In this episode, our real estate agents and homeowner experts Scott Kooiman and Rob Martin discuss the essential steps to take in your first week in your new home. Whether you’re moving into a brand new property or one that’s new to you, these eight key actions will help you settle in smoothly and avoid common pitfalls. From utilities to locks, cleaning, and getting to know your neighborhood, this episode provides valuable tips for a stress-free transition into your new home.
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Moving into a new home can be an exhilarating yet overwhelming experience. From checking utilities to getting to know your neighbors, the first week involves a flurry of activities that set the stage for a smooth transition. Recently, on the State 48 Homeowner podcast, Scott Kooiman and Rob Martin shared invaluable insights into the essential tasks one should prioritize during this crucial time.
1. Verifying Utilities:
The first and foremost task, often overlooked, is ensuring that all the utilities are under your name. Rob Martin emphasizes the potential complexities in cases where neighborhoods have diverse utility providers. “There could be private water companies, county islands, and shifts in services between county and city,” he highlights.
2. Rekeying the House:
Scott and Rob underscore the importance of rekeying the house for security reasons. Rob mentions the ease of learning to rekey using online tutorials. “All your life possessions are going into that house, and you want to make sure that you are the only one with the keys,” he asserts.
3. Prioritizing Repairs and Painting:
Addressing repairs and painting before moving in is advised to avoid inconvenience later. Rob shares a personal experience where postponed repairs resurfaced during the home sale, emphasizing the importance of taking care of them early.
4. Deep Cleaning:
The hosts discuss the need for a deep clean before moving in, considering the accessibility to areas usually overlooked once furniture is placed. “Start at a clean slate, so you don’t have to clean up after all the moving stuff,” Rob suggests.
5. Getting Acquainted with the Neighborhood:
While running errands for the move-in process, Rob encourages people to explore the neighborhood. “Pay attention to local businesses and community amenities,” he advises, highlighting the potential lifestyle changes based on the neighborhood’s proximity to stores and restaurants.
6. Building Relationships with Neighbors:
Emphasizing the importance of being a good neighbor, the podcast advocates for initiating contact with neighbors early on. “Creating relationships with neighbors can be incredibly beneficial for mutual support and safety,” Scott points out.
7. Organizing Important Documents:
Scott stresses the significance of organizing closing documents and home appliance manuals. “Digitizing these documents and keeping them accessible can save future headaches,” he suggests.
8. Updating Address Information:
The hosts discuss the necessity of updating address information not only with the postal service but also across various accounts and official documents to avoid potential legal issues.
Moving into a new home involves a myriad of tasks beyond simply unpacking boxes. The insights from the State 48 Homeowner podcast shed light on the often overlooked but essential tasks that can significantly impact the transition into a new residence. As emphasized, attention to these eight crucial steps can pave the way for a seamless and enjoyable beginning in a new home.
