With all the stress of buying a home, we forget there are things to do after buying. Having a checklist of things to do when moving into your new home will make the enormous task of moving so much easier.
Nobody really likes moving, it’s tedious.
Before moving, you would have handled the home inspection and other types of inspections. Additionally, the seller has to fix certain things for you. At some point, you will have to check everything to make sure everything is working to your satisfaction.
Furthermore, during the final walkthrough with your agent, you will have to check for plumbing leaks, reviewed where your water shut-off valve is located, and you are confident you can find and open the electrical meter.
After buying what to do
Firstly, don’t plan for major remodels until you have stayed in the house for a while. You may find you made a mistake by removing a wall and years later you need a wall there.
Furthermore, work through the after process step by step because the moving day will likely be stressful. After that, things will tend to fall into place.
Things to consider after moving into your home
After ensuring you have moved with all your possession, how about you check on other things, such as:
Turn on Utilities.
If you haven’t already notified the utility companies to transfer, water, electrical, trash into your name, you need to call. In some counties, county utilities might be transferred by the escrow company instead of the government. It’s a good idea to inquire about this at closing.
The time to find out you have no electricity is not when the sun goes down.
Buy locks/change locks.
You have no idea how many strangers could have keys to your new home. Have a locksmith come and change them. If your door is missing a deadbolt, a locksmith can install that, too.
Most mobile locksmiths charge around 1000 bob to make a home visit, plus extra for the keys. This is a good time to change all the locks to work with a single key.
You don’t want waking up and all your belongings have disappeared.
Set Up Security.
For safety conscious people, ask around for security. Most estates have a joined security deal. However, if you are alone, contact a security company and get security. It is better to be safe than sorry.
Or get a dog.
Look around the area.
It’s important to familiarize yourself with your neighbourhood. Walk around and see how far the basic amenities are.
You might discover something you didn’t know about when you were visiting the place during negotiation period.
Meet the Neighbours.
Hopefully, the neighbours will appear offering greetings. If you spot them eyeing you unloading boxes, invite them over. They may be willing to help or just want to make friendly conversation. Make a special effort to engage with them. You need them.
Remember the ‘nyumba kumi initiative’.
In conclusion, as you are searching for a house, think about after the process. It’s as important as before.