Five tips for couples that are about to move in together

We recently carried out some research looking into the compromises couples make when they move in together and the things that annoy Brits the most about living with their partner. The research discovered that, when it comes to annoying bedroom habits, snoring tops the list, with over 28 million people (44%) in the UK admitting that their other half’s noisy sleeping habit irritates them. Other bedroom habits testing the nation’s relationships include; hogging the bed sheets (23%), leaving the bed unmade (16%), eating in bed (15%) and having different sleeping patterns (15%). To avoid any unnecessary arguments in your first few days and months of living together, follow our tips below for couples about to take the plunge and set up home with each other.

1. Take a look at what both of you own

When couples move in together they can end up with two of everything. Take a look at what both of you own and decide what you are going to keep, give away, throw away or buy new. Downsizing your assets will mean you avoid making your new pad look cluttered or paying for storage.

2. Measure your furniture before you move in

If you’re both furnishing a new place from scratch then taking measurements and buying the right sized furniture will ensure your furniture is correctly proportioned for your space.

3. Set ground rules

Divide up the chores. Do you prefer to do the cooking whilst your partner prefers to do the washing up? Talk about what chores will end up on your list and decide how often and who will do each one. Sharing a ‘to do’ list will ensure the housekeeping is fair and an equal responsibility between the two of you.

4. Have the ‘money talk’

As a nation we find discussing money a little uncomfortable but a conversation about personal finances is needed when couples move in together. Work out the cost of your bills each month and how much each of you are going to put towards those bills. Sharing the responsibility of managing the money will mean one of you won’t be left with more stress than the other.

5. Compromise on your style

One of you may like your home to be traditional and classic while the other prefers the modern and minimalist trend. It can be difficult to decide on how to decorate your new home but it’s important that you both have the chance to express your style in the home. Try taking a room each to decide on a colour scheme and theme and meet in the middle in other areas of the home. What key piece of advice would you give to couples about to move in together? Tell us your advice on Twitter or Facebook @Time4Sleep