Welcome to the ultimate moving checklist, your comprehensive guide to all the essential tasks you should tackle before settling into your new home. Amidst the excitement of relocating, it's easy to overlook crucial responsibilities, and some are best addressed while your house is still vacant, well before your belongings arrive. Delaying these tasks can make them more challenging down the road. Whether you're preparing for a move or have already made the transition, this moving checklist will help ensure you've covered all the necessary bases.
- Forward Your Mail: Update your address with the United States Postal Service to ensure your mail is redirected to your new home. Keep in mind that periodicals will stop being forwarded 60 days after your move, so notify magazines and newspapers separately.
- Turn on Utilities: Don't assume that electric, gas, and water services will be ready upon your arrival. Make sure to set up all your utilities in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
- Arrange Internet and Cable Service: If you plan to indulge in a "Property Brothers" marathon during the unpacking process, ensure your home is wired for internet and cable service before you move in.
- Schedule an Energy Audit: Consider ordering a home energy audit to enhance your new home's energy efficiency. This assessment will provide valuable insights into making your home more eco-friendly and can help reduce energy bills. Some utility companies offer free energy audits.
- Deep Clean Your Home: Take advantage of the empty house to perform a thorough deep clean. Hiring a cleaning service, which costs around $150 on average, can help ensure your new home is spotless.
- Change Locks: Prioritize safety by changing the locks, but remember that this can only be done after the closing.
- Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in proper working condition to safeguard your home from emergencies.
- Set Up the Alarm System: If your home has a security system, confirm its setup with the provider or explore options with HomeBinder Assistant to find the best security provider in your area.
- Complete Major Home Renovations: If you plan significant renovations like repainting, refinishing floors, or other major projects, tackle them before moving in. Empty homes are more conducive to these projects.
- Address Repairs: Hire a handyman to handle any necessary repairs that the seller didn't agree to fix.
- Consider a Home Warranty: Protect your investment by considering a home warranty, which covers the cost of repairing many home appliances and systems.
- Purchase Fire Extinguishers: Install fire extinguishers on every level of your home, learn how to use them, and establish an escape plan in case of a fire emergency.
- Familiarize Yourself with the Home: Identify the location of the circuit breaker box and the main water shut-off valve to be prepared for potential emergencies. Consider labeling the electrical panel.
- Childproof Your Home: If you have children, ensure your new home is childproofed to prevent accidents and injuries.
- Update Billing Address: Inform your credit card companies, banks, and other financial institutions of your new address. Don't forget to update your address on websites where you frequently shop to avoid future complications.
Moving can be a whirlwind, but with this comprehensive moving checklist, you'll be well-prepared to tackle essential tasks and ensure a smooth transition into your new home.
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