Signs You're Ready To Move In Together

Moving in together can be a huge step in a relationship and there's no right time to do it— though taking it slow is advisable, simply because it's a huge decision.

Moving in together creates a lot of pressure for a new relationship, and has extreme consequences if it doesn't work out. You could lose a lot of money, fight over personal belongings, and get in trouble with landlords, etc., if things go south. Always wait at least a year before moving in with someone, to be sure the relationship is stable enough to last under the same roof.

But how do you know when it's time to make the move?

Firstly, it's shouldn't be something you do for any other reason than wanting to take that next step. Saving money is not a good enough reason to move in together. Neither is the fact that you spend a lot of your time together — lots of people do that in the honeymoon period. The signs for you to look out for should be ones that show that you're actually ready to make the move for your relationship, rather than just thinking it's convenient or what you're supposed to be doing. So, here are seven ways to know when it's time to move in together, according to experts.

You Understand Each Other's Habits

Make sure that you know some of your partner's living habits and that they're compatible with yours. A lot of sleepovers, traveling together, and maybe even staying with them for a full week here or there can be good indicators.

You're Good At Talking About Money

People are not usually honest about money — until there is a problem. And when you're already living together, it is too late to have that conversation. Make sure you're open and happy to talk about finances before you get to that place. When bills are coming and things start to break, you're going to need those skills.

You Know It Will Be Tough

If you think living together will be a dream, you're probably not being realistic. It's important to acknowledge what challenges might come up. Discussing potential issues before the move is an excellent way to avoid conflict and mismatched expectations. When we move in with someone, we know at least some things about them. So make sure you've talked about how incompatibles might play out — and what you'll do if there's tension.

You're Independent

If you're totally co-dependent, moving in together may just make everything worse. Keep your own hobbies and interests and don’t be home all the time. Not only is it healthy, but it keeps the spark alive.

That spark is so important when living together because if it dies, [it's] a fast death.

Being able to maintain boundaries and have your own lives is a must before you move in.

You're Great Problem-Solvers

Moving in together means dealing with lots of unforeseen issues. The most essential ingredient in a relationship is two partners are willing to work on it.

Moving in together can be an amazing, rewarding step in a relationship — if you're ready. Make sure that you're prepared for it, because it can change everything for better or for worse.