Things you should do before moving in with your partner

Moving in together with your partner is a very important step in your relationship. It means that you are ready to share a living space with them, which might include making several adjustments and changes. Furthermore, it also might present to you a side of your partner that you have been completely unaware of. All in all, extensive thought must be given before you take such a big decision. Here are 7 steps you should take before living with your partner.

First, think about why you want to move in together. Particularly in cities with a high cost of living, some couples move in together to save on rent and then discover their relationship wasn’t ready for that step. You need to consider what your motivations are, and how much you and your partner share your lives, especially if you have been together for less than a year.

If you have concerns about cleanliness, chores, or even who's welcome when you are not there, you should talk now. You can start by talking about your readiness to live together. However, if you are afraid this will create tension, then think twice about living together.

You definitely want to talk about money in advance with your partner. Decide how you are going to split the rent, bills, and shared expenses including groceries and household necessities. What are your financial priorities when it comes to your home - this is something you need to discuss beforehand.

If possible, plan to spend at least a month in each other's place. Your habits will vary, depending on how much you feel like you are in your own space. Trials give you a chance to see how each of you truly lives, when you are feeling at home and when you are not.

Begin by talking about how your family split up chores while you were growing up, and share if you want to stick to those patterns or create something different. Talk about how long you are okay with letting dishes sit in the sink or how often you deep-clean the house.

Moving in shouldn't mean you stop living independently. If you lose what you used to enjoy when you lived alone, you lose yourself. Separate experiences and friendships are what make you unique, so keep them in your life after the move.

Before you move in together, talk about your long-term plans for your relationship. Are you planning on getting married? If so, discuss your timeline. The same goes for having children: Do you want children? If so, how many children do you want to have?