moving house moving house

Moving Interstate Checklist & How a Relocation Loan Can Help

Moving interstate can be both exciting and daunting. It involves big decisions and careful coordination. For homeowners, managing the sale of one property and the purchase of another – often in different states – can become overwhelming.

But, with this comprehensive moving interstate checklist and the right financial support, like a relocation loan, you can navigate the process smoothly.

Financial Planning & Loan Market

  • Confirm the sale of your current property and the purchase of a new property. Have a clear timeline for purchasing your new property in your destination state.
  • Understand your budget for the move. Include costs like:
    • Removalists
    • Temporary accommodation
    • Storage
    • Utility disconnections and reconnections
    • Travel for your family and pets
  • Decide whether you need a relocation loan (bridging loan). A relocation loan – often called a bridging loan – is a short-term loan that covers the gap between buying a new home and selling your current one. It's particularly useful for interstate moves, where settlement dates may not align.

If you're buying before you’ve sold, or holding two mortgages for a short time, a relocation loan can provide flexibility and peace of mind. A Loan Market mortgage broker can assess your eligibility, help you understand your options and find a competitive loan that suits your situation.

  • Notify your bank/lender of your move.
  • Update insurance policies (home, car, health). Check your current policies for relocation coverage and make necessary updates once you confirm your new address and timeline.

Property & legal

  • Finalise sale of current home. This includes all settlement details.
  • Confirm purchase of new home. Pay close attention to settlement details and conduct a pre-settlement inspection.
  • Engage a conveyancer/solicitor in both states if necessary
  • Redirect mail. 

Household organisation

  • Declutter and purge possessions. This is a great opportunity to get rid of items you no longer need or use.
  • Get quotes from interstate removalists.
  • Arrange storage if needed. If there's a gap between properties, you might need temporary storage for your belongings.
  • Create an inventory of belongings. 

The Move Itself

Removalists & packing

  • Confirm removalist bookings. 
  • Pack an essentials box for immediate needs. This should include items like toiletries, a change of clothes and important documents.
  • Label boxes clearly. 

Travel & accommodation

  • Arrange travel for family and pets. 
  • Book temporary accommodation. If there's an overlap or gap between settlements, you might need a place to stay.

Utilities & services

  • Disconnect utilities at current home. Arrange for electricity, gas, water and internet to be disconnected on your move-out date.
  • Connect utilities at new home. 
  • Notify service providers. Remember to inform schools, doctors, dentists and any subscription services of your new address.

Arriving and settling in

New property essentials

  • Collect keys for your new home. 
  • Inspect upon arrival. Do a check of the property after the removalists have delivered your belongings.
  • Change locks (optional but recommended). 

Administrative tasks

  • Update your driver's licence and vehicle registration. These need to be updated in your new state.
  • Enrol children in new schools/childcare. 
  • Register with new healthcare providers. Find new doctors, dentists and any specialists you need.
  • Update electoral roll details. 

Financial & Loan Market

  • Finalise your relocation loan or new home loan arrangements. Your Loan Market broker can assist with this.
  • Explore any state-specific grants or concessions. 

FAQs about interstate moves & relocation loans

How do relocation loans work for buying and selling interstate?

They provide temporary finance to cover the gap between your purchase and sale. It helps cover the costs of your new property until your old one settles.

What are the typical costs involved in an interstate move in Australia?

Costs can include removalists, temporary accommodation, utility connections, legal fees, new state registrations for vehicles and potentially stamp duty in the new state.

How do I choose a good interstate removalist?

Look for companies with strong reviews and transparent pricing. Always get a quote in writing. An AFRA membership demonstrates that the business meets industry standards.

Do I need a new conveyancer when moving interstate?

It’s recommended to have someone familiar with the laws in both states.

Are there different stamp duty rules in different Australian states?

Yes – each state has its own thresholds and grants. A broker can explain what applies in your new location.

Conclusion: Your new beginning awaits

An interstate move is a significant undertaking, but with careful planning and the right support, it's absolutely manageable. This moving interstate checklist can help simplify the process. 

Financial solutions like relocation loans offer flexibility when you need it. Whether managing timing gaps or budgeting for the move, Loan Market brokers can help with expert advice and tailored loan options.

Making an interstate move, especially when juggling buying and selling properties, can be a lot to manage. A relocation loan could be the perfect solution to bridge the financial gap and make your transition smoother. Speak to a Loan Market mortgage broker today to discuss your unique situation and find out how we can help you get settled in your new state.

Sources

https://afra.com.au/about/ 

https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/moving-house?context=60023 

https://moneysmart.gov.au/home-loans/buying-a-house 

https://moneysmart.gov.au/glossary/bridging-finance


Published: 24/6/2025
Share
)