You have finally bought the house you can call your home sweet home. You can now start a new environment and neighborhood. But before you begin choosing decors and furniture, set your priorities first.
Continue reading to know what these things are:
Inspect the Place Thoroughly
The best time for a complete inspection is when the house is not yet full of appliances and furniture. Before unpacking those boxes and setting your furniture, be sure to do a thorough walkthrough of your new place. Included in the things that you need to double-check are:
- That the previous owners did all the required and agreed repairs.
- That everything included in the sale agreement must be there.
- That the fixtures, switches, and electrical outlets are working well.
If there are some issues, you'll need to contact your realtor to know what you need to do. But, if these issues are not in the sales contract, you are responsible for them.
Make Sure Utilities are Properly Set
Utilities such as water, gas, electricity, internet, phone, and HVAC must be all working on the day of moving. These are some of the things that you must check and be sure that they are working well. Garbage pickup is another thing you have to keep in mind as well. Make sure that there's a local waste or removal company available to pick up the garbage regularly.
Ensure that Your House is Child and Pet Proof
A child or pet-proof house means the place should be safe for kids and fur babies. Check your new home if there are some things that could harm them. You need to check if any glassware and cleaning supplies are lying around. Other items like box cutters can hurt someone as well. Check the house also if there are hanging electrical cords and open windows. Keeping the place secure is vital.
Locate the Water Valve and Fuse Box
You need to locate the water valve and fuse box. Why is this essential? It is practical for you to identify these locations should you need to turn the water off or if the power goes out. Usually, these switches are in the storage room, garage, or basement.
Conduct a Deep Cleaning
Of course, an untidy home isn't a good place to start your new life. This is essential, especially if the house has been vacant for a while. Dust will surely settle even if the previous owner already cleaned it before leaving. It is best if you contact a cleaning company before you move to your new home.
Get a Car and Home Insurance
One essential thing that you should not forget is to get a car and home insurance. This action guarantees that there is coverage for you and your property in case of mishaps. Getting both insurance policies together is also the best way for you to save on premiums.
Wrapping Up
Buying a new house can mean getting a new lease on life. Preparing it well before you move is an excellent thing to do. This is especially if you want your loved ones to feel comfortable and happy. When everything is in place, the only thing you'd have to do is to enjoy your new neighborhood.