🏡 The Ultimate Pre-Move Checklist for Canadian Homebuyers (2025 Edition)

Buying a new home in Canada is exciting - but moving into it? That’s where the real work begins. Between closing dates, packing, and paperwork, the process can feel overwhelming.

The good news: a smooth move is all about smart preparation. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or an experienced mover, this 2025 edition of the Pre-Move Checklist covers everything you need to plan, pack, and transition into your new home without stress.

🗓 1. 4-6 Weeks Before the Move: Plan and Prepare

✅ Confirm the Big Details

• Finalize your closing date and confirm possession timing with your lawyer or realtor.
• Book your movers early - especially if you’re moving in peak summer months or end-of-month dates.
• If you’re moving between provinces, get interprovincial moving estimates well in advance.

✅ Declutter Before You Pack

Moving is the perfect opportunity to start fresh.

• Donate, sell, or recycle items you no longer use.
• Sort belongings by category: keep, donate, or discard.
• The fewer boxes you move, the faster (and cheaper) it’ll be.

✅ Update Your Insurance

• Contact your home insurance provider to transfer coverage to your new property.
• Don’t forget to update your car insurance address as well - it can impact your premium.

✅ Arrange Utilities

• Set up service transfers for electricity, gas, water, internet, and cable.
• Schedule disconnections at your current address for the day after you move, just in case of delays.

✅ Notify Important Contacts

Update your address with:

• Your employer and payroll department
• Banks, credit cards, and investment accounts
• Government agencies (CRA, Service Canada, driver’s license)
• Subscriptions and delivery services

📦 2. 2-3 Weeks Before: Pack Smart

✅ Gather Packing Supplies

You’ll need sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and labels. Start packing non-essentials - decor, books, seasonal clothing - first.

✅ Label Everything

Write what’s inside each box and the room it belongs to.
 Tip: Use coloured tape or sticky notes to mark boxes by room for easy unloading.

✅ Protect Valuables

• Pack jewellery, important documents, and electronics separately.
• Keep passports, IDs, and home purchase documents in a “do not pack” folder you carry personally.

✅ Plan for Kids and Pets

• Arrange childcare or pet boarding for moving day.
• Pack comfort items (toys, snacks, favorite blanket) for a stress-free transition.

🚛 3. 1 Week Before: Final Prep

✅ Confirm All Bookings

• Double-check mover arrival times, elevator reservations, and parking permissions.
• Confirm key pickup or lockbox details with your realtor.

✅ Clean and Repair Your Old Home

• Patch small holes, clean appliances, and do a final sweep.
• Take photos of your old place before leaving - especially if you’re a renter.

✅ Pack an “Essentials Box”

This should be the first box you open at your new home. Include:

• Toiletries, towels, and bedsheets
• A few dishes, cutlery, and cleaning supplies
• Chargers, snacks, and coffee (because caffeine saves moves!)
• Basic tools and scissors for unpacking

✅ Empty the Fridge and Pantry

Use up perishable food and defrost your freezer at least 24 hours before moving day.

📍 4. Moving Day: Stay Calm and Organized

✅ Do a Walkthrough

Before leaving your old place:

• Check every room, closet, and drawer.
• Turn off lights and lock windows and doors.

✅ Guide the Movers

Show movers which boxes or furniture pieces need extra care or are fragile.

✅ Meter Readings

Take photos of electricity, gas, and water meters at both properties for accurate billing.

✅ Keep Documents Handy

Have your closing papers, new home keys, and ID with you. Keep them safe and accessible.

🏠 5. After the Move: Settle In

✅ Unpack Essentials First

Start with the kitchen and bedrooms - areas you’ll use right away. Don’t rush everything in one day; unpack by priority.

✅ Change Locks and Security Codes

For safety, consider changing door locks or reprogramming garage openers and alarm systems.

✅ Set Up Utilities

If not done already, confirm that all utilities are working and billing is in your name.

✅ Update Your Address (Again)

If you forgot any subscriptions or services, now’s the time to update. Don’t forget your doctor, dentist, and vet too.

✅ Get to Know the Neighbourhood

• Find your nearest grocery store, pharmacy, and gas station.
• Walk or drive around to learn the local routes and nearby parks.
• Introduce yourself to neighbours - they’re your best local resource.

🧰 6. Bonus Tips for a Stress-Free Move

🕓 Start Early

The earlier you begin packing and planning, the smoother your move will be.

💰 Budget Wisely

Factor in hidden costs like movers’ tips, cleaning supplies, storage, and takeout meals during the transition week.

🧹 Schedule a Deep Clean

A quick deep clean before unpacking helps you start fresh and saves time later.

🪴 Take Care of Yourself

Moving can be emotionally and physically draining. Stay hydrated, rest when needed, and celebrate small progress.

🏡 Ready to Move into Your New Home?

Moving may be stressful, but with the right checklist and organization, it becomes an exciting fresh start. Remember - the key is planning ahead, staying flexible, and focusing on what matters most: making your new house feel like home.

Whether you’re buying your first property or upgrading to a new space, Broko can help you find homes in the right neighbourhood, near great schools, and within your budget.

👉 Explore your next home on Broko