Congratulations on your recent house purchase! Whether you are a first-time homeowner or a seasoned veteran, moving into a new home is a big accomplishment. Now that you have successfully closed on your new house, it’s time to focus on the next steps.
Here is what you should do prior to your move-in to your new home. These tasks will help ensure that your new home is comfortable, safe, and fully functional.
Change the Locks
Obviously! Even if the previous owners were exceptionally nice and handed over all the keys to the house, you never know who else might have a copy. Changing the locks will give you peace of mind and ensure that only you and your family members have access to your new home.
Check for Leaks and Water Damage
Water damage is one of the most common and expensive issues that homeowners face. Therefore, it’s important to check your new home for any signs of leaks or water damage. Look for water stains on the walls and ceilings. Also inspect under the kitchen and bathroom sinks and near the water heater. If you do find any issues, it’s best to address them as soon as possible before they become more serious.
You might also want to look into installing smart water detectors from a dependable manufacturer. Nowadays, they are fairly inexpensive and can save you a ton of money down the road. They can also possibly save you on your home insurance.
Install Window Treatments
Window treatments provide privacy and can help regulate the temperature in your home. They can also add a decorative touch to your new space. Consider installing blinds, shades, or curtains to your windows. Be mindful of HOA rules (if any), as some associations may regulate how your house looks from the outside.
Set Up Utilities and Services
Before your move, you need to not forget to set up your utilities such as electricity, gas, and water. Also don’t forget about other services such as cable, internet, and phone. Check with your homeowner association (if any), as some services may be already included in your HOA fees. Make sure to schedule installation appointments with service providers so you can have access to these amenities as soon as possible.
Deep Clean Your Home
Even if your new home looks clean, it’s a good idea to give it a deep clean before you start unpacking your belongings. This will help get rid of any lingering dust or germs that might have accumulated during the move. Start by wiping down surfaces, cleaning the floors, and sanitizing the bathrooms and kitchen. If you don’t have the time or energy to do this yourself, consider hiring a professional cleaning service.
Consider steam cleaning your carpets and giving your travertine tile or hardwood floors a new polish. The previous owners may have had pets, young children, or just some plain old clumsiness. If there is any evidence of pests, especially around the kitchen, calling an exterminator may be a good idea.
Organize Your Belongings
After you’ve given your new home a good clean, it’s time to start organizing your belongings. Unpack one room at a time and assign a specific place for each item. This will help you stay organized and prevent clutter from accumulating. Consider investing in storage solutions such as shelving or bins to help keep your space tidy.
Check Your Smoke Detectors
Smoke detectors are an essential safety feature in any home. Make sure to check that the smoke detectors in your new home are in working order. Test them by pressing the test button, and replace the batteries if necessary. It’s also a good idea to have a fire extinguisher in your home incase of emergencies.
Update Your Address
Don’t forget to update your address after moving into a new home. Update your address with the post office, your bank, your employer, and any other organizations that need to know your new address. This will help ensure that you receive important mail and avoid any potential issues with bills or other important documents.
Meet Your Neighbors
Finally, take some time to get to know your new neighbors. Introduce yourself and ask for recommendations on local restaurants, shops, and services. Building relationships with your neighbors can help you feel more connected to your new community and provide a sense of security.
In conclusion, moving into a new home can be an exciting and overwhelming experience. But by prioritizing these tasks, you can ensure that your new home is safe, comfortable, and functional.
Remember, moving is a process, and it’s okay to take your time to get settled in. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to tackle everything at once. Take breaks when you need to, and prioritize the tasks that are most important to you and your family.