Moving home is among life's top five stressful events.

Many people underestimate the enormity of the task.

When you're stressed, what seems obvious can be forgotten, so here's a simple checklist to help you move into your dream home without it becoming a nightmare.

* Charge your mobile phone the night before and put the charger in your car.

* Make sure you have all relevant papers and numbers handy.

* Confirm arrangements with the real estate agent to gain timely access to your new house.

* Label boxes clearly with contents and room.

* Keep screws, bolts, clips and other furniture bits together in zip bags and label these clearly.

* Turn off the hot water, gas and electricity, read all meters and note the readings down in your old home.

* After the house is cleared, do a detailed inspection all round. Take notes and photos of any wear and tear, scratches and damages.

* Remove all rubbish and take to the tip or collection point (you can be charged if you don't).

* Leave keys (labelled) where they can be found but are safe, or drop them to the real estate office.

* Leave the old house secure - lock all windows/doors/garages when you leave -- as you are still liable at this stage.

* Inspect the new house, without furniture or boxes in it, take notes and photos of any wear and tear.

Source: Richard Kuipers, founder of Two Men & a Truck - www.twomen.com.au

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