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<\/a>Set yourself up to cook and eat<\/h2>\n
According to the old adage, the kitchen<\/a> is the heart of the home. If that\u2019s true, then prioritize your home\u2019s \u201cheart\u201d by getting to work on those boxes as soon as you can.<\/p>\n Richmond-Young tells her clients to make the kitchen a top priority from day one. \u201cEven if you’re ordering out, you still need to be able to function in the kitchen now,\u201d she says. \u201cSo you want to unpack the kitchen first.\u201d<\/p>\n Nothing makes a house feel like home faster than eating a meal together. Unpacking dishes, utensils, pots, and small appliances (hello, coffeemaker!) allows for that sense of normalcy to return.<\/p>\n Actually, the kitchen may be a great place to enlist the help of a friend, if possible. Simply use a sticky note to label what you\u2019d like to see in each cabinet and drawer, then set them to work! Keep the labels in place for a few days as you get used to cooking and eating in your new kitchen.<\/p>\n But before you start filling up your closets and cabinets, be sure to give them a good cleaning. Dirt and dust tend to gather in the corner of shelves, and now\u2019s the best time to get rid of it. You may also want to rent a carpet cleaner before setting up your furniture to get rid of any hidden dirt and start with a clean slate.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t forget to clean inside your appliances, which can harbor dangerous germs. In a study done by NSF International, refrigerator drawers<\/a> were one of the most common places to find bacteria such as E. coli, listeria, and salmonella.<\/p>\n To speed up the process, consider hiring a professional cleaner who specializes in deep cleaning for move-ins. Once the cleaner is done with one room, you can focus on unpacking there.<\/p>\n To make your new place feel most home-like at first, you may want to set it up the same way you had it (more or less) in your previous home. If that\u2019s not possible, check the listing photos<\/a>.<\/p>\n If the home was staged or furnished when the photos were taken, then you could try to recreate that setup using your own pieces. Remember \u2014 nothing is permanent. It\u2019s okay to rearrange your furniture over the next few months as you live in the space.<\/p>\n Stop by the local post office or fill out this online form<\/a> to change your official address and have mail forwarded from your previous residence. To go one step further, you\u2019ll also need to inform credit companies, banks, cell phone carriers, charities, and magazines. You may want to update your favorite shopping catalogues, too!<\/p>\n As far as your friends and family are concerned, a digital notification usually does the trick in terms of getting your new address into their hands. Try making a fun, free e-card using Paperless Post<\/a> and sending it out via email.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t let your important paperwork get lost in the moving shuffle! Take some time to organize your closing documents, insurance policies, warranties, receipts, and tax papers.<\/p>\n We like these filing bins<\/a> because of their sturdy construction and clear sides. You may also want to invest in a fire safe<\/a> for your deeds, titles, and identification papers.<\/p>\n Hopefully, you were able to coordinate the transfer of electricity and water prior to moving, but if not, those will need to be a top priority. Make sure to set up phone, internet, security, and television services as well \u2014 without those, it\u2019s hard for a house to feel like home!<\/p>\n In addition, think through specific services that you may need in your new home. Will you require a regular lawn service, cleaning service, or pool service? Your real estate agent<\/a> can give you a referral, or they can ask the previous owners for a recommendation.<\/p>\n Even though you should have gotten all the keys at closing, the previous owners may have forgotten about keys given out to family members or friends. To be safe, it\u2019s best to have all the exterior locks changed on your new home. Hiring a locksmith to replace or rekey all the locks will run you around $75 per hour<\/a>, plus the cost of parts. However, you can also do it yourself by watching a tutorial like this one<\/a>.<\/p>\n If your new home has a garage, it\u2019s a good idea to reprogram the remotes and keypads to ensure that the entry point stays secure. The previous owners may have left you a manual to do this easily. Otherwise, look up the manufacturer\u2019s guide online, or consult a general step-by-step guide, such as this one<\/a>.<\/p>\n Check that all smoke detectors in your new home are in good working order. Change the batteries so that you can start fresh in your maintenance cycle. Be sure that no smoke detectors have been painted over, as well.<\/p>\n In addition, check for proper smoke detector placement. The National Fire Protection Association<\/a> recommends that smoke alarms be placed inside each bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on each level of the home, including basements. Smoke alarms in cooking areas should be placed ten feet away from appliances to minimize false alarms. And be sure that smoke detectors are located away from windows and doors where a draft may decrease their effectiveness.