The Moving Planner Blog

Last week we shared a few tips for the milestone of moving in with a significant other.  Just as moving in together is a major step, moving out often creates even more uncertainty.  As industry experts and leaders in the moving industry, FlatRate has seen it all. Based on experience as well as diverse knowledge of the industry, the company has compiled the following tips for to survive moving-out.

Divide Mutual Items Peacefully – Over the course of your relationship and time as roommates, you likely compiled a lot of items that are mutually owned. Instead of consistently fighting over what belongs to who down to everything from the big furniture to a tiny dish, make a point of taking time to sit down one afternoon and figure out exactly what is shared and what is own. From there, try to peacefully divide the items, and if an agreement cannot be reached, sell the item and split the cash.
Figure Out Leasing Arrangements – Dealing with the lease, particularly if the relationship ends before the lease expires, can be one of the biggest hassles of all. Take care of this first and be sure to figure out who will stay and who will go, and if you both want out, immediately start posting on roommate boards and asking around for a subletter. And when all else fails, break the lease. The lease needs to end almost as soon as the relationship does.
Seal Up Any Finances – Since the relationship is coming to an end, it is best to discuss and figure any and all finances before parting ways for good. You don’t want to be chasing down an ex for money or being forced to stay in each other’s life because you didn’t square away finances from the get-go. Along with dividing stuff, this is one of the most important conversations to have. It might seem too difficult in light of emotions, but timing is crucial.
Rely on Your Network of Family and Friends – Breaking up can be especially difficult when your boyfriend/girlfriend was also a roommate. Now more than ever you need to rely on friends and family to help get you through difficult times. This might involve sleeping on someone’s couch or having your friends help you find a new roommate and new place. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Get Rid of Leftover Evidence – After dating someone for awhile, there is a lot that reminds you of the significant other and these memories multiply after living together. If you are staying in the old mutual place, redecorate and revamp to make the place brand new. If getting a new place, leave behind anything that reminds you of them and pick up a few new pieces to give your new place a personal touch.