Priority Tasks For Your Move In

Moving into a new home is an exciting time. That is probably and understatement. Moving into a new home that you just purchased is a SUPER exciting time!! Understandably, before the transaction even closes you are probably daydreaming about decor and paint schemes and new furniture and all the other wonderful ways you plan on making your new home unique to you and your family. But before you get into the fun stuff, and before you move in a single box of your personal belongings, there are some basics you should consider covering first.

Change The Locks

Even if you’re promised that new locks have been installed in your home, you can never be too careful. It’s worth the money to have the peace of mind that comes with knowing that no one else has the keys to your home. Changing the locks can be a DIY project, or you can call in a locksmith for a little extra money. I realize this item can come across as a bit paranoid, but changing the locks doesn't cost a lot of money and will give you a sense of security on day one of life in your new home. 

Steam Clean The Carpets

Granted, not all homes even have carpet. However, if your new home does, it’s good to get a fresh start with your floors before you start decorating. The previous owners may have had pets, young children, or just some plain old clumsiness. Take the time to steam clean the carpets so that your floors are free of stains and allergens. It’s pretty easy and affordable to rent a steam cleaner—your local grocery store may have them available.

Call An Exterminator

Prior to move-in, you probably haven’t spent enough time in the house to get a view of any pests that may be lurking. Call an exterminator to take care of any mice, insects, and other critters that may be hiding in your home. In an ideal world this step will have been taken care of during the inspection process before you sign on the dotted line making a commitment to buy a home, but just in case this wasn't part of the negotiation, it is a good idea to take care of this now. 

Clean Out The Kitchen

If the previous occupants wanted to skip on some of their cleaning duties when they moved out, the kitchen is where they probably cut corners. Wipe down the inside of cabinets, clean out the refrigerator, clean the oven, and clean in the nooks and crannies underneath the appliances. Once all of your kitchen appliances are set up and you are cooking meals in your kitchen, doing a deep clean is much more of a chore. It never hurts to get the first deep clean out of the way while the task is much easier.