April 6, 2023 Posted in Moving Essentials
Milly Andrews

Born and raised in Portland, Milly has had a lot of experience moving and writing about the relocation process.

Essential Moving in With a Partner Advice for a Successful Co-living Experience

Co-living requires adjusting to each other’s habits, routines, and personalities while maintaining a healthy and happy living space. In this post, we will provide a comprehensive guide on moving in with a partner to help you navigate this new chapter in your relationship, create a harmonious and fulfilling life together, and establish a strong foundation of trust and respect.

A man pushing a woman sitting in a box overlay
This chapter can be a thrilling experience as you take the next step in your relationship

Moving in With a Partner Is Exciting and Requires Planning for Success

Moving in with your partner is an exciting milestone in a relationship. It signifies a new chapter in both of your lives and allows you to take the next step in your commitment to each other. However, it also requires planning, communication, and compromise to ensure a successful co-living experience. From managing finances and household chores to adjusting to each other’s routines and habits, there are many factors to consider when moving in together. Luckily, we have all the relocation tips and strategies for creating a harmonious living space that can support your relationship and personal growth after moving cross-country with your significant other.

Move With Confidence Get Free Quote

Moving in With Your Partner Advice Number One – Discuss Finances

One of the most crucial moving-in-with-your-partner advice is to have an open and honest discussion about finances. Money can be a significant source of stress and tension in any relationship, and a new, co-living situation can bring new financial responsibilities and challenges.

Before you get long-distance moving services and relocate, discuss each other’s incomes, debts, and expenses. After planning a move to a new city, it is also a good idea to create a shared bank account for expenses and discuss your approach to saving money. Having these conversations early on can help you avoid conflicts and misunderstandings down the road and ensure that you are both on the same page when it comes to your financial future together.

Create a Joint Budget and a Plan to Manage Expenses

You need to first make a list of all of the shared expenses that you will need to cover, such as rent/mortgage, utilities, groceries, transportation, and other household expenses. Then, you need to discuss how you will divide the expenses between the two of you. You may choose to split them equally or based on each other’s income level.

It’s also a good idea to discuss your long-term financial goals as a couple and plan for how you will achieve them. This may include saving for a down payment on a home, paying off debt, or investing in retirement.

moving cross country for love is great but be aware of all costs when planning it overlay
Communication is key when it comes to managing finances as a couple

Choosing the Right Home Is Crucial When Moving in With Your Partner

A new home can set the tone for your co-living experience and influence your overall happiness and satisfaction, so not considering it carefully would be one of the most severe relocation mistakes. When selecting a home, you should consider various factors, such as your budget, location, type of housing, and amenities.

When deciding where to live, discuss with your partner the type of housing you both prefer, such as a house, apartment, or condo and consider your lifestyle and needs when choosing the location. You should also take into account the proximity to public transportation, work (if you plan to get a job in a new city), and entertainment.

According to Pew Research Center, most people under 30 believe that couples who live together are more likely to experience a successful marriage

Additionally, think about the amenities that are important to you, such as parking, laundry facilities, a gym, or a swimming pool. Remember that the key to choosing the right home when relocating to a new city is to find a compromise that works for both of you.

Combine Belongings and Create a Space You’ll Both Enjoy

Creating a space you’ll both enjoy after getting cross-country moving services and letting long-distance movers help you relocate is a crucial step when you plan on living with your significant other. It can be a challenging process, but it’s an opportunity to declutter and create a cohesive living space.

To do so, start by discussing what belongings you both want to keep when relocating and what items you can let go of. Be open to compromise and consider selling items that you no longer need or donating them to the Salvation Army or some other charity. If you’re relocating to a smaller home, you might also want to invest in some creative storage solutions to keep your belongings organized and maximize space in your new home.

Decorate and Personalize Your Shared Living Space

Once you’ve decided what to keep and what to get rid of, decide on a decorating style and color scheme that you both like. This may involve combining different design elements or choosing a neutral palette that can be personalized with accents and accessories. Incorporate personal touches such as family photos, artwork, and souvenirs that reflect your shared experiences and memories. This can help to make the space feel more inviting and comfortable.

A minimalistic living room overlay
By working together, you can create a comfortable and inviting space that reflects both of your personalities

Divide Household Chores to Avoid Arguments

Dividing household chores is essential to maintain a harmonious co-living experience with your partner. Here are some tips to help you divide household chores fairly:

  • Create a list of chores – make a list of all the household chores that need to be done regularly, such as cleaning, cooking, grocery shopping, laundry, and taking out the trash,
  • Discuss your preferences – for example, if one of you enjoys cooking, they may take on more responsibility for meal planning and preparation,
  • Divide the chores fairly – you may choose to split them equally or based on each other’s schedules or strengths.

Create a Balanced Chore Schedule and Maintain Cleanliness

It’s a smart idea to create a schedule or chore chart to keep track of who is responsible for which chores and when they need to be done. This can help to ensure that both of you are accountable and that the chores are done regularly.

However, it’s also important to be flexible and willing to adjust the chore schedule as needed. Communicate openly with your partner about any challenges or issues that arise, and work together to find a solution that works for both of you – it is the only way you can ensure that the workload is shared fairly and that your home remains a harmonious and comfortable space for both of you.

