Just purchased a home? Here's 10 things you should be doing
You did it! After hours of MLS searches, countless home viewings, bids, contracts, and financial paperwork, you finally scored the home you’ve been so patiently hunting for. And we know – after the pretty intense process that goes into making a house your own, you’re probably ready for a nice glass of wine, a spa day, hours of binge tv, or a nice, long nap.
But don’t zone out just yet! Purchasing a home is only the beginning of your journey, and there are definitely some specific things you should be working on after finally making your home purchase official.
So, take a look – here are some of the biggest things that should be on your radar post home purchase:
File your closing paperwork away
Ok, these seems like it should almost just be a given, right? But especially when you’re moving, packing things away in boxes, and have some of your most important items in less than optimal places, it can be to lose track of your closing paperwork. Well, here’s your reminder – file it away! Whether it’s in a safe place within a desk, cabinet, safe deposit box, or the like, be sure you know where your closing paperwork is located and that it’s easily accessible. You never know when you might need it again.
Change or program your locks
Especially if the home that you’re moving into is one that has had previous tenants, you’re going to want to make sure your new house is secure. Since we’re in the age of digital locks, if that’s included with your house, it will be easy enough to simply re-program it with a new code. However, if you have a traditional lock, you’ll want to make sure that you have it changed to make sure only you (and those that you choose) have access to your home. Another option? Consider replacing your standard lock with the digital one we mentioned before. Not only do these make things especially easy for you and family, they’re also hure when it comes to allowing access for hired help (like nannies or cleaning companies).
Look into your home warranty (or review it)
If you’ve purchased a home (especially if it’s brand new), you may have a home warranty that’s been included with your purchase. That means that somewhere, there’s documented details on everything that’s covered with your home by the manufacturer (or extended warranty holder) in specific situations. Often, depending on timing, this can mean coverage for everything from the water heater, to your plumbing fixtures. Make sure you know exactly what you’re covered for, when, and how to make a claim. You never know when something may unexpectedly break or a repair need might pop up.
Make sure all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors work
This one is huge, because not only is it a standard to-do item you should check off of your list, it’s also a huge matter of safety. You’ll want to make sure you’ve identified every smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector in the house (a good rule of thumb is that every room should have at least one, depending on its size). Ensure that you’ve identified what each detector does, that each has a fresh set of batteries, and that all detectors are functioning properly.
Set up your garage openers and program your cars
To make your life easier, you’ll want to make sure you have easy access to your garage. Whether this is through a stand=alone remote, or you can program access via your car, the goal is to ensure you can easily get into your garage whenever you have a need, on the fly. And while this may seem like common sense, this task can sometimes get lost in the extensive to-do list most new home owners are trying to stay afloat in.
Change your address
Ok, ok – this is a given right? While this may seem like a “common sense” item to check off your list when moving, it’s amazing how easily this can get put off (or some places where your address needs to be changed can be forgotten). So, here’s your friendly reminder – change your address in all the places that need it! This should include updates with::
The post office (AKA forwarding your mail)
DMV (and an updated driver’s license)
Credit cards
Insurance
Medical entities
Recurring subscriptions
Friends/family
We know, it’s a long list that can definitely feel time consuming. But knocking this out sooner rather than later can save you missed mail, late bills, or simply having to complete the change later.
Paint
Of course you can paint after you’ve moved into a home – but the process definitely becomes that much more difficult. If you can, paint the walls of your home before you move in. Not only does this make it less likely that you’ll get paint on furnishings that you love, it will also ensure you have the ability to work without as much space restriction. Or, if you choose, will make sure the company you hire has the space to bring in ladders, supplies, etc. to get the job done.
Set up your utilities
If you’re purchasing a new build, typically, your builder will remind you to have all of your utilities turned on before move-in. Likewise, if you’re purchasing an already lived in home, you’ll want to make sure you’ve transferred all utilities into your name by the time you actually move in (preventing a lapse in power for you, and ensuring you have everything you need to get settled in). Often, this can be done quickly online, or by calling your old and new utility company (if they’re different) to set an appropriate start and end date.
Order furniture/decorate
For many, moving into a new home means having the opportunity to level-up your furnishings and decor. That can mean new living room furniture, art, a new bed, and so much more. For some, waiting until they’re actually moved in is an easy way to identify exactly what they want to purchase and an opportunity to be inspired by the space. Plus, they can unpack their current belongings and really decide what they want to refresh and what is ok to stay. But for others, ordering new furniture and house decorations can be 10x easier when done right after their new home is purchased. That way, the “moving of furniture is only done once, and everything in their home is comfortably in their style more quickly.
Meet your neighbors
People are busy with crazy work schedules, kids, and obligations. But, when you move to a new neighborhood, meeting your fellow neighbors can be the icing on top of the cake. Especially if you live in a location shared by those that have similar interests, family dynamics, and more, not only can a simple “hello” be the start of making new friends – it can help to make your neighborhood safer. By knowing those that surround your home, and being on friendly terms, your neighborhood can look out for one another, be better equipped to identify suspicious activity, and can make the neighborhood a much friendlier place to be.
We know that moving comes with its own miles long to-do list, new obligations, and a ton of things to remember as you begin to make your house a home. But by remembering these important key items, you’ll not only have a great start in your moving journey, you’ll be able to save yourself some time in the long run.
