
Moving into a new house is a process that takes a lot of time and energy. There is much to do besides packing and unpacking. However, a thoughtful plan will help you to simplify it and do it more efficiently. First, get familiar with your home and its systems, and prioritize what you want to do first. Do it all immediately instead of waiting and trying to figure it out later. To help make things easier, we have compiled a list of the 10 most important things you need to do when moving into a new home.
Create moving check-list
When you enter your new home, keeping track of all the tasks you and your family must do can be difficult. To avoid this, keep a notebook somewhere easily accessible and jot down all tasks as they come to your mind. Cut the list off after 24 hours and prioritize the items with one, two, or three. Things with a level one priority should be done in the upcoming week, including safety, cleaning, and unpacking the basics. Level two tasks should be done within the next two months, including organization and maintenance. Finally, level three tasks, like landscaping and renovations, are non-essential but should be done within the year.
Walk through your new house
An advantageous move before moving into a new house is to walk through it while it is empty, if possible. Looking at the space as a blank slate allows you to plan how to place your possessions. It is wise to bring a measuring tape to most accurately determine where to put furniture, which will make moving the items when the time comes much more accessible.
Don't forget to ensure that all the sale terms have been completed. Inspect any repairs meant to be done, ensure appliances are left as promised and verify that all light switches, sockets, and fixtures are working. If any problems arise, it is best to expedite addressing them with whoever is responsible.
Plan unpacking
It might be alluring to jump right in, but when you randomly start unpacking the boxes, you'll end up with only part of the items you need. To avoid this, carefully label each box and plan what should be done first at the new house. This might be setting up the kitchen, or the living room, depending on which one you need more. Come up with a list of must-haves you need to have up and to run right away, and stick to that plan as you unpack.
The good thing is that you don't have to do it all on your own. It is much better to entrust these tasks to professionals! If you are looking for a reliable moving company in Chicago, apply to Move4U. A team of local professional handyman movers will take care of everything from packing up your belongings to moving them to your new home.
Ensure that your utilities are ready for use
Before moving into your new house:
- Ensure the utilities (electricity, gas, water, Wi-Fi, etc) are ready to be used.
- On the day of the move, double-check they are set up and in working condition.
- In addition, contact the local waste management facility to be sure your new residence is subscribed to garbage pick-up services. For a proper inspection, you can call gas and water experts, or electricians in Sacramento, Folsom, or wherever you are. You can choose to do this whenever you find a house that you want to buy and before you move into that house or you can do some inspection after you move in to prevent any damages and to have them ready for use.
Install a security system
When considering safety, you must feel secure in your new residence. Everyone will have different views when it comes to safety. It's a good idea to change the locks of a new house to keep past tenants from entering, set up motion sensors or cameras, install a smart doorbell, and establish a complete home defense network. There is now a range of helpful resources that you can use to measure the level of safety in your vicinity and decide which measures are best for protecting your residence. It is always wise to be cautious.
Change an address
Ensure all communication has your new address listed by forwarding your mail, adjusting your credit card billing address, and other services/retailers that store your data. Contact your local bank and insurance company, plan a visit to the DMV, and inform your friends and family of your new address.
Meet your new neighbors
Making connections with the people that live near your new home is a nice thing to do once you've moved in. Not only does it create a positive relationship in your neighborhood right off the bat, but it can also be a great way to learn about the community and get recommendations for any services you might need. So don't be shy! You will not have to go door to door, but keeping an open and friendly attitude when you meet your neighbors can help make your new house feel like a home. Luckily, there are various social media platforms specifically geared toward helping you connect with people in your community.
Residing in a new house can be stressful, but following the earlier steps can simplify a move. You may seek assistance from an acquaintance, family member, or an experienced service provider, like move4umovers.com, because it can be a great deal to manage. Taking care of the basic stuff will make your new dwelling feel like a proper home. Good luck!