If you’re looking for some ideas on how to make a DIY chore chart that works (and will continue to work if you plan on expanding your family), take a look at the video below:

Foster Emotional Support and Communication

Fostering communication is crucial when you plan to move in together since it can help strengthen your relationship and ensure that both of you feel heard, understood, and supported. Therefore, after your relocation day preparations are done, make sure to set aside time each week to check in with each other and discuss how you’re feeling about your life together. This can help to ensure that both of you feel heard and understood.

At the same time, practice active listening when communicating with your significant other. This involves fully focusing on what they are saying and responding with empathy and understanding. Additionally, don’t forget to express gratitude and appreciation for your partner regularly to help to strengthen your bond and ensure that both of you feel valued in the relationship.

Balance Quality Time and Personal Space

Besides adjusting to a new town, after hiring a long-distance moving company and getting cross-country moving service, you’ll also need to adjust to a new living situation and share space with another person. Therefore, before you start preparing for a move, have a conversation about your expectations regarding time spent together and alone. Be honest and clear about your needs and preferences, and try to find a compromise that works for both of you.

Note that balance is key when it comes to quality time and personal space, so make sure you both have designated alone time where you can pursue your hobbies or interests, relax, or simply have some personal space. This could be a few hours a day or a couple of days a week. Simultaneously, after getting packing services and relocating, make sure you plan date nights or other activities you can enjoy together, such as cooking dinner, watching a movie, or going for a walk. It’s important to prioritize quality time and be present during those moments.

Develop Conflict Resolution Strategies

Conflict is a natural part of any relationship, but when it’s time to move in together, it’s important to develop an effective plan on how to deal with it. For example, when emotions are high, remember that it’s easy to say or do things that we regret later. Taking a pause and stepping away from the situation can give you time to calm down and collect your thoughts.

Active listening is a key part of resolving conflict. Make sure you’re really hearing what the other person is saying, and try to see things from their perspective. At the same time, ensure you express your feelings. Use “I” statements in this case and avoid blaming or accusing the other person.

Once the conflict occurs, look for areas of agreement and try to find a compromise that works for both of you. This can help reduce tension and allow you to find a solution that works for everyone. In the end, if you’ve said or done something that has hurt the other person, apologize sincerely and take responsibility for your actions – and so should your partner.

couple overlay
Keep the lines of communication open, and you'll have nothing to worry about

Plan for the Future by Moving With a Cross Country Moving Company

Relocating with the help of cross-country movers can be an excellent way to start this new chapter of your life. From packing and loading to transportation and unloading, reliable cross-country moving companies have all it takes to help you relocate efficiently. By working with trustworthy and reputable movers, such as Cross Country Moving Company, you can save time and energy while ensuring all your relocation inventory arrives safely at your new home. So if you’re planning to relocate with your significant other in the near future, don’t hesitate to contact us, book your move, and make your transition as smooth as possible.

FAQ

What Factors Should We Consider When Choosing a Location and Type of Housing?

Consider factors such as relocation budget, commute time, proximity to family and friends, and access to amenities such as grocery stores, parks, and entertainment. Think about your lifestyle and preferences, such as whether you prefer urban or suburban living, a small apartment or a larger home, and whether you want to rent an apartment or buy a home. Be open to compromise and communication as you make this decision together.

What Are the Best Ways to Divide Household Chores and Responsibilities Fairly?

Begin by discussing what chores need to be done regularly and decide on a system for dividing them fairly. Consider creating a chore chart or schedule to keep everyone accountable. Be willing to adjust the system as needed and communicate openly if you feel that the workload is not balanced.

How Can We Maintain Open Communication and Resolve Conflicts in a Shared Living Space?

Practice active listening, empathy, and respect when communicating with your partner. Address conflicts as they arise and work together to find a resolution that works for both of you. Consider seeking outside help if you are having trouble resolving conflicts on your own.

What Are Some Strategies for Adjusting to Each Other's Routines and Habits?

Be mindful of each other’s schedules and routines, and be willing to adjust your own habits to accommodate your partner’s needs. Consider setting up designated spaces for individual activities such as work or hobbies. Be open to compromise and communication to find a balance that works for both of you.

How Can We Balance Personal Space and Quality Time Together in Our New Home?

Establish designated areas for personal space and consider setting aside dedicated time for individual activities. Make time for shared activities and prioritize quality time together, such as cooking together or having a weekly date night.

Should We Discuss Our Future Plans and Goals Before Moving in Together?

Discussing future plans and goals is important to ensure that you are both on the same page and working towards a shared vision before you relocate to a new state. Consider topics such as career goals, family planning, and financial planning. Be open and honest about your aspirations and listen to your partner’s goals as well.

How Can We Prepare for the Logistics of Moving in Together and Have a Smooth Transition?

Relocating to a new home with your significant other can be a stressful and overwhelming process, but there are steps you can take to prepare and make the transition as smooth as possible. Start by creating a relocation checklist of everything that needs to be done, such as packing, hiring movers, setting up utilities, and so on. Discuss any logistical challenges that may arise, such as coordinating schedules or dealing with shared finances. Set a realistic timeline and plan for unexpected expenses or delays.

What Are Some Tips for Nurturing Our Relationship and Ensuring Emotional Well-Being After Moving in Together?

Set aside time to communicate openly about your feelings, hopes, and dreams. Make time for shared activities that you both enjoy and prioritize intimacy and affection. Practice self-care and encourage your partner to do the same. Finally, be patient and compassionate as you navigate this new chapter together.

QUICK MOVING ESTIMATE

    Download as PDF Moving Checklist
    Get a Free Estimate 877-888-0708