Congratulations on closing the deal on your new house! As you get ready to move in and make your new house a home, a little bit of planning can go a long way. From transferring utilities to finding local professionals, here are some tips to help you settle in with ease.
Whether you’re moving to Weehawken, NJ, Beacon, NY, or Sarasota, FL, this guide will provide practical advice to make your move as smooth as possible.
Before moving into your new home
Before your moving day, there are a few essential tasks you should take care of to ensure a smooth transition and make your new place feel like home right away.
1. Transfer and set up utilities, internet, and mail
Make sure to transfer essential services like electricity, gas, water, and trash into your name before moving in. Schedule internet and cable installation early and set up mail forwarding through USPS. Notify important contacts of your address change and update your subscriptions and deliveries.
2. Prioritize comfort and essentials
Pack a few boxes with essential items for your first night in your new home, including kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, and other essential supplies. Proper packing is crucial to prevent damage during the move.
For the kitchen:
- Plates, bowls, cups, utensils
- Cookware
- Cleaning supplies
For the bedroom:
- Sheets, pillows, blankets
- Curtains, blinds
- Lamps, nightlights
3. Sort out trash and recycling services
Know your local trash and recycling pickup schedule to avoid missed collections. Contact your local services to obtain bins if they are not provided with your new home.
4. Create a list of trusted local professionals
Research and compile a list of trusted local professionals like plumbers, electricians, handymen, and veterinarians. Your real estate agent may be able to recommend professionals they’ve worked with in the area.
5. Do a final walk-through of your old place
Before leaving your previous home, do a final check to ensure you haven’t forgotten anything. Open cabinets, closets, and drawers, take out the trash, and double-check everything is in order.
Tips for move-in day
As move-in day arrives, follow these tips to stay organized and prepared during the first busy days in your new home.
6. Do a deep clean
Give your new home a thorough clean before unpacking to reach areas that may be difficult to access later. Consider renting a carpet cleaner for carpets and wipe down surfaces with a gentle cleaning solution.
7. Check your home for any immediate issues
Walk through your empty home to identify any issues like damage, leaks, or maintenance issues that need attention. Addressing small problems early can save you time and money in the long run.
8. Measure and plan your layout
Measure key areas in your home before furniture arrives to plan your layout and avoid last-minute surprises. Knowing the dimensions of your furniture and rooms will help you arrange your space efficiently.
9. Coordinate with movers and manage the flow
Direct movers on where to place furniture and boxes to avoid having to rearrange later. Keep track of deliveries and note any damages. Having a layout in mind will streamline the process.
10. Secure and prep your new home
Change locks or add a security system for protection. Schedule pest control if needed and ensure your home is safe and secure.
Tips for your first week in your new home
The first week in your new home is crucial for getting settled and familiar with your surroundings. Unpack room by room and start testing systems and creating a maintenance checklist.
11. Unpack room by room, starting with the basics
Prioritize unpacking one room at a time, starting with essentials like the kitchen and bathroom. This approach helps you maintain order and prevent overwhelm.
12. Test systems and create a home maintenance checklist
Check major appliances, smoke detectors, and HVAC systems to ensure everything is functioning properly. Create a maintenance checklist for ongoing tasks like replacing filters and cleaning gutters.
13. Locate key home infrastructure
Find important home infrastructure like the circuit breaker, water shut-off valve, and gas shut-off to be prepared for emergencies.
14. Review your inspection report and tackle high-priority fixes
Review your inspection report for any immediate repairs or safety concerns that need attention. Addressing small issues early can prevent larger problems later on.
15. Get settled into your neighborhood
Explore your neighborhood to find essential amenities and introduce yourself to neighbors to start building a sense of community.
16. Update legal and personal records
Update your address on important documents like driver’s license and voter registration to avoid mail delivery issues.
Tips for your second week in your new home
In your second week, focus on organizing storage areas, handling state-specific needs, and installing security and privacy features.
17. Install home security and privacy features
Protect your home by adding security measures like video doorbells, alarm systems, and smart locks. Enhance privacy with blinds or curtains and outdoor lighting.
18. Organize your storage areas
Organize closets, pantries, and cabinets for optimal use. Choose an organization method that works best for you to maintain order in your storage areas.
19. Handle state-specific needs
If your move crosses state lines, register your vehicle and update your insurance policies accordingly. Check with local authorities to ensure compliance with state requirements.
10. Review or update your home insurance policy
Review your home insurance policy to ensure it reflects your new address and property needs accurately.
Tips for the end of your first month in your new home
Personalize your space, review your budget, and consider long-term maintenance and energy-saving measures to keep your home in top shape.
21. Reevaluate your monthly budget
Adjust your budget to accommodate new expenses and plan for home improvements and maintenance tasks.
22. Personalize your space
Decorate your home with personal touches like art, rugs, and décor pieces that reflect your style and personality.
23. Upgrade your routines with smart home devices
Incorporate smart home technology like programmable thermostats and automated lighting to simplify tasks and make your home more efficient.
24. Consider long-term protection and energy savings
Protect your home with a home warranty and schedule a free energy audit to improve efficiency and reduce utility costs.
25. Prepare for emergencies
Create a home emergency plan and ensure everyone in your household knows where to find essentials in case of emergencies.
Tips for moving into a new house at the 1-year mark
Celebrate your one-year milestone by hosting a housewarming party and checking off maintenance tasks to keep your home in top shape for years to come.
- Schedule annual HVAC servicing
- Clean gutters and inspect the roof
- Review homeowners insurance coverage
- Check appliances for wear
- Reflect on home goals or potential upgrades
- Reorganize cluttered areas