So the day has finally come. You are moving out of your parents house and into your own place. Exciting? Absolutely. Terrifying? Also yes. Whether you are heading to a basement suite in East Van, a shared apartment in Burnaby or your very first condo in Surrey — this guide will help you get there without losing your mind.
First Things First — What Are You Actually Taking?
Here is the reality check nobody gives you before your first move. Your parents house has years worth of accumulated stuff and not all of it is yours to take — and even less of it will actually fit in your new place.
Before you start throwing things into boxes sit down and think honestly about what you actually need. A bed — yes. Seven bean bag chairs — probably not. A couch — yes. That box of stuff from grade school you have not opened in ten years — absolutely not.
Be ruthless. The less you take the easier and cheaper your move will be and the cleaner your fresh start will feel.
Furniture — Buy Smart Not Big
If you are moving into a smaller space for the first time think multi purpose furniture. A bed with storage underneath, a dining table that doubles as a desk, a couch with a pull out bed for guests. Every piece of furniture should earn its spot.
Do not rush out and buy everything new before you move in. Live in the space for a few weeks first and figure out what you actually need before spending money on things that may not fit or work in the layout.
Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are your best friends for affordable second hand furniture in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland. You can furnish a whole apartment for a fraction of the cost of buying new.
Kitchen Basics — Start Simple
You do not need a fully stocked kitchen on day one. But you do need the basics to avoid eating takeout every night which adds up fast in Vancouver.
Start with a pot, a pan, a knife, a cutting board, plates, bowls, cutlery and a kettle. That covers about 90% of what you will actually cook in your first few months. Build up from there as you figure out what you actually use.
Check if your new place comes with a fridge and stove — most rentals in BC do but always confirm before moving in.
Make It Feel Like Home
A new place can feel empty and impersonal at first but it does not take much to make it yours. A few photos, a plant, some art on the walls, a lamp you love — small personal touches make a huge difference.
You do not need to decorate everything on day one. Take your time and build a space that genuinely feels like you rather than just filling it with things.
Do Not Forget the Practical Stuff
Before moving day make sure you have sorted out your utilities — BC Hydro, internet, renter’s insurance and your new address for your bank, Canada Post and any subscriptions. These are easy to forget when you are excited about the move but can cause real headaches if left too late.
Brothers Moving — Helping First Timers Move Across BC Since 2008
Moving out for the first time is a big deal and we want to help make it as smooth as possible. Brothers Moving serves Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, Surrey, Coquitlam, North Vancouver and all of Greater Vancouver. We also serve Vancouver Island and cities across BC.
Call us at 604-720-0931 or request a free quote today — we would love to be part of your first big move! 🚛