<\/p>\n At the same time, check for the existence and functioning of carbon monoxide detectors. At minimum, CO detectors should be installed on each floor<\/a> and in attached garages. But because carbon monoxide is invisible and odorless, installing one in each bedroom is recommended.<\/p>\n In contrast to smoke detectors, which should be positioned on or near the ceiling, CO detectors should be installed at knee-height.<\/p>\n A move can be both exciting and unsettling for children. Do your best to make the move a positive experience for kids by focusing on their spaces first. If you\u2019re planning to update the paint in their rooms, make that the first project on your list, so that they don\u2019t have to wait long to settle in.<\/p>\n Ask for their opinions about color choices and furniture placement. And be sure to involve them in the unpacking process so that they know where all their favorite clothing and toys are located.<\/p>\n Pets<\/a> may experience anxiety when moved to a new home. Help them get used to their new environment by setting up their area immediately.<\/p>\n To maintain a familiar smell, don\u2019t wash their bedding or toys for a few weeks. Do your best to stay on a consistent schedule, and try to stay home as much as you can to help them feel safe and secure in their new home.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t wait for a power outage to look over the switches in your circuit box. (If you are having trouble locating your circuit box, consult the inspection report. There should be a photo to guide you.)<\/p>\n With the help of another family member, test each circuit to make sure each one is clearly and correctly labeled. If necessary, you can call each other on your cell phones as you\u2019re working your way down the circuit board.<\/p>\n Similarly, Richmond-Young says you\u2019ll want to find your main water shutoff and gas shutoff now \u2014 before<\/i> an emergency arises. Your home inspector should have tested the gas main and water main functionality, but feel free to do your own test now that you\u2019ve moved in.<\/p>\n Also, take note of localized toilet, sink, oven, furnace, and refrigerator water shutoffs so that you\u2019re prepared should a problem arise.<\/p>\n Every home should have at least one fire extinguisher, and preferably at least one fire extinguisher per floor. According to a report by the NFPA<\/a>, cooking fires account for 49% of all home fires in the United States. To be proactive about this danger, be sure that you have at least one fire extinguisher in the kitchen of your new home.<\/p>\n Other good locations for fire extinguishers include garages, basements, outdoor kitchens, bathrooms, and any other place where a heat source may ignite a fire.<\/p>\n Window treatments are more than just a cosmetic nicety. Blinds and curtains increase privacy and help you get a good night\u2019s sleep \u2014 important elements in making a house into a home.<\/p>\n In some areas of the country, it\u2019s common for blinds and curtains to transfer with a property, while in other areas, owners take those items with them. Either way, make window treatments a priority when settling into your new home.<\/p>\n Browsing Google Maps<\/a> can help you get a bird\u2019s-eye view of your new home\u2019s surrounding area.<\/p>\n Check out what restaurants are close by. Pinpoint the closest hospital. Check the routes and drive times to your workplace, school, and\/or place of worship. Make note of veterinarians, car mechanics, doctors, and dentists before you actually need them. And locate nearby entertainment options, including parks, libraries, zoos, theaters, shopping centers, and bars.<\/p>\n The internet is great, but you also need to physically acclimate yourself to your new surroundings.<\/p>\n Take a stroll around your new neighborhood. What markets, services, bus stops, parks, and trails are within walking distance? Can you find on-foot shortcuts to some of your favorite local cafes or shops? Is there a playground or market within biking distance?<\/p>\n Hop in your car to broaden your range and get familiar with the streets. As you circle outward, are there new local eateries you\u2019d like to try? Are there places to pick up a new hobby or enjoy the outdoors?<\/p>\n Richmond-Young advises her clients to drive around at different times of day. Things may look different depending on the natural light, so it\u2019s best to get acclimated with the area during different periods of time.<\/p>\n As you\u2019re settling into your new home, make it a point to be friendly with your neighbors. Introduce yourself, your family members, and your pets.<\/p>\n Knowing your neighbors can be beneficial in the event you need to go out of town. According to a Pew Research study<\/a>, 66% of Americans who know some of their neighbors would feel comfortable leaving a spare key with them for emergencies.