Checklist for moving into a first house — everything you need to make your new place feel like home

This checklist for moving into a first house will help you get your essentials in order

We've created your checklist for moving into a first house. Here is a white living room with a tan couch with a brown wall art print above it, a tall white lamp, and a light and dark brown checked rug
(Image credit: Rose & Grey)

You may need a checklist for moving into a first house if you've found your dream home and want to know exactly what you might need.

We've asked cleaning and moving experts what they recommend grabbing. From cleaning products to fab furniture, there are many items you may not have thought about. 

If you're looking to remove house moving stress, getting all the essentials you need will certainly take some of your worries away.

Your checklist for moving into a first house

One of our top apartment moving tips is having a checklist of essentials. This will especially come in useful if you're moving into a new place.

“The first thing I tell first-time buyers all the time is not to rush out and buy a bunch of stuff to fill up their new space,” says Ryan Carrigan, CEO and co-founder of MoveBuddha.

He continues, “As long as you have the basics covered, take your time in decorating and figuring out what you might find is a whole new style and aesthetic for you.”

We have rounded up useful buys throughout, so you can get started on ticking off your list ASAP.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

Cleaning checklist for moving into a first house

A wooden box with three beige and white bottles of cleaning supplies, two scrubbing brushes on either side, and two beige woven cleaning pads hanging off the front edge, with a light wooden door behind it

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Picking out the best cleaning products is an absolute must when creating a checklist for moving into a first house. 

“They ensure that you start with a fresh, clean slate, eliminating any traces of the previous occupants and making your space truly yours,” explains Vanessa Terra Bossart, cleaning expert and founder of Green Terra Cleaning.

She continues, “From scrubbing away dust and grime to sanitizing surfaces, these products lay the foundation for a hygienic living environment.”

Cleaning checklist

Furniture checklist for moving into a first house

A white living room with a tan couch with a brown wall art print above it, a tall white lamp, and a light and dark brown checked rug

(Image credit: Rose & Grey)

While having a couple of first days sitting on floor throw pillows can be fun, you’re going to want supportive furniture long term.

Vanessa explains, “Furniture is not just about filling up space — it's about creating a comfortable and functional living environment.”

She continues, “Your couch becomes the centerpiece of cozy movie nights, your bed offers a sanctuary for restful sleep, and your dining table becomes a gathering place for shared meals and memories.”

Planning your furniture will ensure that you have everything you need to make your house feel like home from day one. 

Be sure to carefully select pieces that reflect your style and personality, so you can create a comfortable and inviting living space.

Furniture checklist

Storage checklist for moving into a first house

A person wearing a white shirt with olive skin putting a pink box into a wardrobe, with shirts hanging underneath the shelf

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Once all your clothes and items are out of boxes, you’re going to need somewhere more permanent to place them all.

Vanessa says, “Storage solutions are the unsung heroes of a well-organized home. They provide a place for everything, from books and knick-knacks to linens and kitchenware.”

She continues, “Planning for storage options allows you to maximize every square inch of your home, ensuring that there's a designated spot for all your belongings and keeping your living areas neat and orderly.”

Some of Vanessa’s top products include storage ottomans, wall shelves for your favorite items, and cabinets for hiding away clutter.

Storage checklist


Keep your checklist for a first home in mind when scouting out items and you’re sure to end up with everything you actually need.

“Take your time and don’t make the mistake of rushing to buy things you don’t need straight away,” Ryan finishes by saying.

If it’s an smaller home you’re moving to, you may find this apartment move-in checklist useful instead.

Eve Smallman
Content Editor

Hi there! I’m a content editor at Real Homes. I've been a lifestyle journalist for over five years, previously working as an editor across regional magazines. Before this, I graduated from Nottingham Trent University a degree in journalism, along with an NCTJ gold diploma. I love running, decorating my rented Victorian home, and discovering new cheeses. For Real Homes, I specialize in interior design, trends and finding the best viral buys.