If you have just bought your first home, congratulations! However, there’s so much to think about and organize before you can settle into your new place. To help make the transition smoother, here are 4 key steps to remember.
1. Change the Locks
One of the first things you’ll want to do is get all the locks changed. You don’t know how many previous sets of keys are still out there that can access your new home. Hiring a professional locksmith in Cardiff, like Curley Locks, is highly recommended, as they can install high-quality locks and give you peace of mind.
A good 24-hour Cardiff locksmith will be able to replace the locks on all your doors and windows. They may also suggest adding extra security features like deadbolts, peepholes, and security screens. Discuss your security requirements with the locksmith and they can recommend the best options. Getting the locks changed right away ensures only you have access to your new home.
2. Deep Clean the Property
While the previous owners have likely cleaned the property, consider doing a deep and thorough cleaning yourself. This will remove any leftover dirt, grime, or odors that regular cleaning may have missed.
Scrub down all surfaces like walls, floors, windows, cabinets, appliances, etc. Don’t forget often overlooked areas like inside the oven, behind the fridge, and under sinks. Shampoo the carpets and sanitize the kitchen and bathrooms. This top-to-bottom deep cleaning will leave your new home sparkling clean and move-in ready.
3. Inspect and Test Everything
Take the time to thoroughly inspect and test all the features and appliances in your new home. Check that the plumbing fixtures work well, with adequate hot water pressure. Ensure all plug sockets, overhead lighting, fans, and doorbells are functioning.
Test that appliances like the stove, oven, refrigerator, dishwasher, and washer/dryer operate as they should. Check for any leaks, cracks, or pest infestations. Identifying any issues early allows you to get them fixed before move-in day. This inspection gives you peace of mind that everything works safely and efficiently.
4. Update Utilities and Services
Take care of updating all the utilities and services for your new home. Contact the gas, electric, water, phone, internet, and TV providers to transfer service to your name. Update your address with the post office, banks, employer etc. to prevent any disruption. Forward your mail through the post office until your change of address is fully processed. Doing this admin work ahead of time prevents any hiccups to your utilities or services during your move.
Moving Checklist
Those are 4 key steps that will help ensure your move goes smoothly. Some other helpful moving tips:
- Pack an essentials box with items you’ll need right away like toilet paper, soap, towels, bedding, coffee maker etc.
- Create a moving binder to keep contracts, schedules, and receipts organized in one spot.
- Take pictures before you move out to document the condition of your old home. Do the same when you move into the new home.
- Keep valuables, important documents, and prescriptions with you, don’t pack them.
With the right preparation, changing the locks, cleaning thoroughly, inspecting everything, and arranging utilities, you’ll be all set to settle into your exciting new home. Enjoy this new chapter!
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