Moving Into an Older Newton Home: What to Check Before Moving Day

Newton is known for its established residential areas and homes with plenty of character. Older properties can offer large rooms, detailed woodwork and unusual layouts. They can also create extra work on moving day.

Furniture delivery may require special instructions to get around narrow doors, steep stairs, and limited parking due to the nature of older home design. Some preparation will help to avoid delays and protect your property.

Why Older Homes Need More Preparation

Before packing, take the time to walk through your new home. Take note of the main entryway and hallways as well as the stairs. Keep in mind any tight corners or low ceilings.

Older homes were not always designed for today’s large sofas, beds and appliances. A piece of furniture may fit perfectly inside a room but still be too large for the route leading to it.

Check the exterior as well. Steps, gates, paths and driveways should be clear. Trim branches if they block access. Remove outdoor furniture and other objects from the route between the truck and the entrance.

Measure Doors, Stairs and Large Furniture

Measure large items before moving day. Record the width, height and depth of sofas, tables, cabinets and appliances. Then compare these measurements with doors, stairs and hallways.

Share any difficult access details with your chosen moving company Newton MA before the move. Mention narrow staircases, limited parking and furniture that may need disassembly. This allows the moving plan to account for the property’s layout.

Do not forget secondary entrances. A side or back door may provide a better route for some large items.

What to Inspect Before the Move

A short property check can identify problems before boxes and furniture arrive. Pay attention to the areas that will receive the most foot traffic.

Check the following:

• Measure the main doors and staircases.
• Test locks and exterior lighting.
• Check floors for loose boards or damaged tiles.
• Remove rugs from busy walkways.
• Confirm that utilities are connected.
• Clear the driveway and paths.
• Decide where large furniture will go.
• Protect delicate surfaces before unloading begins.

Take photos of empty rooms before the move. They can also help you remember where furniture should be placed.

Protecting Floors, Walls and Historic Details

Older houses have decorative railings and trim that are original to the house. Trim is usually more detailed and requires more careful movement of furniture.

longevity of the surface, temporary floor coverings protect hardwood floors from scratches and gouges. Doorway M stays keep door frames from collecting scuff marks, and corner room protectors prevent marking up walls.

Due to the hardwood flooring, do not slide furniture on wooden flooring. Place a protective layer on the flooring before you begin assembly of items.

Outside elements lead to the introduction of dirt and wetness into the house. Clean off any wet areas before hauling items into the house.

Making the New Home Ready for Arrival

Prior to the arrival of the moving truck, designate a general location for major furniture pieces. To avoid multiple moves of heavy pieces, designate the general location of the primary pieces for each room first.

Prior to everything else, set up the bedroom, bathroom and kitchen. Keep extra supplies in a separate box, including cleaning supplies, tools, chargers for electronics and anything else you may need.

If you are moving with children or pets, make sure at least one room is set up and remains quiet, safe, and away from the front doors. Distracted pets or kids and open doors make moving day more hectic.

Older Newton homes take a little extra work to prepare, but most issues can be addressed before everything is moved in.