Turning Your New House Into a Home

There are several things to think about getting done when you move into your new house. While some may be more obvious than others, here is a list of what needs to be done with some helpful tips as you plan.

Tackle the kitchen first

The kitchen is the heart of the home where everyone can sit and gather and it is where your important meals are had. Set up the kitchen as one of the first rooms even if you plan on dining out a lot while getting settled.

Clean before unpacking

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

Furniture placement

You may have a good idea of how you want to arrange your furniture from when you toured the home, but if you are at a loss you can either set it up like your previous residence or review the listing photos and follow how the seller had it. You can always rearrange it after living in it for a while.

Gather paperwork

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

Utilities and Address

You should have been able to set up your utilities and change your address before moving but if not then do it immediately. This is also an ideal time to make sure you order any other services you may need such as lawn care, pool care, etc.

Change door locks and codes

Once you move in you should arrange to have the locks changed as you never know who may have copies. Also reset or change any other codes such as garages or any keypads too.

Smoke detectors

This is a great time to test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors for proper function as well as 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 the fun activities like selecting 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 more of a challenge as you cannot tell them what is happening and how to prepare. Avoid washing their toys and beds so they retain their smell and place these items in the home prior to letting them in so they have the familiar scents.

Locate important shutoffs and extinguishers

Avoid fumbling through the dark looking for the circuit panel in the dark or scramble to find the water shut off should there be a plumbing problem. Get familiar with the location of all important controls for the home as soon as you move in.

Tour the neighborhood

Walking or biking the neighborhood is a fine way to not only check out the nearby parks and businesses but can also assist you with meeting the neighbors. Introduce yourself, family members and also your pets.

Celebrate and relax

After you have completed all of the essentials then take time to enjoy your new home and relax. It can be opening a bottle of champagne in your new kitchen or enjoying your favorite take out on the back patio. It is now yours!