Have you recently purchased a home? After completing the elaborate bargaining and documentations, you might assume now’s the time to sit back and relax. But before you savor the success of achieving another milestone, it’s best to keep things in order.
When moving into a new house, you’ll need to take some action to ensure you’ll be a happy homeowner now and in the future. There are plenty of things to prepare before you move in. Here are some first steps you should do:
1. The Basics
Make sure to change your address at least two weeks ahead. Doing so will buy you some time to cancel your utilities and schedule them to be set up at your new residence. During this phase, you can also start looking for local movers in the area. But if you prefer to move by yourself, it would be best to prepare enough resources for transport and manpower.
2. Get an In-depth Inspection
Suppose you’ll own the house by yourself. In that case, maintenance and repairs are now your sole responsibility. So, it is essential to prepare a list of the items you’d want to keep in check. You can also schedule a routine inspection to make sure all areas are well-kept. If anything needs some fixing, be sure the seller covers the charges before closing your deal.
3. Develop a Chore List
As a homeowner, all duties and chores that you used to pass on to your landlord are now yours. You can start by investing with the necessary tools to help you do minor repairs around the house. Consider purchasing a lawnmower, sprinklers, weed trimmers, and other equipment to improve your home’s interior and exterior furnishing.
4. Purge Your Possessions
Aside from time and effort, moving into a new house involves some expenses along the way. If the transition would take more than your allotted budget, perhaps it’s best to raise some funds for your move. You can do so by holding a garage or yard sale of everything you won’t need. Besides, a relocation is a perfect opportunity to start fresh and get rid of the old, unless you can’t live without it.
5. Exterminate, Paint, and Install
Some tasks are easier to accomplish without any furniture around. So, consider fixing your home’s interior before moving in. These include steaming the carpets, wiping the cupboards, painting the walls, and spraying to remove bugs. You can also plug in some power strips on the areas where you’ll place electric-driven appliances.
6. Your “First Day” Box
Make your first day and night at your new home a lot simpler by packing the necessary items such as:
- Trash bags
- Shower curtain and rings
- Toiletries
- Light bulbs
- Extension cable
- Tableware
7. Hire Some Help
You’ve made some improvements to your new home. But before you settle down, are you really sure you’re safe and protected? Whether it’s a new house or a second-hand property, you will need professional help to ensure your home is free from bacteria and viruses. Especially today, diseases can spread quickly.
Suppose you live anywhere in the United Kingdom. In that case, several cleaners offer a full range of deep-cleaning services. Hire one to be sure that all four corners of your home are clean.
8. Improve Security
To maximize the safety and security of your home, make sure to change all the locks in every entryway. You’re not sure who and how many have copies of the keys before your occupancy. Consider adding extra safety or a home security system, as well as making a duplicate of your key.
9. Maintain Air Filters
Replacing your air filters takes approximately 10 seconds. It will enhance airflow and prevent your air conditioning or heating system from wasting energy blasting out poor quality air.
10. Locate Fuse Box and Water Valve
Another essential thing to know in case of emergency is the location of the fuse box and main water valve. There are instances where you might need to switch those off, like a water supply issue or an electrical concern.
11. Fire Protection
If your home doesn’t have one yet, make sure to install a fire protection device and see if they function correctly. Consider getting a roll-up ladder if you have a second or third floor.
12. Meet Your Neighbors
As a new face in your neighborhood, don’t be hesitant to introduce yourself to your neighbors. Although you should have done it before you move in, it never hurts to double-check if their impression matches your survey.
Have you done everything on the record? All that’s left to do is make a guest list for your housewarming celebration. Now, you can welcome them to your new home and enjoy the fruit of your labor.