You’ve won the bidding war, you’ve navigated the inspection and repairs, and you’ve successfully made your way past the closing table. Before you officially move in, there are a few things you’ll want to make sure you check off the list. Let this list be your guide next time you’re transitioning into a new living space.
Transfer and Activate Services
Before moving into the new home, you’ll want to make sure you have all of your utilities and services set up. Start by making a list of any existing water/sewer, sanitation, electrical, gas, internet, television, cleaning, pest control, and/or landscaping services and a list of those that you will need at the new home. Keep in mind that you may have existing providers who can simply transfer your service to your new address if you remain in their service area. For those that cannot transfer service or for services you don’t currently have, you can close out your account or schedule a shut off date and then establish new accounts with providers who are able to service your new address. Making sure that these things are handled before you move in will help life in the new place go smoothly.
“Whether you're washing dishes after your first dinner in the new house, taking a shower in the morning or flushing the toilet, you don't want any clogging or overflowing after you've settled in,” says RISMedia Housecall. “That's why it's wise to make sure your pipes and plumbing are working securely.”
Address Updates
While you are forwarding your utility services, make a point to also officially forward your mail to your new address. USPS will catch a lot of your mail but you should also make official updates yourself with key contacts and providers. Some to consider include your: employer, bank, subscription mail services, doctors, schools, newspapers, major delivery providers, and family and friends.
Check Your Locks
One of the most important things to look into when moving into a new home is security. It’s always best to change the locks and access to any home security systems upon moving in, as you’re never sure of who had access to the house before you took ownership. You never know which previous handymen, cleaning crews, babysitters, or neighbors knew the garage codes or had a copy of your house key. This step is often overlooked but extremely important for you and your family’s safety.
Smart Systems
If your new house has a built in security setup, cameras, doorbells, or smart thermostats around the house, make sure you update any passwords or log in information for those systems. You won’t want the previous owners to still have access to these devices. These days, many homes are offering high-tech security systems to convey with the sale and while convenient, these things might end up hindering your security measures if not reset properly.
Around the House
Once you’ve moved in, there are many tasks around the house that you’ll want to take care of. Deep cleaning your refrigerator, bathrooms, and carpets might be an important step to make you feel more comfortable in your new home. Also, locate the home’s air register and buy replacement filters to switch out every few months. Other important spots to locate in the home are the main water shutoff valve, the electrical panel and circuit breakers, and any smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Finding these items now will help you avoid a home emergency headache in the future.
Use the opportunity of moving into a new home to set yourself up for years of homeowner success. After you check these important tasks off your list, it’s time to celebrate! You are a new homeowner and can now settle in, decorate, and get to know your new neighborhood. This checklist will help you enjoy your new home and all that it has to offer in a safe and comfortable way.