Bungalows are cozy homes that can often double up as vacation homes.
They have enduring appeal and often make fantastic single-family homes.
However, when the time comes to move house to a new living space or a larger house, it is important to plan for a smooth and seamless experience.
Even though bungalow homes are typically smaller than standard homes, some planning will still be needed to move your house in a cost-effective way.
In this article, we look at the bungalow home moving process – whether you will be moving from one charming home to another in the countryside, moving vacation homes, or whether you will be moving to a bigger house in the city.
Top tips for moving from bungalow homes
To start your planning, consider the following tips for your move:
1. Take the time to sort through your belongings
Even though you are moving from a small dwelling, there are likely some items or belongings that you can donate or even recycle.
For instance, you might have bed linen or appliances that charity shops might be interested in, or even kids’ toys or books that can be given to local daycare or pre-school facilities.
And if you are moving a holiday home, there might be furniture items or even larger appliances such as washing machines or dryers that could be donated and reduce the size of your move.
2. Pack items in clearly marked containers
Use space-saving packing techniques, such as vacuum-sealing bags and nesting boxes, to make your move as easy as possible.
You can also check with your removals company whether they can assist with reusable storage containers as well as packing services with high quality packing materials.
Also, remember that as your moving date comes closer, you will need to pack an overnight bag with essentials, such as toiletries and a change of clothes.
This will make it easier when you arrive at your new home to settle in without a rush or looking around for clothing.
3. Make early arrangements for any repairs needed to gardens or thatched roofs
If you have a thatched roof cottage, ensure that any damage is repaired in advance, especially if it is clearly stated that you are responsible for these repairs as part of your home’s sale.
Old cottages will often need some touch-ups, so make sure that even the smallest item on a snag list is taken care of.
The same careful process needs to be taken for a holiday cottage, ensuring that this type of property is ready to be refurnished by new cottage owners.
Also, remember to take photos and document any unique features, such as wooden beams or traditional aesthetic, to ensure they are properly protected during the move.
This is especially important to ensure your small house remains intact and that you will not be liable for any damage costs once new owners or families have moved into your old cottage.
4. Research and hire a reputable moving company
Research local moving companies and read reviews from previous customers.
Take extra care to check that the company you have in mind offers bungalow moving services, and get multiple quotes and compare prices and services.
Experience with small houses and cottages is key to ensure you will get a sufficient, cost effective service, so ensure you know what services are offered by a moving company.
Also, check for any certifications or licenses, such as the British Association of Removers.
This will give you peace of mind that you are working with a professional moving partner.
5. Make a moving checklist
Create a moving binder with all relevant documents, such as receipts and contracts, and ensure you have confirmed your moving date and time with your moving company.
If you have arranged pet care for the day of your move, do a quick catch up call in advance to confirm your booking.
What to keep in mind when you are moving into a bungalow
Cottage style homes, although not the same average size as traditional houses, offer a lot of potential to become comfortable, charming homes.
Cottage living is a perfect option for young families, young married couples or even retirees, and with beautiful architectural style, it can be a rewarding experience to move into one of these cost effective units.
Keep the following tips in mind when you are planning to move into a bungalow or single family home:
1. Measure all rooms at your new property
If you currently have large furniture pieces, you need to ensure that they will fit in the rooms you have in mind for decorating once you have moved in.
It is best to measure all rooms beforehand to get an idea of how much space you will have for furniture.
The last thing you want is not being able to fit in a couch or a bed set, or feeling cramped in your living space.
So, take the time to ensure you are prepared to decorate your new home.
Also, get familiar with your available outdoor space, especially if you are planning garden makeover or want to have a good idea of maintenance once you have moved into your new home.
2. Downscale and get rid of excess
If your new home is slightly smaller than your old house, you need to consider how you can downscale and whether there are some extra items that you can get rid of – either via donation or selling.
Remember, rooms in cottages tend to be smaller than those in bigger homes, so resist the urge to move with more items than you have space for.
3. Make the most of an open floor plan
Often, bungalow homes have an open floor plan, which means it can feel like you can add as many furniture items as possible to your main living space.
Do resist the urge to do so: Rather apply some careful planning and allow your open plan layout to have enough “breathing space”.
4. Ensure a smooth transition with your pre-move checklist
Old cottages usually have some rustic charm, but it is important that you take stock of any damage or issues that will need to be fixed before you move in.
A good idea is to take photos of the cottage before moving in to document its condition.
5. Consider hiring a cleaning service to deep clean your cottage before moving in.
Get your cottage move-in ready by having it cleaned professionally – consider having the surrounding gardens also mowed and cleaned to completely refresh your home.
There will, of course, be some dust and dirt to take care of when all of your belongings are moved into your new home, but ensure that no unnecessary dirt finds its way into your new home.
Unpacking and settling into a new cottage
When you move into a new cottage, it is best to unpack your belongings room by room to make the process more manageable.
However, do take the time to enjoy the outdoor space and natural surroundings of your new cottage.
Once you are settled in, you can get to know your neighbours and local community to make the transition smoother.
Need more advice about moving a bungalow?
Whether you are moving out of a bungalow, into a new cottage or are moving belongings from a holiday home, we would be happy to assist you with an expert service.
Contact us today – we look forward to hearing from you!
Our expert team is skilled in moving modern cottages and bungalows, and will make every step of relocation as easy as possible.
