Moving into a new home is an exciting adventure. Unfortunately, it can also seem somewhat overwhelming, knowing what to do and when. Thankfully, this helpful list below will tell you the top 10 things to tackle after moving into a new place:
1.) Have the Utilities Turned On: You might have already taken care of this prior to move in day. However, if you haven’t, go ahead and do this as soon as possible once moving in.
2.) Change the Locks: If you didn’t handle this prior to moving, change the locks before moving your valuable stuff into a new place. You have no idea who the prior owners gave copies of their key to, so it’s best to be on the safe side and have the locks changed and new keys created. Not having your locks changed is a big security risk.
3.) Update Your Mailing/Billing Address: You can change your mailing address online via the U.S.P.S site. However, even once you do this, don’t be surprised to have your mail get a bit mixed up for a while after your move.
4.) Get Internet: Since many devices, such as sprinkler systems, doorbells and even garage doors can utilize an internet connection, an internet hookup is almost as necessary as water and power. Therefore, it’s important to establish your internet connection at your new place as quickly as possible.
5.) Figure Out Where You are Going to Sleep on Night One: Just as if you were stuck in the woods at night, you must come up with a plan for shelter for the night as quickly as possible. Thankfully, you do have a roof over your head. Unfortunately, most of your belongings might still be in boxes, so determine where you are going to sleep your first night, or make it a priority to unpack your bed and bedding as your first task, so at the very least you have a place to rest for the night.
6.) Meet Your New Neighbors: Hopefully, your new neighbors will let curiosity get the better of them and introduce themselves, even better if they bring along food. If they don’t though, don’t be put out, they might just be shy or worry they will get in your way. Go introduce yourself as soon as possible.
7.) Wipe Out Cabinets: Before placing your clean dishes into your cabinets, wipe them out well with a cleaner and replace contact paper if necessary. This will let you know if there is a rodent problem in your home you need to deal with. Speaking of which…
8.) Set Up a Pest Control Company: You might find your empty home has been enjoyed by rodents during the time it was without human occupants. To remedy this, you can do your own pest control or hire in a professional.
9.) Check For Water Leaks: Once your water is turned on, you need to double check for leaks in your home. Sure, your home inspector is supposed to take care of this prior to closing, but sometimes more minor leaks can be overlooked. Look for running toilets, dripping faucets and water leaks around your water heater. A good rule of thumb to use is this: determine what your water meter reads, then go back and check it after two hours. Be sure to use no water during this time. If your water meter reading is different from two hours prior, this indicates you have a leak.
10.) Consider Having Your Carpets Professionally Cleaned: Before moving in your furniture, you might want to have your carpets professionally cleaned or rent a machine and do it yourself. This will ensure your furnishings are being placed in a clean area.
Complete the 10 steps listed above to get your home set up properly and in a timely, stressfree manner.