When moving into a new home, there are many factors to consider. Unpacking is not the only obstacle to fully settling in. Familiarizing yourself with your new house, understanding its functions, and prioritizing tasks are essential responsibilities of being a homeowner.
It is recommended to address these matters immediately, rather than postponing and assuming you will handle them later. Admittedly, you may already have numerous obligations, but to assist you in organizing your tasks, we have compiled a concise list of the top 5 essential things to do when moving into a new home.
Do a complete walkthrough
Before moving to San Francisco from Los Angeles and moving anything into your new house, it is advisable to thoroughly inspect it while it is empty. This includes checking that any repairs requested and agreed upon by the previous owner have been completed, ensuring that all items included in the sale are present, and confirming that everything is in proper working condition, such as outlets, switches, fixtures, doors, and windows.
Additionally, ensure that the warranties and maintenance guides are left behind by the seller, and that the house is clean, free from any dirt, debris, mold, or pests. Assess the condition of the lawn, and also make sure that all your furniture will fit in the new space.
In case you discover any issues that violate the terms of the sale contract, such as the previous owner taking appliances that were supposed to remain, it is crucial to contact your realtor immediately to discuss your options. For any other issues not covered by the contract, you are now responsible for addressing and resolving them.
Locate the fuse box and water valve
It is advisable to locate the fuse box and water valve beforehand to avoid searching for them in urgent situations. Knowing their positions in advance will allow you to reach them promptly in case of a power outage or when you need to shut off the water. Usually, the fuse box is situated in the basement, garage, or storage room, while the water valve can be found somewhere along the outer edges of your house.
Perform a deep cleaning session
After completing the task of moving, it is likely that the last thing you would want to do is thoroughly clean your new home. However, it is actually best to clean your new home immediately after moving. Here are some steps to follow:
1. Begin by cleaning the higher areas before the lower ones.
2. Prioritize cleaning the fridge first.
3. Proceed to clean the rest of the kitchen.
4. Clean the bathrooms next.
5. Lastly, clean the floors as the final step.
Change your locks
Changing the locks on your new home is a recommended precautionary measure. Even if you are not worried about the previous owner, there is always a possibility that someone else may have a copy of a key. It is a situation where it is wiser to prioritize safety rather than regret later, so consider arranging for a locksmith to assist you, or if you are confident, you can change the locks on your own.
Make sure to rekey all the locks on doors connecting the inside and outside of your house, as well as those on the windows. The cost of this small step is minimal compared to the immense peace of mind it provides.
Meet your neighbors
It is much more convenient and less uncomfortable to meet your neighbors soon after you have relocated to a new place. Apart from establishing a good relationship with the people in your neighborhood, meeting your neighbors can also provide you with valuable information about the community and recommendations for local services when required.
It is not necessary to visit every house, but it is important to take the opportunity to introduce yourself the first time you encounter a new neighbor.