<\/p>\n You never know when you\u2019ll need to rely on neighbors to come let the dog out, pick up the mail, or water the plants. \u201cNeighbors can be your eyes and ears when you\u2019re not at home,\u201d Richmond-Young says.<\/p>\n While you\u2019re out meeting your neighbors, ask them about the trash schedule. In addition to the posted day of the week, your neighbors will probably be able to give you a more accurate time of pickup.<\/p>\n You may also want to ask about \u201cunwritten rules,\u201d such as leaving large items on the curb, bagging additional yard waste, or tipping waste management professionals.<\/p>\n Hopefully, you reviewed any HOA<\/a> rules and regulations prior to purchasing your new home. But before you pick out new exterior paint, put in a garden, or build a fence, be sure to look up the specifics of your HOA one more time. Get the approval you need before embarking on home improvement projects, or it could end up costing you extra time and money later.<\/p>\n After you\u2019ve checked your HOA regulations, make a list of any updates you plan to do. Putting those improvements down on paper can help you feel settled even before the project is done!<\/p>\n Some things may be simple, such as adding a key rack or putting in no-slip cabinet liners. Other customizations may be more involved, such as changing a light fixture, painting a room, or even making remodeling<\/a> plans. Prioritize your list and start creating your dream home!<\/p>\n You might need some new things<\/a> for amenities or rooms that you didn\u2019t have before. For instance, you might need porch or patio furniture if you didn\u2019t have an outdoor space in your previous residence. An extra bathroom will need to be outfitted with new towels and rugs. And don\u2019t forget shelving systems, cubbies, and bins to fit your new closets and laundry room areas.<\/p>\n Now for the fun part \u2014 making your home beautiful! Though pulling out decorative items is likely one of the last things on your move-in list, those little touches are what really make you feel settled. Start arranging family portraits and travel memorabilia, and your new place will instantly feel like \u201cyou!\u201d<\/p>\n Before hanging wall art, consider taping up paper placeholders before actually pulling out the hammer and nails. Trace each piece on craft paper and move them around until you find a combination that suits your space. And don\u2019t forget to add a welcoming wreath or mat to your front door decor<\/a>.<\/p>\n Make your new home a haven by appealing to all your senses while you settle in. Play some music that warms your heart or makes you feel like celebrating. Wear comfortable clothing to increase your sense of coziness. Bake or buy your favorite snack to munch on while unpacking. And make it a point to light a candle in a scent you love. After all, you\u2019re making a new memory, and science says smells are tied to memories<\/a>.<\/p>\n You\u2019ve accomplished something great! You\u2019ve purchased and moved into a brand new home! Take time to enjoy that big step with an intentional act of reflection and relaxation.<\/p>\n Order takeout, have a family dance party, break in that new soaker tub, pop open a bottle of champagne \u2014 do something positive that makes you feel emotionally connected to your new home and the people you share it with.<\/p>\n And finally, when you\u2019re ready, invite others to share in your celebration. An open-house-style party creates a low-pressure environment where guests can come and go as they please.<\/p>\nClean before you unpack<\/h2>\n
Arrange your furniture<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/tips-to-getting-settled-in-your-new-home-22-666x381.png\")
<\/a>Change your address<\/h2>\n
File your paperwork<\/h2>\n
Transfer your utilities and services<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/tips-to-getting-settled-in-your-new-home-3-666x381.png\")
<\/a>Change your locks<\/h2>\n
Change the garage door remotes and codes<\/h2>\n
Check smoke detectors<\/h2>\n
Check carbon monoxide detectors<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/tips-to-getting-settled-in-your-new-home-44-666x381.png\")
<\/a>Settle the kids<\/h2>\n
Settle the pets<\/h2>\n
Familiarize yourself with your home\u2019s circuit box<\/h2>\n
Locate the water and gas shutoffs<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/tips-to-getting-settled-in-your-new-home-5-666x381.png\")
<\/a>Find the fire extinguisher (or buy one)<\/h2>\n
Obtain window treatments<\/h2>\n
Get on Google Maps<\/h2>\n
Walk, bike, or drive around<\/h2>\n
![\"Two](\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/tips-to-getting-settled-in-your-new-home-6-666x381.png\")
<\/a>Introduce yourself to your neighbors<\/h2>\n
Check the trash schedule<\/h2>\n
Review HOA and zoning rules<\/h2>\n
Make a list of improvements and customizations<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/tips-to-getting-settled-in-your-new-home-7-666x381.png\")
<\/a>Go shopping<\/h2>\n
Decorate<\/h2>\n
Delight your senses<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/tips-to-getting-settled-in-your-new-home-5-1-666x381.png\")
<\/a>Do something nice for yourself to relax<\/h2>\n
Throw a housewarming party<\/h2>\n