To-do List Before Moving In

The moment has arrived – your new home has been purchased, the inspections are behind you, and the closing date is firmly on the calendar. But what lies ahead? The thought of packing up your life and transitioning to a new space can be daunting, especially when you consider the preparations needed at your new abode. To simplify the process, here's a checklist of 8 crucial tasks to address before your moving day.

Activate Your Utilities
Before you can embark on any repairs or cleaning in your new home, it's imperative to have your utilities up and running. While cable TV and internet might not be your top priority, ensuring you have water, electricity, and gas is essential.

Attend to Inspection Findings
Your home inspection likely revealed areas needing immediate attention. Depending on your purchase agreement, you may need to address these issues post-closing. It's wise to tackle major repair tasks before moving in, particularly those related to plumbing, electrical systems, or roofing.

Deep Clean Every Nook and Cranny
Though the previous occupants may have tidied up, a thorough, deep clean is always advisable. You can either take on this task yourself or opt for professional cleaning services to save time. Pay special attention to areas such as cabinets, closets, flooring, appliances, and bathrooms. Don't forget to check closet floors and ensure shelves in closets, pantries, or cabinets are spotless. For floors, enlist professional carpet cleaners and assess hardwood, laminate, or tile flooring for any necessary maintenance. Consider replacing toilet seats as well.

Install Additional Storage and Shelving
If you envisioned adding extra shelving, cabinets, or storage space to your new home, completing these modifications before you move in is best. This ensures you can stow away your belongings immediately, eliminating the need to unpack boxes after your new storage features are in place. This advice applies equally to new homebuyers who want custom design options or changes to flooring.

Finish Interior Painting
If you plan to repaint or touch up existing walls in your new home, completing this task is prudent before bringing in furniture and possessions. This simplifies the process for you and the painters, as they won't have to move and cover furniture. Schedule the painting job after any additional construction but before installing new flooring or having existing flooring cleaned.

Arrange Pest Control Services
Whether you're aware of a pest problem or not, scheduling pest control services before moving in is wise. This preemptive measure is especially beneficial if you have pets, as it allows time for the extermination methods to take effect before your arrival.

Reset Your Garage Door Code
While it's likely that the previous homeowners provided you with all the garage door openers, it's a prudent step to reset the code to ensure security. This recommendation applies equally to new homebuyers, as garage door opener codes are often left unchanged from the manufacturer's default.

Change Locks and Keys
Last but certainly not least, changing your locks and keys is paramount before settling into your new home. Throughout the home-selling process, keys circulate among various individuals, from handymen to inspectors and real estate agents. Additionally, homeowners commonly distribute backup keys to trusted individuals. Despite receiving copies of all keys at closing, knowing who might possess extra copies is impossible. After addressing all necessary repairs, cleaning, and construction, hire a locksmith to change your locks, ensuring that only you have access to your new house keys.