MOVING INTO A NEW HOUSE? HERE IS A CHECKLIST OF THINGS TO DO AS YOU SETTLE INTO YOUR NEW APARTMENT
After weeks of paperwork and fund mobilization, you have just bought or rented your new apartment and you can’t wait to move in. Congratulations! Moving into a new house is a significant milestone in anyone’s life as it marks a new chapter, a fresh start, and the beginning of creating new memories. Stepping into your new abode comes with the feeling of excitement and anticipation, the eagerness to make the space truly your own.
One of the most important aspects of moving into a new house is ensuring that every detail is taken care of. From unpacking your essentials to selecting the perfect furnishings and decor, there is a myriad of tasks that need to be completed to turn your new house into a home.
However, before the big move-in day arrives, it is essential to create a comprehensive checklist to ensure that everything runs smoothly.
In this article, we will share with you ten important things to do when moving into a new house.
Moving into a new house? Do these
1. First and foremost, it is important to create a moving checklist.
This checklist should include all of the tasks that need to be completed before, during, and after the move. Some of the items on the checklist may include packing up your belongings, changing your address with the relevant bodies such as your bank or PHCN, hiring a moving company or renting a truck, and unpacking and organizing your new home. By creating a checklist, you can stay organized and ensure that you don’t miss out on an important thing during the moving process.
2. When moving into a new apartment, one of the most important steps to take before unpacking is to thoroughly clean and prepare the space. This process is crucial in order to ensure a fresh start in your new residence and to make it feel truly like your own. By taking the time to clean and prepare your new home before moving in your belongings, you can set the stage for a successful and happy transition.
The first step in cleaning and preparing your new home is to start with the floors. Whether your new home has carpet, hardwood, tile, or any other type of flooring, it is essential to give them a thorough cleaning. This may involve vacuuming and steam cleaning carpets, mopping and waxing hardwood floors, or scrubbing and resealing tile floors. By ensuring that the floors are clean and well-maintained, you can create a welcoming and fresh environment in your new home.
Next, it is important to clean all surfaces in your new home. This includes countertops, shelves, cabinets, and any other surfaces that may collect dust or dirt. Use a gentle cleaning solution and a soft cloth to wipe down all surfaces, removing any grime or residue that may have accumulated. Pay special attention to areas like kitchens and bathrooms, where surfaces can easily become dirty and need a deep cleaning. By taking the time to thoroughly clean all surfaces, you can create a clean and inviting space in your new home.
In addition to cleaning surfaces, it is important to clean windows in your new home. Clean windows not only allow natural light to fill the space but also create a bright and cheerful atmosphere. Use a window cleaner and a clean cloth to wipe down windows, removing any dirt, fingerprints, or smudges. Consider cleaning both the inside and outside of windows for a truly sparkling finish. By taking the time to clean windows, you can enhance the overall appearance of your new home and create a welcoming space for yourself and your family.
Finally, don’t forget to clean appliances in your new home. Whether you are moving into a furnished home with existing appliances or bringing your own, it is important to properly clean and prepare them before use. For existing appliances, wipe down the exteriors and interiors, removing any food residue or spills. For your own appliances, unpack them carefully and clean them thoroughly before installing them in your new home. By ensuring that appliances are clean and in good working order, you can avoid any potential issues and start enjoying your new home right away.
Note that these chores can be handled by a cleaning company at a cost to save the stress of cleaning yourself. Whether you are moving into a newly constructed apartment or one previously occupied, there is no substitute for good cleaning.
3. As a new homeowner, one of the most important tasks you can do to ensure your safety and security is to change the locks on all exterior doors. This simple step can give you peace of mind knowing that you are the only one with access to your new home.
When you move into a new house, it’s impossible to know who may have had access to the keys in the past. Previous homeowners, real estate agents, contractors, and even neighbors could potentially have copies of the keys to your new home. By changing the locks, you are eliminating any possibility of unauthorized access. This is especially important if you move into a newly constructed apartment, as there could be multiple copies of keys floating around from various contractors and workers who had access to the property during the building process.
Furthermore, changing the locks on all exterior doors is a simple and inexpensive way to enhance the overall security of your home. Many new homeowners overlook this step in the excitement of moving into a new space, but it is crucial for your peace of mind and safety. Investing in high-quality locks can provide an added layer of security for your home and make it more difficult for potential intruders to break in.
