The First 5 Things to Do in Your New Home

1. Pest Proof

Normally, a home inspection should tell you if the house has pest problems. But even if it got a clean bill of health, you can take some measures to prevent any possible pest visits. Look for evidence of possible infestations, including ants around the window sills, cockroach trails, and bed bugs in the carpet. This is the best time to catch the problem before it becomes out of control, since the home is empty and there are less things for bugs and insects to hide behind.

2. Give it a Deep Clean

In the same vein as pest proofing, now’s a great time to do some major deep cleaning around the new place. Even if the previous owners cleaned before leaving, doing it yourself will give you much-needed assurance that it’s done to your standards.

3. Paint the Walls

Now that your house is spotless and pest free it’s time to make it your own. Your home is an extension of yourself, something you can make uniquely yours and right now is the best time to make any aesthetic changes to the walls—be it paint or wall paper. Choose colors that reflect you and your family’s character and that will add warmth to your home.

4. Change the Locks

Change all of the locks immediately. Make sure that you have complete control over who has access to your home. It’s surprising how many people don’t think to do this seemingly obvious thing. Keep in mind previous owners likely gave spare keys to their housekeepers, dog sitters, significant others, etc. Who’s to say one of the previous owner’s associates don’t still have that key? Don’t take any chances.

5. Transfer Utilities and Update your Address

In addition to filing a change of address request with the post office, you’ll need to transfer or set up utilities in your new home promptly after moving in, if not beforehand. Be sure to also update your address with your banks, insurance carriers and credit card companies. These should be a priority due to the sensitive nature of the mail they send you.

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