Moving into your new home is a very rewarding feeling but it can also come with some stress in the beginning when getting settled in. We want to help make this process a little less stressful for you so that you may be able to enjoy this happy moment. Here are some things you can do before your big move that will help make the transition less stressful for you and your family.
Update Your New Address Before Moving
When you move into a new home you want to make sure that everyone who needs your new address has it. The easiest way to do this is to fill out a change of address form at your local post office. This will ensure that your mail will begin to get delivered to your new home as soon as possible. You will also want to make sure that you update your drivers license, voters registration, insurance, bank information and credit cards to reflect your new address. To further eliminate any stress, have all of your utilities transferred to your new address or set up new accounts if needed. If you have any subscriptions to magazines or newspapers don’t forget about these too! The post office does forward these types of things but only for a limited amount of time.
Keep Important Documents Somewhere Safe
You know that new big screen TV you just bought or the washing machine you just had to replace? Those probably came with important warranty information and it is crucial that you keep these in a safe place. Remember it all just looks like paper when it is in a big pile and you would hate to throw something important like that away. A good idea is to get some kind of safe deposit box or safe that you can put all of these documents in so that they will not get mixed up with yesterday’s junk mail. Maybe you are moving across the U.S for work and the moving expenses are tax deductible; you do not want to lose your receipts. Make sure to keep these in a safe place as well.
Add Some Security
If your new home is not already equipped with a security system, you may want to consider setting one up. A new home is a new environment and knowing you are protected will give you peace of mind. If you are not moving into a newly built home it is also wise to change your locks so that your key is not the same as the previous owner’s key.
Do a Final Walk Through
Here at P&D Builders this is a standard practice right before you get your keys. Doing a walk through will ensure that all the necessary repairs and updates were made before taking complete ownership of the home. You can find out more about our White Glove Guarantee here.
Get to Know Your Home
A new home is a new surrounding, new walls, new floors and usually a whole new setup. That is why you need to take some time and get to know your new home. P&D makes sure that you know where every outlet is, every light switch and circuit breaker by giving you a thorough walk through of your home and answering all of your questions for you. Think of it as a ‘New Home Orientation’. It is important that you get all of your warranty information and operating manuals on the new appliances/features of the home. Also this is an important time to create an emergency plan for your and your family in case of a fire or other emergency. Since this is a new home for your kids too, make sure that they are familiarized with everything as well.
Home Owners Association (HOA)
Regardless of how you feel about homeowners associations, if you live in one you will want to make sure you are familiar with the HOA rules. Each community has different rules and regulations. Find out what you can or cannot do if you do live in a homeowners association. This is also a great time to find out what the trash and recycling collection times are and other important “need-to-knows” and events in the community.
Get to Know Your Neighborhood
When you move into your new home you are likely to have neighbors as you are probably living in a community (unless you are moving to a rural location). Don’t wait for your neighbors to come to you, reach out and meet them. It is also good to get to know your neighbors as this can add a sense of security to the community and your home. They can help watch your home when you are away, you can arrange play dates with their kids and most likely end up becoming great friends with one another. Embrace your new community and you will find that it can be a very welcoming experience for you and your family. Once you become more acquainted collect addresses and phone numbers from your neighbors in case of emergencies. Also if you have pets, find out where the veterinarian and pet hospital are located. The more you know about your neighborhood, the more assimilated you will feel.
Once you are all settled in, you have met the neighbors, and have become acquainted with your new home, you will feel much more at ease. This is the point in which you break out all the necessary items to plan your housewarming party and invite everyone over for a celebration!