Your belongings are boxed up, the moving truck is scheduled, and you’ve recruited family and friends to help unload on moving day. Moving to a new home is an exciting time, but before you start unpacking the truck, here’s a to-do list you should take care of before you start filling your new home with boxes.
Change the Locks
At closing, you’ll receive the keys to your home, but as soon as you get them it’s a good idea to replace the locks on exterior doors. You don’t know how many spare keys were made by the previous owners and who they gave them to, so for peace of mind, replace them yourself or hire a locksmith to do it for you.
Clean Top-to-Bottom
While it’s common courtesy for previous owners to do a sweep before moving out, unfortunately it’s not always the case. Even if the sellers did leave the home in a relatively clean state, we suggest going over it again before moving all of your stuff in. At a minimum, perform these cleaning tasks:
-
- Wash down cabinets, counters, and plumbing fixtures.
-
- Clean Carpets. You can rent a steam carpet cleaner for around $30/day or hire a professional for approximately $50/room. If the previous owner had pets, we recommend the latter!
-
- Mop and steam clean hard surface floors.
-
- Clean the refrigerator, oven, and microwave thoroughly.
-
- Wipe down crown molding and baseboards.
-
- Wash blinds/window coverings and screens.
- Dust vents, fans, and light fixtures.
Replace Old, Mismatched, or Damaged Fixtures
Mismatched outlets, cover plates, air vent covers, etc. are relatively common in an older home. Make the investment to replace those that are cracked, rusted, outdated, etc. The uniformity will make your home feel incredibly updated!
Have the Mechanical Systems Serviced
Depending on the last service date of the previous owner, it may be a good idea to have the heating and cooling systems inspected, cleaned, and serviced. You should also strongly consider having the air ducts professionally cleaned to improve the efficiency of your heating and cooling systems.
Call the Exterminator
Even if there are no known pests in the home, you’re better safe than sorry. Have an exterminator come spray for routine nuisances; you never know what critters have made your house home (especially if the house sat vacant for a while).
Freshen Up the Paint
Before creating an obstacle course of furniture in your home, paint any rooms you wish to paint prior to moving in, if possible. Even if you’re not doing a whole-house makeover, you’ll be surprised with how much a fresh coat of trim and ceiling paint can brighten your home’s appearance.
Familiarize Yourself
Know where your main circuit breaker is and test it to make sure each label is assigned correctly. Additionally, locate where the main water shut-off valve is and make sure all of your smoke detectors are in working order.
For more ideas on making moving a breeze, follow us on Pinterest. Happy moving!! And if you are considering moving soon, take a look at our Pre-Approval Vs. Loan Commitment Handbook!