Moving to a new home is quite the journey. It begins when you start looking at properties online. Soon you get pre-approved, research the area you are moving into, meet with a realtor and start looking at housing in person. And things don’t slow down once a contract is signed: you have a home inspection, appraisal, and packing to complete!
When you finally step foot into your new home, you may be left wondering….
Now what?
Keep reading for our list of 11 things to do in the days and weeks after your big move!
Do a Quick Check of all your Boxes
As you move boxes into your new home, quickly check through to make sure your items are safe and intact. This is especially important if you used a moving company – the sooner you let the moving crew know of any issues, the better!
Inspect the home
Even if you did a final walkthrough the day before, do another inspection upon arrival. This includes checking the appliances, running the water, and checking to make sure electricity is working, assuming you changed over your utilities for moving day.
Clean
No matter how sparkling the house looks when you first walk in, cleaning gives you a fresh slate. You can hire cleaners to come in before moving day, or head over with cleaning supplies on your own. Either way, you’ll rest assured knowing that you are unpacking in a clean space.
Unpack
Walking into a house that is filled with boxes can be overwhelming, but don’t rush the unpacking process! Start by making sure any beds are set up for a good night’s sleep, including your pillows and bedding. Continue in the bedroom, unpacking your essentials to begin – a few clothing changes, lamps, and anything else needed on a daily basis. From there, you can make sure the bathroom is set up with toiletries and towels. After the essentials are taken care of, take your time in each room, giving yourself time to set up your new space exactly how you want.
Change Address, Utilities
Any lingering changes that need to be made should be handled within the first couple of days of moving to a new home. Contact your post office to have your address changed, as well as credit card companies and subscription services. You’ll also need to contact the DMV about your change in address.
Secure your Home
The only people who should have access to your home is you and your family. Change the locks to all outside doors, and consider installing a security system. In addition, check all windows to ensure they close and lock. If you didn’t check the smoke detectors during your final walkthrough, now is the time to do that as well.
Find your Fuse Box and Water Valve
Emergencies never happen at a good time. Locate your circuit breaker, and make sure you know which fuses control each part of your house. Also, find the main water valve and become familiar with how to stop it. Do these things within your first day of moving in, just in case you need access to fix a power or water issue sooner than expected.
Create a list of repairs you want to tackle
You may already have a list of DIY projects in your head. Jot down your list of repairs and renovations you want to complete, and order them from most important to least important. This way, you can spread out the projects over a few weeks or months.
Research Area Pros
Do you know who to contact for landscaping, roofing, plumbing? Take some time to become familiar with area professionals. Many towns have a Facebook group you can join, enabling you to learn from residents who’ve been living in town for years.
Prepare for Home Maintenance
Maintenance starts your first year of moving into a new home. Prepare to save 1-3% of the sale price of your home each year for general repairs and upkeep. Use this checklist to stay organized and up to date with maintaining your house and property.
Get Out in the Community
Now for some fun! Greet your neighbors, explore area attractions, and locate schools. Part of making a new place feel like home is immersing yourself in the community.
Questions? Contact Us!