10 Things New Homeowners Should Do in Their New Home
Congratulations, new homeowners! You’ve just closed on your home, and now the fun begins. Moving into a new space is an exciting adventure, but before you start unpacking and settling in, there are a few important steps to take. Whether you’re moving across town or into your first home, these 10 tasks will ensure that your transition is smooth, secure, and stress-free.
Change the Locks
You can never be too cautious when it comes to security. Even if the previous owners handed over all the keys, it’s best to change the locks right away. You never know how many spare keys might be floating around, and you want to feel confident that your new home is secure.
Consider rekeying your locks instead of replacing them entirely—it’s a quicker and more cost-effective option.
2. Set Up Utilities
Before you move in, make sure all your utilities are set up—water, gas, electricity, internet, and any other essential services you need. It’s always a good idea to confirm with your utility companies that the transfer of services has been completed.
If you haven’t already, schedule your internet and cable services, as it can take time to install new lines or equipment.
3. Take a Good Look Around
Give your new home a thorough walkthrough and assess its condition. Check for any issues you may have missed during the buying process, like cracks in walls, plumbing issues, or electrical concerns.
Take note of the following:
Leaks under sinks or in bathrooms.
Signs of mold in basements or attics.
Faulty outlets or exposed wires.
Cracked tiles or flooring.
If anything needs to be repaired or replaced, now’s the time to start planning.
4. Clean Before Moving In
While your home may look clean on the surface, it’s always worth doing a deep clean before you unpack. You’ll want to scrub kitchen counters, sanitize bathrooms, and vacuum carpets. It’s easier to clean an empty house, and you’ll feel much more comfortable knowing everything is fresh when you move in.
5. Locate the Circuit Breaker and Water Shut-Off Valves
This is an important task that many first-time homeowners forget! Find your circuit breaker panel and label it so you know which switches control which areas of your home. Also, locate the water shut-off valves in case of emergencies, such as a burst pipe.
Knowing where these things are can save you time and frustration down the road.
6. Test Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Safety first! Test the smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re functioning properly. If the batteries are low or if the detectors need to be replaced, do it as soon as possible.
7. Unpack and Organize Gradually
You’ve probably got a ton of boxes to unpack, but don’t feel the need to rush. Take your time to unpack in stages. Start with the essentials like the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom, then work your way through the rest of the house.
Consider organizing your space with a layout plan to avoid unnecessary clutter.
8. Get to Know Your Neighbors
Take the time to introduce yourself to your new neighbors. It’s always good to establish friendly relationships, especially if you have any questions about the neighborhood or the area. A simple “hello” can lead to helpful conversations and may even result in new friendships!
9. Check the Exterior and Yard
Don’t forget about the outside of your home. Make sure that gutters are clean, the roof is in good condition, and the yard is tidy. If you’ve got a garden or lawn to take care of, get familiar with the tools and equipment you’ll need.
Taking care of these outdoor tasks early will help avoid issues later on.
10.Start Building a Maintenance Schedule
Owning a home means maintaining it. Start creating a home maintenance checklist with seasonal tasks like changing air filters, servicing your HVAC system, or cleaning the chimney. Regular upkeep will keep your home in great shape and avoid costly repairs.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget to Enjoy the Process!
While the list may seem long, remember that settling into a new home is an exciting adventure. Enjoy the process of making the space your own—whether that’s through DIY projects, personalizing rooms with decor, or just taking time to relax and enjoy your new space.
Moving into a new home is a big deal, and taking care of these tasks will ensure that you start off on the right foot. From security to maintenance, checking these items off your list will help you feel comfortable and in control in your new space. Take it one step at a time, and before you know it, your new home will feel like your forever home.
Ready to find the perfect home in Kitchener-Waterloo? I’m here to help you every step of the way!