You closed the deal on your new home, got the keys and you’re about to move in. Your life is packed into boxes (who knew you owned so much stuff) and a new chapter awaits. It’s an exciting time but it’s also stressful, hectic and complex to say the least. We’re realtors but we’re also home owners at The Munir Group, so we think we know a few things about moving. That’s why we want to help you keep things in check, so you don’t miss anything on moving day.
Keep reading for our list of the most important tasks you should do as you move into your new home.
Let’s get started!
Switch over the utilities
Sometimes utilities are transferred for you when you close on a property but usually, they aren’t. Of course, you’ll want electricity, water, heating etc. the moment you’re moved in so be proactive and get everything switched over straight away. The last thing you want is to be left exhausted and in the dark after a long day of moving.
Change your mailing address
While this task could wait until later, why not get it out of the way when your switching your utilities. Drivers license, postal service, credit cards or other lenders and any other entity that still sends you physical mail these days will need your attention. Do it now so you don’t forget about it later.
Set up the Internet
Let’s face it, we’re in 2020 now and living without the internet (even for a day) can really throw you a curveball. This is especially true if you have kids! You’ll likely know your move-in date beforehand, so why not get ahead of the ball and book an appointment with your provider right away. This way you won’t be waiting for them to show up in a couple days, or next week, while you’re basically left sitting with your hands tied in the meantime.
Bring some cash along
It’s a hectic day (moving day) and you’ll never know what you’ll need. You might want to tip the movers, grab some food, pay a neighbor to help out, send someone on a water run – who knows. Not everyone takes credit and you won’t have time to visit an ATM once things get rolling, so plan ahead and be prepared by filling your wallet with some cold hard cash.
Move your pets last
You think moving day is stressful for you? What you’re feeling is nothing compared to what your pets are going through. Their life is being upended and they don’t even understand why. Take a cautionary approach and leave the pets at home (in a closed off room) until you’re mostly settled and ready to bring them over. Bring all their stuff (blankets, beds, dishes and more) first and have things sort of set up in a confined area when they arrive. These little comforts of home can do your pets stress levels a world of good, which in turn will make things easier on you. Sequester your pets into the area you prepared so they can acclimatize in peace and quiet while you finish up. Treat it as if you were bringing your pets home for the first time and don’t overwhelm them.
Plug in the fridge
Sounds simple, but you’d be amazed how many new home owners miss this one. We recommend that one of the first things you do when you walk through the door of your new home is plug in the refrigerator. Cold beers, cold water, a bottle of champagne (to celebrate of course) or just left overs from lunch – they all need a cold fridge to be at their best. Plugging in the fridge straight away also lets you know if it’s working correctly or not, in which case you’ll want to figure out a plan quickly.
Change the locks and set up security
The locks on your doors and the security system are what keeps your home safe. Who knows how many people have copies of the house keys from the precious owner, so changing the locks should a top priority for your peace of mind. A locksmith can change your locks in no time at all, so booking an appointment as soon as you get ownership is highly recommended. If you operate a security system, you’ll want to set that up too.
Other considerations to make your move easier:
• Order food and drinks for yourself, movers and for after your moving task is complete (include water).
• Decide on sleeping arrangements ahead of time because you may not have time to set up everyone’s bed the same day.
• Don’t be shy! Say hello to the neighbors if you see them!
• Don’t stress and try to enjoy the move! It’s a big day but it’s the start of something new so take the first steps with positivity.
