Moving into Your First Home in Metro Vancouver: A Buyer's Guide
Buying your first home in Metro Vancouver is a significant milestone. The move from your rental into your new home is the final step — and with the right planning, it can be one of the most satisfying days of the process.
Coordinating Your Move-Out and Move-In
The biggest logistical challenge for first-time buyers is coordinating the end of your rental with your home possession date.
Give notice as soon as your possession date is confirmed. In BC, month-to-month tenants must give one full rental period of notice. If your possession date is April 15 and you pay rent on the 1st, you need to give notice by April 1 to vacate by April 30.
Overlap is common. Many buyers pay rent for a week or two after possession while they clean, paint, or do minor work before moving in. This overlap costs money but reduces moving day stress significantly.
Storage as a bridge. If your rental end date is before your possession date, you may need temporary storage. See our guide on using storage units during a move.
Before You Move In
Change the locks. This is the first thing to do after receiving the keys. You do not know how many copies of the old keys exist. A locksmith can rekey the locks for $100–$200.
Do a thorough cleaning. Even if the previous owners cleaned, do your own cleaning before moving in. Pay particular attention to the kitchen (oven, refrigerator, cabinets) and bathrooms.
Check all utilities. Confirm that electricity, gas, and water are connected and working. Test all light switches, outlets, and appliances.
Test smoke and CO detectors. Replace batteries and test every detector. Add detectors if needed — BC building code requires them on every floor.
Document the condition. Do a walkthrough and photograph every room before moving in. This protects you if any issues arise later.
Setting Up Utilities as a New Homeowner
BC Hydro: Set up a new account at bchydro.com. Allow at least 3 business days.
FortisBC: Set up a new account at fortisbc.com if the home has natural gas.
Internet: Book installation as early as possible — allow 1–2 weeks.
Home insurance: Must be in place on possession day. Your mortgage lender will require proof of insurance. Contact insurers before possession.
Property taxes: Paid to your municipality. You will receive a property tax notice annually. If you purchased mid-year, your lawyer will have adjusted property taxes at closing.
Strata fees: If you purchased a strata property, contact the strata management company to set up fee payments.
Planning the Move
Once you have the keys and the home is ready, plan your move like any other:
- Book your moving company 3–4 weeks in advance
- Pack systematically starting 3–4 weeks before moving day
- Label all boxes with destination rooms
- Disassemble large furniture before the crew arrives
Get a free quote or call 778-200-8825. We serve all of Metro Vancouver and surrounding areas, 7 days a week.