First of all, if you were to list everything thing you need to take care of when you’re moving, you’d need to find a very long sheet of paper or get extra memory for your smartphone.
It’s well known that moving is one of the most stressful things you do in life and a big reason for that is the sheer number of tasks involved. From real estate agents and lawyers, to last minute repairs and moving companies, it’s seems like you have more to do in the few short weeks and months of your move than in all the other time you spend as a homeowner.
So we thought we’d take a quick look at one part of moving that many people tend to overlook or underestimate as they try to get everything done.
When you first saw your new home, all perfectly staged to sell, it looked wonderful – almost like nothing needed to be done before you moved in. But when you arrive on move-in day, things are not always the same.
You can use some of the following tips to avoid too many surprises when you move in.
1. Visit the Home Before Move-In
If you can, visit your new home after the previous owners move out and before you move in to get an idea of its current condition and assess what needs to be done.
2. Change the Locks
Regardless of what needs to be done, you should make sure all door locks are changed or at least rekeyed.
3. Do a Thorough Cleaning
Not just of the obvious spots, like the kitchen and bathroom, but in every nook and cranny. There’s no better way to get to know every square inch of your new home – and make sure they’re all clean.
4. Paint Now
Painting before you move in saves having to rearrange and cover furniture later.
5. Hang Window Coverings
Do so as soon as you can after the previous homeowners move out so that the house looks more occupied while you’re not there.
Anything you can do in your new home before you move in will make the move faster and easier. And less stressful!