Buying a new home is a proud moment for you and your family. It is likely one of the most expensive purchases you will ever make, so it’s a significant milestone for everyone involved. Many Chinese people observe or believe in various customs when moving house.
Last year, my sister bought a new flat and temporarily stayed with my mum in one of her spare rooms. In Singapore, many people only move in after their homes are fully renovated—quite different from the moving culture here in the UK.
In the UK, people often move into their new homes first and renovate gradually, as and when finances allow. Some who have extra savings may choose to rent elsewhere for comfort while their homes are being renovated.
Before my sister bought her place (a second-hand flat), she went through quite a process. At every property she visited, she would ask my mother for her opinion. My mother is very traditional—she consults Buddha and our ancestors for guidance. She would pray, mention the unit number, and then use divination blocks, also known as moon blocks (Jiǎo Bēi), to seek answers. If moon blocks were unavailable, she would sometimes use two identical coins as a substitute.
Besides seeking spiritual guidance, my sister also consulted friends who are believed to have a “third eye.” What does this mean? People with a third eye are said to be able to see spirits or ghosts. Some individuals will bring such friends along when house hunting to check for any unseen presence. Others may bring young children (usually under five years old), as they are thought to be more sensitive to such energies. If the child cries, it may be considered a bad sign. However, even if they play happily, it does not necessarily mean everything is fine.
I will link an episode from Mr Zhou’s Ghost Stories podcast when I find it. It tells the story of a single mother who bought a flat, where her daughter happily played with someone the mother could not see.
Interestingly, my sister’s interior designer (ID) also claimed to have a third eye. In addition to providing design advice, the ID helped “scan” the house for unseen entities. Before renovation began, the ID performed a ritual—knocking on all corners of the house and offering prayers.
In Singapore, where many people live in HDB flats, there are designated areas for burning incense offerings. Before burning paper offerings, a circle is drawn (using water or chalk). The offerings are placed within the circle to indicate they are meant for the Earth Deity, and prayers are said to seek blessings.
Rolling Pineapple
After collecting the keys, some Chinese families roll a pineapple across the floor of the new home, as it symbolises prosperity (旺 – Wàng). My best friend did this before renovation, while my sister did it after renovation when moving in. Practices vary depending on personal preference.
In one episode of Mr Zhou’s Ghost Stories (19 October 2018, around the 44-minute mark), a story was shared about a Hong Kong family whose pineapple rolled out of the house twice. They took it as a bad sign and decided not to move in. Another story (11 June 2021, told by Warwick) also discusses pineapples and new homes—worth a listen!
After rolling the pineapple, some people sprinkle salt and rice in every corner of the house to ward off negative energy. Others may hire feng shui masters to advise on layout and auspicious arrangements. My best friend paid $1,288 for a consultation about six years ago, though I’m unsure of current rates in Singapore.
Auspicious Dates and Times
In the UK, completion day is what matters most. However, in Chinese culture, selecting an auspicious date is crucial. Some consult temples, while others rely on feng shui masters.
My sister’s renovation was completed during the Hungry Ghost Festival. During this period, she made frequent offerings to avoid disturbances from wandering spirits. She moved in shortly after the festival ended, choosing a specific auspicious time.
She was very strict about timing—the removal company was late (they were supposed to arrive at 11am), so she cancelled them and rescheduled for the next auspicious window (1pm–3pm).
Traditionally, moving in the morning or at noon is preferred. Moving in the evening or at night is considered inauspicious, symbolising a life of long working hours—leaving early and returning late.
Spirit Tablets or Statues
Not every household has spirit tablets or statues, but for those who do, these are moved in first. They are believed to protect the home. I have previously shared personal stories about spirit tablets and incense pots—feel free to check them out.
Open Windows and Turn on the Lights
Opening all windows and switching on the lights symbolises welcoming positive energy and helping the home feel lively and prosperous.
Housewarming
A housewarming is considered essential. Inviting relatives, friends, and neighbours helps fill the home with 人气 (Rén Qì)—human energy—which increases positive (yang) energy and reduces negative (yin) energy. The more lively the gathering, the better.
Additional Taboos
Some common taboos include:
- Avoid moving house while pregnant.
- The marital bed should not be dismantled, as it is believed to affect the unborn child’s soul.
- Maintain a positive mood and avoid using negative or unlucky language during the move.
What do you think about these Chinese customs? Do you follow any traditions when moving house? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.
