Making Your New House a Home

There are many things to think about getting done when you move into your new house. While some may be more obvious than others, here is an easy checklist of tips and what needs to be done as you plan. 

Set up the kitchen first

The kitchen is the heart of the home. Not only is it where everyone can sit and gather, it is where your important meals are had. Set up the kitchen as one of the first rooms even if you plan on eating out a lot while getting settled. 

Do a cleaning before unpacking

There is no better time to clean the home than before any of your belongings even enter it. If you cannot do a deep clean yourself, line up a professional to assist you. 

Furniture placement

You may have an idea of how you want to arrange things from when you toured the home, but if you are at a loss you can either set it up like your previous home or check the listing photos and follow how the seller had it. Nothing is set in stone and you can always rearrange it after living in it.

Gather paperwork

Things can get hectic after you leave the closing. You will have all of your documents along with others that you collect as you deal with movers etc. Keep a folder with everything together so that nothing gets lost and can be filed away when you move in.

Utilities and Address

You should have been able to transfer your utilities and change your address prior to moving but if not do it immediately. This is also a good time to make sure you line up any other services you may need such as lawn care, pool care, etc. 

Change locks and codes

Once you move in you should arrange to have the locks changed as you don’t know who may have copies from the previous owner. Change any other codes such as garages or any keypads too. 

Smoke detectors

Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors for proper function. This can be a good time as well to replace all of the batteries and get on an annual maintenance cycle. 

Comfort kids and pets

A move can be exciting for kids but with some unsettling moments. Get your children involved in fun activities like picking paint colors and furniture placement in their rooms. Get their help with unpacking their belongings as well so they know where things are. Pets can be even more of a challenge as you cannot tell them what is happening. Avoid washing their toys and beds so they retain their smell. Place these items in the home prior to letting them in so they have the familiar scents. 

Locate important panels, shutoffs and extinguishers

You don’t want to fumble through the dark looking for the circuit panel in the dark or scramble to find the water shut off should there be a plumbing snafu. Get familiar with the location of all important controls for the home as soon as you move in.

Walk or bike around

Walking or biking the neighborhood is a great way to not only check out the nearby parks and businesses but can also help you meet the neighbors. Introduce yourself, family members and even pets. 

Celebrate and relax

Once you have taken care of all of the essentials then take a moment to enjoy your new home and relax. Perhaps it can be opening a bottle of champagne in your new kitchen or enjoying your favorite take out on the lovely new patio. It is now yours!