Buying and moving into a new home is exciting! Be sure to consider these tasks before moving in so that the process is as smooth, seamless and safe as possible.
- Make sure you change your locks.
Make changing the locks on all of the exterior doors on your home your first priority. Consider hiring a locksmith to do this for you, or head to Home Depot or Lowe’s and do it yourself! Also be sure to change passwords/codes on security devices or systems and garage doors.
- Transfer over your utilities.
Before you move in and get comfortable in your new home, you’ll need to set up your water, electricity, gas, and internet. This is something to think about in advance as opposed to your move-in day so that everything is all up and running for you.
- Check your smoke/carbon monoxide detectors.
Replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and make sure to test them to be sure they work correctly.
- Replace the air filters.
Not only is this helpful for the air quality, it will also help you keep track of when you need to replace the filter next time as you won’t know when the last one was installed. Write the date on the air filter if you have trouble remembering!
- Schedule a cleaning.
Having professionals come in and do a deep-clean of your home before you move your furniture in is definitely a good idea. Painting the walls and ceilings also creates a “clean slate” for you to start with!
- Do a check-up on your HVAC system.
This system is a necessity, and it’s important to make sure it’s fully-functioning to avoid having to spend money on repairs down the road.
- Come up with a home-maintenance plan.
Create a Google Doc, or just write a list down on paper to keep track of seasonal maintenance checks and tasks you’ll need to complete. For example: cleaning the gutters, unclogging bathroom drains, landscaping, vacuuming mattresses.
- Child or pet-proof.
When moving into a new home with babies, kids, and/or pets, it’s important to do some initial child-proofing, and then more once you’ve moved in (like child locks on cabinets or gates to keep pets out of certain areas).
- Locate the water valve and fuse box
If the power goes out or you need to turn off your water in an emergency, it’s really important that you know where these are located in your home so you don’t waste time and risk damage.
- Decide where you’ll be putting your furniture, etc.
Prior to move-in day, come up with a plan for where you’d like to place your furniture and other materials in your home! This will help your movers (and you) complete move-in more quickly and efficiently.
If you’re moving into a new home, congratulations! If you think you might want to start looking for a home, please reach out to us on our Contact page!
