When you’re moving into a new home, there’s a lot to think about. Although we often think of moving processes like packing and unpacking as the only main roadblocks to properly setting in, it’s the things you do after you move into a new house that makes the most significant difference. Getting acquainted with your house, learning how it works, and prioritizing what initiatives you want to confront are all method of getting on your position as a homeowner—and it’s best to do it all right when you move in, rather than waiting and presuming you’ll figure it out later.
Of course, you already have a lot on your plate. Therefore, to assist you in setting your to-do checklist, we’ve compiled a list of the ten most important things to do when moving into a new house. The majority of these tasks aren’t time-consuming, but they do necessitate making a significant effort to complete them. Read on to learn what you need to know, then make a strategy. Eventually, you’ll be able to relax, crack open a bottle of champagne, and toast your new home.
Take a Walkthrough
When your new house is empty, there is no better opportunity to undertake a comprehensive walkthrough. Take a glance around before arranging your furniture and getting unpacked (and, if feasible, before emptying the moving truck). You’ll want to double-check the following, among many other things:
- The prior owner completed all required and accepted repairs.
- Everything that was supposed to be included in the sale is present and accounted for.
- Everything, including outlets, switches, and lighting, is in perfect condition.
If you notice a fault that violates the sales agreement (for example, the previous owner moved the washer and dryer with them when they were expected to leave them there), contact your agent right once to find out what options you have. Things that you realize that were not addressed by your contract are now your problem, but knowing what they are can help.
Child/ Pet Proof (If Needed)
If you’re going to a new home with little children (or even simply a furry four-legged pet), one of the first things you’ll want to do is conduct some preliminary childproofing to ensure safety until you can complete your entire setup. Identify and focus on how to rapidly childproof a home on shifting day, which includes ideas like setting aside a separate, kid-free area for abandoned packing goods and double-checking all windows to ensure they’re firmly closed and clear of any long hanging cables from the blinds. Retain anything hazardous out of reach of little children, such as box cutters, cleaning tools, and glassware.
Plan Things Accordingly
When moving into a new home, establishing a plan of action for putting everything up rather than eyeballing it will save you a great deal of time and headache; this is especially true for goods that are heavy and bulky, such as furniture. While you certainly have a general concept of what belongs in which room, take a minute to consider how you’d like the makeup to look. Of course, you can make adjustments afterward, but approaching this activity with a basic plan will always make the process easier.
Sometimes, when you shift a home, you need some repairs or wall replacements. If that’s the case, consult a professional and have suitable quality concrete wall forms.
Ensure That the Utilities Are In Working Order
Ideally, you kept track of getting your utilities set up before moving into your new house, in which instance, now is the time to double-check that everything is in working condition. Check your electric, gas, water, heating and cooling, phone, and internet connections on shifting day. Then contact your local waste disposal facilities to make sure your new home is also set up for rubbish collection.
Find the Water Valve and the Fuse Box
You don’t want to spend time seeking the fuse box or the water valve when you actually want them. It’s far better to locate them immediately so that if your electricity goes out or you need to cut off the water for some purpose, you can get there quickly. On the other hand, your fuse box is most likely to be in your basement, garage, or a storage area. At the same time, your home’s water valve is usually positioned someplace around the exterior of your property.
Perform a Thorough Cleaning
Cleaning your new house from top to bottom may be the last thing on your mind after getting through the moving process, but it is the best time to do so. Luckily, we’ve put up a guide to help you with the new house thoroughly clean. Consider hiring a cleaning company alternatively if you don’t have the time or interest to put on your washing gloves and fetch a mop right now. Beginning life in your new house in a healthy condition is more than worth it; regardless you invest in time or money.
Address Repairs
If you’re moving into a brand-new property with no past owners, there’s a good chance you’ll have some repair work to do. You should have a good notion of what they are based on your house inspection, but it never hurts to take a stroll around on your own to get a sense of what needs to be done and what is most important. While you don’t have to start working on these repair work instantly (you’ll have plenty of time once you’ve settled in), keeping track of what needs fixing and in what sequence you plan to do it will help you integrate your repair needs and give you a better grounding for when the time comes. And if you’re planning to build from extras in your home, make sure to use the best concrete forms.
Replace Your Locks
Changing the locks in your new home is always a smart option. Even if the former owner isn’t a worry, you never know who might have a key. It’s one of those situations where it’s better to be safe than worried, so call a locksmith or replace the locks yourself if you’re experienced doing so. Rekey the locks on doors leading from the inside to the outside of your home and the windows. It’s a tiny price to pay for a lot of comforts.
An entire list of who should be notified may be seen here. If you’ve relocated to a different state, you’ll also need to contact your state’s transportation department to get a new driver’s license and vehicle registration.
Get to Know Your Neighbors
When you’ve moved in, it’s a lot easier—and less uncomfortable to visit your neighbors right away. Visiting your neighbors is also beneficial for learning about your new neighborhood and gaining suggestions for local services (such as the locksmith) if you need them. You don’t have to go house to house, but the first time you meet a new neighbor, make an effort to introduce yourself. A small amount of friendliness can go a long way.
Moving into a new house is naturally stressful, but completing the ten steps outlined above can make the process go more smoothly. Although there’s a lot to do, don’t hesitate to seek assistance, either from a friend or family member or from a professional person. The earlier you can deal with the significant issues, the faster your new house will begin to feel like a home.
