How to move into a condo with ease

By Barbara Lawlor
April 21, 2016

Moving into a condominium allows suite owners to leave behind the worries of maintaining a large property and embrace a more carefree lifestyle. Whether you are a first-time buyer starting out with a compact suite, a move-up purchaser going into a larger suite, or an empty nester looking forward to fewer square feet, you are embarking on an important life step. As exciting as it is, a major move can also be stressful – especially if you are coming from a large home with countless possessions. A little pre-planning can make moving day go ever so much more smoothly. And for the condo purchaser, it is never too early to begin a plan of action.

Even if you purchase at the very beginning of sales and your condo will not be ready for occupancy for a couple years, start thinking now about paring down. Why move items that will just clutter your space and add the hassle of trying to sell or give away after you’ve settled in?

Here are a few tips that can help:

Take a good look at your floorplan and figure out what furniture can go where. Pay attention to the room dimensions and be reasonable. Ask yourself what you already own that you will want in your new environment. Flag pieces that will not be part of your condominium lifestyle and start the process of finding homes for them.

When you pare down possessions, remember that the amenities in the building are like extensions of your living space. There’s no need for that elliptical trainer if you have an equipped fitness room an elevator ride away.

Consider hiring an organizer to help you envision your new space and decide what is appropriate to move with you. These professionals have an eye for looking at a room and knowing exactly how to maximize the area. Wouldn’t it be great to move into your condominium knowing where the various items fit and having things packed accordingly?

If you need to purchase furniture, take heart – today’s manufacturers have gone all out to design multi-purpose items that can help you make the most of your space. From Murphy beds to coffee tables that swivel up to become dining surfaces and armoires that can house entertainment systems or computer nooks, there are items available in just about any colour and style you would want. And if you start early, you can watch for sales.

Are you a plant fanatic? Here’s where your floorplan can come in handy again. Which directions do your windows and balconies face? What plants do well in those natural light conditions? And give some thought to container gardening on your balcony or terrace. If you plan it out ahead of time, you can look for pots and containers and have the moving people carry them onto your outdoor space.

Be sure to ask your developer early about the procedure on move-in day. You may have to book elevators well in advance. And of course, this needs to be coordinated with your moving company. Moving day is a lot more pleasant when there are no surprises.

Leave children and pets with someone else on that day. Condominiums can be busy, with people coming and going via elevators, stairs and the lobby. Having to keep track of toddlers or dogs will add unnecessary stress.

When it comes to moving into your new condo, a little foresight goes a long way to achieving your beautiful vision. Even if your occupancy date is well into the future, start your move now – mentally. Then enjoy your fabulous new home!

About Barbara Lawlor

Barbara Lawlor is president and CEO of Baker Real Estate Incorporated, an Honoree at the 2019 BISNOW Toronto Power Women Commercial Real Estate Leaders event, a panelist at the Key Media International Conference in 2018 and winner of the pinnacle 2017 Riley Brethour Award from BILD, among other accolades. She is also an in-demand columnist and speaker who is respected for her impactful industry voice. A member of the Baker team since 1993, she oversees the marketing and sales of condominium developments in Canada in the GTA, Vancouver, Calgary and Montreal, and internationally in Beijing. Keep current with The Baker Blog at blog.bakerrealestate.com

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