliances. If a second wave of the virus does come, then you don’t want to be stuck in a home that doesn’t have a working cooker, fridge, freezer or washing machine, so review the quality of the appliances in your potential new home. Check that the appliances work well, ask how old they are and whether they’ve been tested recently so that you know that they are high-quality. If you’re renting and you’re unsure, then ask your potential landlord what their processes and turnaround times are for repairing their appliances. If you’re buying then the responsibility will fall to you but at least you’ll go in prepared and can budget if necessary.
Private access
Blocks of flats or houses or multiple occupancies often have communal entrances, which can be prone to dirt and grime. As such, ideally try to find a flat, maisonette or a house with a private entrance, so that you can avoid others and keep yourself safe. If you’re committed to buying or renting a flat, then try to find one with a private entrance, so that you don’t have to walk through a space that’s been occupied by other people, and potentially even bump into them as you enter or leave.
Finding a new home can be a challenge at the best of times, but during a pandemic, it can feel impossible. Use this article to understand what you need to look out for and how you can find a safe new home that you can shelter in until the world returns to normal.