As a couple, one of the most exciting times in your relationship is when you take the big step of moving in together. The thrill of having a place of your own is hard to beat, and what better time of year to take the plunge than on Valentine’s Day? If you’re making your own little love nest this February 14th, here are five lovely ideas for couples moving in together.
1. Celebrate Your Relationship
If you’re moving into your first home together, one of the easiest ways to make the place your own is to add photos, mementoes, and other meaningful decorations that celebrate your relationship. Let an image of the two of you together take pride of place in your hallway, living room, or bedroom, and show the world how much you love each other by adorning your love nest with symbols and signs of your romance.
2. Fit A Double Shower Or Bath
If you’re buying your first property in Purley, Croydon & Greater London and you have enough bathroom space, why not turn the romance up a notch by investing in either a double bath or double shower? It's the perfect bathroom solution for two and will not only create a greater intimacy between you both, but can also make your mornings more efficient too - and potentially steamy!
3. Create A Nook For Two
When you’re furnishing your new home in Purley, Croydon & Greater London, take the time to think about a special space where the two of you can snuggle up together, away from distractions like the television. A window seat with a garden view, a cosy corner of your living space, or a comfy alcove with beanbags and cushions will give you a romantic spot where you can just spend time in each other’s company, whether you’re chatting about your day or reading!
4. Design A Beautiful Boudoir
Of course, for anyone who is loved-up and looking for ideas for couples moving in together, the bedroom is the heart of their home. Making your space both functional, comfortable and romantic is the order of the day, and since this is such an important space, it’s essential to take the time to really plan out your design. Think carefully about furniture placement and accessories. Your colour scheme can also have a significant impact on the ambience of your room, so choose wisely. When it comes to your bed itself, it’s definitely worthwhile choosing high-quality bedding. A luxurious feel can really put the finishing touch to this all-important space.
5. Consider Your Lighting
Lighting is vital when it comes to setting the mood, and if you’re establishing your love nest, it’s essential for that mood to be romantic! While bright lights may be ideal for practical spaces like the kitchen, you can certainly tone it down in the bedroom and living spaces. Overhead lighting is typically far too harsh for those rooms, so consider using table and floor lamps for atmospheric ambient lighting. Adjustable light sconces are an excellent choice for over the bed, giving you perfect lighting control, while a few strategically placed fairy lights around the headboard can work wonders to get a Valentine’s mood going!
Still Just Thinking About Buying Together?
We've answered your common questions.
1. What should we agree before we start viewing homes?
Get aligned on the big three:
Budget ceiling (and what you’re comfortable paying on a monthly mortgage)
Non-negotiables (location/commute, bedrooms, outdoor space, parking)
Timeline (how quickly you want to move)
Tip: write a “must-have / nice-to-have / deal-breaker” list each, then merge them into one shared version.
2. How do we split the deposit and monthly costs fairly?
Most couples choose either:
50/50 if incomes and savings are similar, or
Proportional split based on income (e.g., 60/40)
Shortcut: set up a joint bills pot for mortgage and household costs, then keep personal spending separate to avoid constant micro-tracking.
3. Should we get a joint mortgage, and what can affect approval?
A joint mortgage can boost borrowing power, but lenders will look at both of you. Common factors:
Credit history and current debts
Employment status and income
Existing financial commitments (car finance, loans, credit cards)
Tip: do a quick “credit tidy” early - check reports, correct errors, and avoid taking out new credit right before applying.
4. Do we need a legal agreement if we’re buying together?
It’s worth discussing, especially if one of you is putting in a bigger deposit or paying more each month. A solicitor can help set out what happens if you sell or separate, so you’ve got clarity from day one. Think of it as protection for both of you, not pessimism.
5. How do we avoid falling in love with the wrong property?
Use a simple viewing checklist:
Noise (street, neighbours, rail)
Damp/odours, window condition, signs of leaks
Storage (it matters more than you think)
Phone signal and broadband options
What’s included (appliances, fixtures)
Tip: do a second viewing at a different time of day - places can feel totally different after work hours or on a weekend.
What Next?
If you’re looking for the perfect love nest to share with someone special, don’t hesitate to contact the team at Shinerocks. As your local estate agents in Purley, Croydon & Greater London, we’re on hand to help you find the perfect home that meets your needs. Call us today on 020 8660 2010 or email us at enquiries@shinerocks.co.uk to find out more.