The deal has been negotiated, the contract has been signed, and you are moving forward with your inspection while counting down to your closing date. The move to your new home is imminent, and there’s a lot to be done. But outside of the more obvious tasks like moving boxes and packaging tape, there are several small but critical tasks you can’t forget to do. Let’s take a look at the things you need to prepare before moving into a new home.
How Do I Prepare to Move to a New Place?
You will want to have as many things as possible set up for your new home before you move in. Here are 10 of the most important steps to take.
- Utilities Make arrangements to have utilities turned on and/or transferred into your name prior to move-in, or scheduled as soon as possible. You don’t want to forget about this important step and then suddenly be without power.
- Address Change It can be a large task to change all of your personal accounts, including your address with your employer. Make a list and start early to get through them all. With a change at the post office at the end, you will gather any last addresses you forgot.
- Pack Necessary Items Keeping a box or suitcase for each person with necessary clothing and personal belongings will make your move more comfortable. Have these items accessible so you don’t need to fumble around looking for supplies when you are tired and ready to relax in your new home.
- Deep Cleaning Schedule a time to clean your new home well or call to hire someone to tackle that task for you. Remember carpets if there are any. Try to fit this in before the moving truck arrives and the new house is still empty.
- New Locks Change the locks when you first arrive. Have a new set already picked out so you’re set to install them when you move in.
- Start a List You will likely notice projects or repairs that will need attention, and you will likely come up with tasks you forgot or want to remember that should be included on the list. Your moving list and moving-in list are often prized possessions during a move.
- Locate Shut Offs and Fuse Box Determine where these are in case of a problem, repair, or installation during your move. It might be necessary to address something that comes up when you are moving in and it’s good to know how to quickly shut these items down.
- Clean Furnace Filters Before running the furnace or AC unit, confirm the furnace has a filter and that it is clean.
- Check Smoke and CO2 Alarms Make sure the batteries are fresh and they are all working to ensure safety in your new home.
- Take Your Time There will be plenty to do. Try not to stress too much while getting everything accomplished. It will feel like it all needs to happen all at once, but with a good list and consistent plan, you should also have time to eat well and sleep enough.
What Essentials Do I Need for My New Home?
This list will be a good starting point to move into your new home. The list you start and have with you all the time will provide a helpful inventory of the projects, timelines, phone numbers, and contractors necessary to work with. It will be an essential part of keeping your plans together and inspire the moving progress forward.
Working with an Experienced Memphis Real Estate Agent
When it’s time to sell your existing home or buy a great new place, turn to a highly regarded and well-informed local real estate agent. You want someone that you can trust to give you the best advice and know-how for your new home purchase or sale. Check out my other great articles to help you through your home selling and buying experience here in Memphis. Staging homes for sale is also part of my expertise. Please ask me about it when you reach out.
Take a minute to learn more about me. With over 15 years of top-notch service for my clients, I can guide you with your house sale, new home purchase, or buying a great parcel of land. As a top, licensed real estate agent in the Memphis area, showing you the best properties for you and your family is my goal!
Contact me at (901) 828-8919 or drop me a quick note at angie@angiekelley.com and we can speak in person about your plans and options. Ask me about seeing homes for sale by video or virtual tour and find the best place for you!
Angie Kelley, Crye-Leike Realtors
(901) 828-8919 or (901) 756-8900
