5 Critical Things to Do Immediately After Moving Into a New Home
So you’ve completed your moving-out checklist, and now it’s time to start moving into your new home. You’re undoubtedly ready to begin unpacking and getting everything settled, but you’ll want to make sure you take care of some critical steps as soon as you can.
Read on to learn five things to do after moving into a new home.
1. Do a Walkthrough of the Home
When moving day comes along, it’s a good idea to take your time conducting a thorough walkthrough of your new home.
Before you have unpacked items cluttering each room, you can familiarize yourself with every nook and cranny. This will also help make organizing your belongings easier when you do unpack.
During this walkthrough, also confirm that everything is in working order, including light switches, outlets, and appliances.
2. Child and Pet Proof
If you have a young child or pet, then you’ll want to pet-proof and childproof your home as soon as possible. Put up your childproof locks, gate the stairs, plug outlets, and make sure your windows and doors are locked.
When unpacking your belongings, make sure you place medications and cleaning solutions on high shelves — inaccessible to young ones or pets.
Be sure to secure any unstable furniture. Children and pets will naturally run, jump, and climb while playing. Prevent things like bookshelves, TVs, or other large pieces of furniture from tipping over. Use brackets or anchors to secure them safely.
3. Conduct a Deep Clean
Even if your home is cleaned before you moved in, you’ll want to conduct your own deep clean after officially moving in. This is because, once you’ve unpacked, you’ll probably be left with some dust and garbage. Cleaning your new house is also a great way to make it feel homey right away and start fresh.
If it’s a large home and you have the budget for it, you might even consider highering a professional cleaning service.
4. Prioritize Repairs
Whether you’re relocating to a brand new home or one previously lived in, you’ll want to start thinking about repairs from the get-go. New or old homes may have structural or aesthetic features that you want to change. Older homes may also have wear and tear that needs to be worked on or replaced.
Once you move in, make a list of all repairs that you want to make to your home in the coming months and prioritize them in order of importance. Then, when you’re settled, you’ll already know where to start.
5. Change the Locks
When you move into a new home, an essential thing to do is change all locks on the doors. Even if you’re not worried about the previous owner, you never know who has a key or access to the home. For your family’s safety and your peace of mind, it’s best to have the locks changed just in case.
You can change your locks on your own, but hiring a locksmith may make the process easier and more efficient.
Take These Steps After Moving Into a New Home
Moving into a new home is exciting, but moving day isn’t the end of the process. Ensure that you follow each of these five tips to make the process easier, safer, and more rewarding.
If you’re moving soon, make sure to check our local moving services today.
