You did it! You have won the bidding war, navigated the inspection and repairs, and you’ve successfully made your way past the closing table! Before you officially move in though, there are a few things you’ll want to make sure you check off the list, or you may begin to notice a few more things that you might need help with. Let this list be your guide next time you’re transitioning into a new living space.

Transfer and Activate Services

Before moving into your 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 utilities, such as water/sewer, sanitation, electrical, gas, internet, television, cleaning, pest control, and/or landscaping services, and a list of new utilities 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 you cannot transfer or for services, you don’t currently have, plan to close out your account or schedule a shut-off date and then establish new accounts with providers that 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.

Address Updates

While you are forwarding your utility services, make a point to also officially update your address with the DMV and 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 that you should consider are: employers, banks, 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 likely won’t know 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 is extremely important for your family’s overall 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. Many homes are offering high-tech security systems to convey with the sale these days, and while this is 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 likely want to take care of. Deep cleaning the refrigerator, bathrooms, and carpets might be an important step to make you feel more comfortable in your new home. You’ll also want to be sure to 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 home emergency headaches in the future.

We Need Help!

Did you know that we have a huge list of local vendors that we would love to share? Whether you need to have some walls painted, found a leak, want to rip out the kitchen, or just need someone to cut the lawn, we have recommendations! We want to help take as much off of your plate as possible so that you can enjoy your home to the fullest. 

While moving may come with stress, try to use it as an opportunity to set yourself up for years of homeowner success. These helpful tips will help you enjoy your new home and all that it has to offer in a safe and comfortable way. Besides, the sooner you can check these important tasks off your list, the sooner you can settle in, decorate, and get to know your new neighborhood!