Americans have a dire need for homes right now. The combination of historically low-interest rates and increased demand for suburban space has created an incredible opportunity for those looking to purchase a home. But the housing shortage is still happening, which means that buyers need to be prepared to move quickly when they find a home they love.
However, once you’ve found the right home for you, there are still some essentials you need to do. Don’t move right in! Consider doing these things first before you move into your new home.
Proper Inspection
Buying a new home is an exciting experience, and most people want to do it the moment they’ve gotten the deed. First, however, you must get a professional inspection before moving in. A proper inspection will help you catch any potential problems with the home, like water damage or pests, and give you a chance to have them dealt with before they become more significant issues.
Moreover, it might also be good to survey the area from above. A thermal drone inspection can find all sorts of damages from above. For example, it can identify roof leaks, HVAC problems, water leaks, etc. In short, this will give you a chance to sort out any potential issues before you move in. The best part about this kind of inspection is that it’s pretty cheap!
The main reason you want to get your new home inspected is to report any damages to the previous owner. In addition, it can make a difference in insurance, and you don’t want to be caught off-guard by any potential problems.
Change the Locks
One of the first things you should do after getting the keys to your new home is to change the locks. It may seem like an unnecessary expense, but it’s important to remember that you don’t know who has copies of the old keys. The previous owner, family, friends, and even the real estate agent might have a copy. It’s better to be safe than sorry, so changing the locks is good.
Moreover, changing the locks will allow you to upgrade to a more secure lock system. So if you’re worried about break-ins or want to make sure your home is as safe as possible, investing in a good lock system is a good idea.
Get to Know the Neighborhood
Before you move into your new home, it’s good to get to know the neighborhood. Some experts even suggest that you do this before purchasing the home. It is essential if you’re moving to a new city or state.
Spend some time walking around the area and getting to know the people there. Talk to your neighbors and get a feel for the community. You can also check out local businesses and see what the area offers. It is a great way to get a feel for the neighborhood and see if it’s the right fit for you. Consider it as your initial research before purchasing the home.
Update Your Address
One of the most important things you need to do before moving is updating your address. It includes updating your driver’s license, car registration, voter registration, and other official documents with your old address. Updating your address might seem like a hassle, but it’s essential to do it as soon as possible.
You should also update your address with the post office so that mailers will forward your mail to your new home. This can take a few weeks to process, so it’s a good idea to do it ahead of time. Lastly, don’t forget to update your address with any companies or organizations you’re associated with. This includes your bank, credit card companies, magazines you subscribe to, and anything else that sends you mail regularly.
Save Up Your Emergency Fund
Moving to a new home is a considerable expense, and there’s always the possibility that something will go wrong. That’s why it’s crucial to have an emergency fund set aside before you move. If you need to make any unexpected repairs or replacements, you’ll have the money to do so.
Ideally, your emergency fund should be enough to cover 3-6 months of living expenses. This will give you a cushion if you lose your job or have any other financial setback. In addition, having an emergency fund will provide you with peace of mind and help you avoid going into debt if something goes wrong.
When moving into a new home, it’s essential to take care of the most important things first. Moving can be a stressful experience, but following these tips will help make it easier. It’ll also help you transition into your new home much faster.
