What You Need to Know Before You Move In Together

By Lori Zaslow and Jennifer Zucher for Project Soulmate

There are many different factors, both trivial and significant, that you need to decide on as a couple before you move in together. Most importantly, you need to have a solid, set plan. Questions must be answered prior to moving in together. For example, is this the person you want to marry?  If the answer is yes for you, then make sure your partner is on the same page.

Sometimes, people may use moving in together as a sort of cop-out to getting engaged. Living together has all the benefits of marriage without the actual commitment in the eyes of the law. Ideally, you should obtain a verbal promise from your partner about if or when the next step towards marriage should occur. However, with that being said, you do not need to put an exact time frame on it because that will add unwanted pressure.

Related Link: How to Know When It’s Time to Get Hitched

First, the two of you need to find a place to live. If possible, it is best to find a new apartment or house together because if you move into a partner’s place, it may not ever feel like your home.

Another important aspect to keep in mind is determining what you can’t live without. For example, will you be cooking or eating out most of the time? Your answer will determine whether you need a certain grocery store or particular restaurants nearby. Do you need to be close to family or the office? Do you need to use mass transit on daily basis, or are you driving to and from places? Living together, the two of you will be going through enough big changes, so it’s best to keep where you live convenient to your already existing lifestyles and routines.

Related Link: How to Prevent Yourself from Rushing into a Relationship

Little things, like closet and bathroom space, should also be addressed beforehand in order to avoid petty fights and arguments. Plus, you made need to consider whether or not the space (if you’re renting) allows for animals. Some people cannot live without their pet, but perhaps, their partner is allergic to the animal. Any issue, no matter how big or small, that’s going to alter your lifestyle in any way after moving in together should be addressed in advance!

For more information about Project Soulmate, click here. 

What do you think you should know before you move in together? Tell us in the comments below!