In addition to changing the locks on all exterior doors, it is also important to consider other security measures to protect your new home. Installing a security system with cameras and alarms can provide added peace of mind and deter potential intruders. Motion-activated lights, security cameras, and alarm systems can all help to enhance the security of your home and provide an extra layer of protection for you and your family.
4. Unpack: As you settle into your new space, it is important to unpack essential items first to ensure a smooth transition and a comfortable start in your new home.
You may want to start with setting up your bed. Setting up your bed with fresh sheets, pillows, and blankets will provide a cozy retreat at the end of a long day of moving. A good night’s sleep is essential for feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the tasks of unpacking and settling in.
Next, unpack toiletries to ensure you have everything you need for self-care. This includes items such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo, and soap. Having these essentials readily available will help you feel clean and refreshed after a long day of unpacking boxes.
Kitchen essentials should also be a priority for unpacking. Setting up your kitchen with items such as pots, pans, dishes, and utensils will allow you to prepare meals in your new home. This can help save money on eating out and ensure you have nourishing meals to fuel your energy during the moving process.
Lastly, unpacking clothing is important for feeling comfortable and organized in your new space. Having your wardrobe accessible will make it easier to get dressed each day and feel at home in your new environment.
By prioritizing the unpacking of these essential items, you can create a comfortable and functional living space in your new home. Taking the time to set up these key areas will help you feel settled and ready to enjoy your new surroundings.
5. Inspect Safety Devices: As you settle into your new apartment, it is again important to prioritize the safety of yourself and your loved ones by inspecting and testing safety devices such as smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers, where available.
Smoke detectors are vital in alerting you to potential fires in your home. Make sure to check that each smoke detector is properly installed and has fresh batteries. It is recommended to test each smoke detector monthly and replace the batteries at least once a year to ensure they are in proper working order. In the event of a fire, a functioning smoke detector can be the difference between life and death.
Carbon monoxide detectors are equally important as carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be fatal if not detected early. It is essential to test carbon monoxide detectors regularly and replace them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. By ensuring that your carbon monoxide detectors are functioning correctly, you can protect yourself and your family from the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Fire extinguishers are another essential safety device that should be checked regularly. Make sure that your fire extinguisher is easily accessible and that the pressure gauge indicates that it is fully charged. It is also important to inspect the extinguisher for any signs of damage or wear. Knowing how to properly use a fire extinguisher can be crucial in containing a small fire and preventing it from spreading.
6. Set up furniture: Setting up your furniture layout is an essential step in creating a functional and comfortable living space. By carefully planning and arranging your furniture according to your preferences, you can maximize the use of space and create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere in your home.
The first step in setting up your furniture is to assess the layout of the room. Consider the size and shape of the room, as well as the location of doors, windows, and other architectural features. This will help you determine the best placement for each piece of furniture to ensure easy traffic flow and a balanced look.
Next, consider the function of each area in the room. Think about how you will be using the space – whether it’s for relaxing, entertaining, working, or dining. Arrange your furniture in a way that supports these activities, making sure that there is enough seating, storage, and workspace for your needs.
When arranging your furniture, pay attention to the scale and proportion of each piece. Avoid overcrowding the space with too many large pieces, as this can make the room feel cramped. Instead, mix and match different sizes and shapes of furniture to create visual interest and balance.
Consider the placement of your furniture in relation to focal points in the room, such as a TV, dinning area or artwork. Arrange your furniture around these focal points to create a sense of balance and harmony in the space.
Other things you should consider doing include:
7. Update Address: One of the most important tasks to check off your list when settling into your new home is updating your address with relevant institutions and service providers. This simple step can save you a lot of hassle in the long run and ensure that you continue to receive important correspondence and services without interruption. For instance, updating your information at your bank will ensure that you continue to receive important financial statements and information at your new residence, especially if you are subscribed to physical receipts. The same applies to postal addresses and national identity cards, amongst others.
8. Explore the Neighborhood: it is important to take some time to explore and familiarize yourself with the local amenities, parks, schools, and transportation options. By doing so, you can feel more at home and get a better sense of your surroundings. You can start by taking a stroll around the area to have the chance to see what shops, restaurants, and services are available nearby. Additionally, taking a walk can help you get a sense of the community and meet some of your new neighbours.
9. Finally, meet your new neighbours: When you pack into an apartment like the Edifice or The Statement Residences, for instance, you are likely to have neighbours who are also occupants of other apartments in the building. Introduce yourself to your new neighbours and begin building connections within the community. A friendly gesture can go a long way in fostering positive relationships.
