Moving Out After Divorce: Tips for Moving Post-Divorce

Divorces typically end with one or both people moving out and finding a new place. While that may sound simple on paper, it’s often a complicated and emotional experience for everyone involved. Use these tips and divorce move-out checklist to help you adapt to your next chapter and settle into your new space.

How to Prepare to Move Out After Divorce

Wondering about the legal effects of moving out after divorce? Before you relocate, consult with an attorney and create a move-out plan that protects your interests and belongings. Once you get past the logistics, you might be unsure how to start over in a new space. For most people, this is uncharted territory that should be handled delicately. Lean on your loved ones and the advice of your attorney to get through the process successfully. When you’re ready to approach the move itself, use our checklist below to make your transition easier.

Post-Divorce Move-Out Checklist

Not quite sure how to move on after divorce? Follow this sequence to make your post-divorce move as seamless as possible.

Plan Early

Moving after a divorce can be stressful, but having a plan in place can help make the transition easier and help you stay organized. Once you have your moving date set, begin creating a timeline, set a moving budget, and make a list of priorities. If you're moving with kids, include them in the planning process so they know what to expect. For moving with pets, research possible pet regulations, contact your vet, and pack their items early. Remember, scheduling moving services in advance can not only save you stress, but also help you stay on budget.

Decide How You Will Move

Having a set moving plan can help reduce extra moving stress. If it's in your budget, consider hiring a professional moving company to make your move easier. To ensure you're choosing a reputable moving company, ask important questions about their licensing, insurance, services they offer, and more. If you're moving on a budget, consider DIY moving—or enlist the help of family and friends to surround yourself with a familiar support system.

Declutter Your Belongings

Once you have your schedule and moving crew set, begin taking inventory of your belongings and decluttering your current home. Decide which items you want to keep, sell, donate, return to your ex, or throw away. For items you decide to sell, consider using resale apps like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace. If needed, rent a storage unit while downsizing so you can hang onto items you'll want later.

Get Rid of Sentimental Items

Decluttering sentimental items from your marriage may be difficult, but it can help smooth the transition into your new life. Before or during the packing process, set sentimental items aside to put in storage or get rid of altogether. Even if you’re not quite ready to part with them, knowing they’re tucked away is better than having them in plain sight. Use these tips to help get you started:

• Remove photos of you & your ex:

  If you have digital copies of the photos, it’ll be even easier just to get rid of the physical copies. If you want a completely clean slate, you can also donate the frames and start fresh.

• Sift through items you received as wedding gifts:

  Some of these gifts may not have many feelings associated with them, but others will. Categorize accordingly! For these and any other items that have painful memories attached to them, get them out of the house by selling, donating, or throwing them away.

• Make a list of items that need to be replaced:

  When all sentimental items are removed from the home, go room by room to take a quick inventory and determine what's missing. For example, if your ex took the pots and pans, you’ll need a new set.

Make the Bedroom Reflect Your Personality

The bedroom is the most personal space you share with a spouse, so it can be associated with painful memories. Moving after a divorce provides a great opportunity to make this space your own. Here are some tips for decorating your bedroom:

• Purchase bedding that reflects your personality:

  If there’s a color scheme or pattern that makes you feel calm and centered, that’s an excellent choice for your new space.

• Paint the walls:

  Fresh paint is an affordable upgrade that goes a long way toward making a room feel like your own. Choose a soothing

  bedroom paint color

  that complements your new bedspread.

• Decorate the bedroom how you want:

  Changing a lampshade or adding a new piece of art can really change your room’s dynamic. If you’re on a budget, second-hand stores are great for finding little decorative touches.

Redecorate at Your Own Pace

After a divorce, you might be functioning in survival mode for a while, and that’s okay. Don’t rush to redecorate a space just because you feel like you have to. Your design taste might even change as you get more in tune with your style, so be open to the evolution. In the meantime, focus on living in the space and slowly collecting items that reflect your personality. Here are tips for how you can decorate your new home:

• Hang up artwork:

  Add decorative touches with new art, or frame some drawings from your kids.

• Display your treasures:

  Consider old pieces you've had in storage, or seek out some family heirlooms. These items can serve as a meaningful bridge between your past and your next chapter.

• Update lighting:

  Swap out old light fixtures—or add new ones— to gradually update your space. Like paint, new lighting can really change the feel of your space.

• Get cozy:

  Add items that make you feel comfortable and at home, like throw pillows, blankets, or a comfy reading chair. You get to prioritize your own design preferences, so make sure your space has what you need to relax.

• Stay patient:

  Whether you end up pulling old mementos out of storage or adding fun touches here and there, you’ll find that the changes add up over time. Eventually, your space will feel all your own.

Focus on Self-Care

Moving out after a divorce can be stressful, making it especially important to take care of yourself during the transition. As you move, make sure to surround yourself with family and friends to keep you motivated and grounded. Additionally, seek professional help if needed. When you and your new home are ready, consider throwing a small housewarming party to help you finish settling in.

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Relocating after a divorce? Extra Space Storage has facilities conveniently located throughout the U.S. to help with your transition. Find a storage unit near you!

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