To-Do List Before Moving into a New Home

After the hard work of finding your dream home & going through the mortgage process, you have finally closed on your new home and have the keys in your hand. What a sense of relief and excitement you are feeling! But before you move in and throw a house-warming party, there are some crucial actions you must take to ensure your family’s security, comfort and peace of mind.

Before you move your belongings, take a day or two to prepare the home. It is so much easier to accomplish these steps when the home is empty, so schedule the time to take advantage of this unique opportunity that will only come once!

  • Change the locks. Chances are good that the former owners are not the only people who have keys to your new home. Also, change security codes and reprogram garage door openers.
  • Clean the home from top to bottom. An empty home will afford you the chance to clean it like never again! Steam cleaning carpets (or even replacing them) and sealing wood floors is much easier now. If there is repainting you want to do, now is the perfect time, with no furniture to move, work around, or protect from drips.
  • Replace filters. We immediately think about the furnace and air conditioning filters, but there are a few others that are inexpensive and easy to change: the range hood filter in the kitchen, the aeration screens on the faucets, and the supply-line water filter.
  • Technology updates. Outfitting your home with new technology is also easier if you don’t have to move furniture around. Now is the time to install new lighting controls, internet access, television and cable service, and wiring for remote audio system speakers. Also, consider installing central air conditioning and a central vacuum cleaner if the home lacks them.
  • Develop a professional call list. You will need a group of professionals to help maintain your new home. Check with the former owners to learn what plumbers, electricians, HVAC company, fuel service and landscape professionals they used. Also, ask your new neighbors for recommendations. Compiling this information at the outset will ensure you are prepared when you need services.
Get Familiar with Your Home’s Infrastructure

Check out the major plumbing, heating and cooling systems as soon as you move in also. Make sure you know where the circuit breakers are located and which breaker controls which circuit. Find the main water valve and make sure it’s functional. Do a thorough inspection to look for signs of leaks and to listen for running toilets. Again, it is much easier to do this when your home is empty and systems, or problems, are most visible and easier to hear.

Mortgage Investors Group supports customers in attaining their dream homes. Our reputation for delivering unparalleled service aligns borrowers with the best solution for their financing needs. We offer a diversified line of residential mortgage products, including government and conventional loans, for purchase and refinancing. We are based in Tennessee and have nearly 400 employees in 25 offices in seven states who are ready to support your home purchase.

Share