6 Things to Do When Moving into a New Home

1. Change Your Address

This should be first on your list of things to do. Make sure that all of your bills, credit cards, and retailers have your new address. Make appointments with your bank and the DMV to change your accounts and your driver's license address. Visit your post office to see that all of your mail is forwarded to your new address to prevent any missed bills or other vital correspondence.

Don’t forget to send a change of address notice to family, friends, and anyone else who may send items to your home. With most finances online, it should be simple to go to websites and change your personal information. This simple step will assist in making the moving process a smooth one.

2. Connect Utilities

You will need running water and power to make your move-in day smooth and simple. Plan ahead to schedule connection dates and times for electricity, water, and gas companies to get activated. It is important to have your home fully functional before moving in to prevent sleeping in the dark or not having the ability to flush toilets the first night.

You may also want to consider connecting wifi and cable for quick internet and TV access upon your arrival. Reach out to your local waste management company to set up garbage services and see that garbage cans are delivered before moving in. Moving day will be less stressful if everything is in working order and functioning properly.

3. Final Walkthrough

Take the opportunity to carefully inspect your new home while it's empty. Make sure all appliances are properly installed and in working order. Flip every light switch, plug into all of the outlets, and turn on every faucet to verify they are functioning and operating. Make sure doors, walls, and the inside of closets are painted.

Check windows for cracks and make sure they open and close easily. Check that all baseboards were installed properly and look for any areas that need caulking or paint touch-ups. Make a list of any needed repairs and give it to your builder or real estate agent after your walkthrough.

4. Deep Cleaning

The final construction phase of your new home or a home that has been unoccupied for a while can leave a layer of dust that can easily be removed. Before moving in boxes and furniture, take the time to deep clean cupboards, drawers, and closets. Remove any grime and dust, and give it a good cleaning that will provide a move-in ready space.

The fresh smell of cleaning products and lighting a candle can make it feel like home as you carry in your personal items. Use newspapers and Windex on the glass and windows for a polished finish. Your house will sparkle as you unload boxes and begin to establish your new space.

5. Essential Home List Items

Upon moving into your new home, take the time to make a list of items that will need your attention. Locate the air-conditioning vents to see what type of filter is needed and how often they need to be changed. Find your electrical panel and become familiar with the different fuses and switches.

Find the water shut-off valve to your home in case of emergencies or any unforeseen flooding. Get to know your home well and file home and appliance warranties together. Keep your yearly to-do list available for scheduled maintenance to keep your house in good condition for years to come.

6. Get to Know Your Neighbors

While you are moving in and getting settled, make sure to reach out to neighbors who can provide helpful knowledge and recommendations regarding local services available to you. If there is a neighborhood watch, you can join it or create one if it has not been established. You can ask about local events or the dynamics of the neighborhood.

Any friendly gestures can go a long way in getting to know the people who live near you. It is nice to have close neighbors who watch out for you and your family and alert you to anything suspicious in the neighborhood. It may be beneficial to research the many social platforms for neighborhood communications as well.