Since these set-ups can require appointments , plan ahead so that if someone needs to come to your new house , it can happen as soon as you need it and you ’ ll be there to assist .
5 . Locate Necessary Functions
As the saying goes , hope for the best but prepare for the worst . Looking for your circuit breaker in a new home after the power has unexpectedly gone out isn ’ t the best time . As you ’ re moving in , make note of the location of the circuit breaker , fuse box and water valve .
Note where you have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors , and test them to make sure they ’ re functioning properly . Also , determine an escape route for each member of your family if a fire did occur . If you moved to a location with natural disasters such as tornadoes , hurricanes , or earthquakes , come up with a plan of action and a place for shelter .
6 . Set up a Security System
Speaking of safety , it ’ s important that you feel safe in your new home . This means different things to different people , but some steps include changing locks so that prior residents don ’ t have access , installing motion detectors or cameras , using a smart doorbell , or setting up a full-fledged home security system . There are even tools these days to help you gauge the safety of your neighborhood and help you decide on the appropriate course of action in terms of securing your new home .
7 . Deep Clean
There ’ s no better time to really get your home sparkling clean than when it ’ s totally empty . You can attack every floorboard , every window sill , every nook and cranny . If you have the time in between closing and the moment your home is overrun with moving boxes , it ’ s worth a scrub down .
8 . Change Your Address
If you didn ’ t already do this in the moving prep part of the process , make sure that you change your address for all communication . Forward your mail and update your credit card billing address — not just with your credit card company but also any services or retailers where your information is saved .
Communicate with important stakeholders like your bank and insurance provider , schedule a trip to the DMV and don ’ t forget to share your new address with friends and family .
9 . Explore the Community
Welcome to your new neighborhood . When you need a break from unpacking , take a stroll or drive to explore your new area . Look for the stores , community centers and points of interest that will become the new go-to spots for you and your family .