If it is your first or your last, moving into a new residence is an fascinating experience. Don't let that wonderful feeling of being a new homeowner keep you from carrying out some necessary tasks to help you prepare for move-in day.
There are several tasks that you should think about before moving in to your new house that cover some safety concerns and cleaning that will save you money and headaches in the future. Here are six things you should know before moving into your new home in Wichita Falls:
1. Change the Locks
The first item you should always do when you move is change the locks, because you do not know who could have a key to your home. You can install the locks with ease yourself or hire a locksmith for a low-cost. If you want to add a little update to your home, go ahead and install new hardware along with the locks.
2. Check for Plumbing Leaks
The home was most likely already inspected before you before you signed the paperwork, but it never hurts to take a second look. You need to give the once-over to your water heater, water lines, drains, sinks, and toilets for any signs of a leak. A dripping faucet or running toilet is something that you should repair as well before it leads to a larger affair. Many of the small problems are great do-it-yourself projects, but you should call a professional for any and all larger issues.
3. Replace and Check Filters
A residence can have several different filters, and you should look at each one of them to decide if they need to be replaced. You will find air filters in the heating and air conditioning unit, the vent above the stove, and in kitchen and bathroom spigots. Replacing old filters is usually a fast and inexpensive project, and it could save you more money in the near future.
4. Completely Clean the House
Putting in the effort to clean the house before you move in is much less difficult than after your things have been placed throughout your residence. When the house is vacant, you will be able to see all things that need attention. You want to give attention to anything that could have been left behind from the past family. Steam-cleaning carpets, vacuuming floors, washing windows, wiping out your cabinets, and buffing the wood floors are some examples of things you should do while the house is still unoccupied.
5. Update Home Technology
Before you move your furniture in, you will have easy access to the areas of electrical and tech outlets, which allows for easy planning and installation. Installing or updating home technology is best right before you move in -- it will prevent headaches later on.
6. Get Prepared for Anything in Wichita Falls
Anything could happen at any time, and it is best to be ready for when it does. If possible, ask the sellers for a list of service companies that they previously used. Find out if they used lawn care services, plumbers, electricians, sprinkler services, pest control, or any other companies that could assist you and your home. These companies usually have logs of past services that were performed at the home, which could be useful for any issues down the road.
A little bit of planning and maintenance before you move into your new home will go far, and it could even bring a little extra bit of happiness in Wichita Falls. It will also help you reduce some of the stress that comes with moving. These six things won't steal too much of your time if you plan accordingly and start right away!
