First comes love, then comes a drawer at your partner's place — could a moving truck be next? Deciding to move in together is a major step for any couple. If you’re feeling unsure, this quiz can gauge your readiness. Then keep reading to discover key signs you're both prepared to take the plunge.
Moving in together checklist
Deciding whether to move in together can seem overwhelming. Take away your stress by using this checklist to help you decide whether it’s the right option for you.
1. You communicate through conflict
Effective communication is often seen as the cornerstone of a successful relationship. It's important to be able to talk openly about expectations and disagreements. For example, you should be comfortable discussing how long dirty dishes can sit in the sink and how to balance your financial contributions towards joint expenses.
The ability to navigate these conversations constructively can ease the transition to living together. Coming to an agreement and respecting one another’s decisions can go a long way in ensuring a healthy partnership.
2. You’ve discussed finances
Many couples find discussing finances to be a challenge, but consider a conversation before cohabitating. You don’t need to get into all the details before moving in together, but address how you'll manage your financial responsibilities together.
Additionally, consider how you’ll manage the home — whether you’re planning to buy, rent or continue with one partner’s mortgage . Establishing a clear, shared budget before officially moving in can help you both understand and agree on a strategy that works for your financial responsibilities, ensuring a more harmonious financial partnership.
3. You can share responsibilities
Discuss how you’ll divide up household chores fairly. Research shows that couples who nail down these details and communicate openly about their needs tend to have a smoother transition to cohabitation. Whether it’s taking out the trash or managing your household expenses, sharing responsibilities will be key to success. So, make sure you’re both on the same page to keep things running smoothly when you finally share a home.
4. You have the same expectations about the future
Before you share a home, make sure you're in agreement about the commitment. Is marriage in your future? What about children? Will you be able to integrate both of your cultures or values respectfully? Everyone's timelines and wants are different, but you should talk with your partner about your life goals in the years ahead. Based on these choices, you will have a better idea as to how long you want to live together and can plan accordingly. Not everyone wants the same things out of life — and that's okay! Read More: Ready to think about a home purchase with your partner? Find out what kind of mortgage is right for you.
5. You’ve practiced living together
There’s no hard-and-fast rule about how long you should date before deciding to move in together. But if you’ve already spent a lot of time at each other’s places and have gone on trips as a couple, you’ve essentially had a sneak peek into what living together might be like. Think of these experiences as a kind of practice run.
6. Expect bumps along the road
Moving in together is an exciting step but be ready for potential challenges. Financial hurdles can arise as you combine budgets and manage expenses, so open communication about money, setting up a joint budget and planning for emergencies are essential. Be mindful of lifestyle differences and make sure you are compromising when needed. When sharing a space together, respect one another's personal space and handle any conflicts together. Addressing these potential bumps with patience and understanding can strengthen your relationship long-term.
Cohabitate with confidence
Living together is a big change for a couple. How do you know when the time is right? Don't be afraid to seek help from each other as well as friends or family when needed. It’s essential to move forward and face any challenges as a team, working toward your shared success.
