Being a first-time homeowner is an exciting prospect! You’ve taken the steps and made the leap needed to purchase the very first home that you can proudly call yours. While there are many memorable moments you’re about to experience that will make for special memories, it’s important to perform certain checks and changes for a smooth transition.
Whether you will be living alone, or you’re a family person getting ready to move into a larger home, the 6 tips and guidelines for new homeowners listed below will keep you and your loved ones safe, while adding quality to your life.
1. Get Your Home Deep Cleaned
Moving into your first home is a big deal. Not only is it a huge financial investment, but it’s also a new chapter in your life. And while it’s tempting to just move all your stuff in and start enjoying your new space, there’s one important task that you shouldn’t forget: giving your new home a deep clean.
This may seem like a daunting task, but taking the time to do it will pay off in the long run. A thorough cleaning will remove dust, dirt, and grime that has accumulated over time, and it will also help you to identify any potential maintenance issues that need to be addressed. So before you move your belongings into your new home, take some time to give your new home a good once-over or get a professional cleaning service company to help you out. It’ll make the transition to homeownership that much easier.
2. A Fresh Paint Job BEFORE Moving In
If you’re considering giving your new house a fresh coat of paint, it’s best to do so BEFORE you move in. That way you won’t have to deal with any lingering fumes and odours from the new colours on your walls, and it will also help you avoid the hassle of having painters taking up space in your new home while you’re there. Plus, a new paint job can give your home an instant face-lift, making it feel more like your own. So why not choose a new colour that you’ll love for years to come and make it your own?
3. Change The Locks
Moving into a new house is always an exciting time, but there’s a lot that should be taken into consideration. One thing that’s often overlooked is changing the locks on the doors. This may seem like a small detail, but it’s actually extremely important. After all, you don’t want just anyone to have access to your new home. By changing the locks, you can rest assured knowing that only you and your family have keys to the house. So, before you move into your new place, be sure to change the locks!
4. Get To Know Your Neighbours
Now that you’re a new homeowner, not only are you responsible for maintaining your own property, but you also need to take care of any problems that may arise. One way to make the transition to homeownership a bit easier is to get to know your neighbours. That way, you’ll have someone to call on if you need help with anything, from fixing a leaky tap to dealing with a noisy party. In addition, getting to know your neighbours can help to create a sense of community in your neighbourhood. Don’t forget to join any neighbourhood messaging or social media groups, they’re key to receiving help and giving it back.
5. Get Maintenance Work Out Of The Way
Before you move into your new home, take care of any maintenance tasks that arise so that they don’t become bigger problems and cost more money in the future. Here are some common tasks you should look out for:
- If you have a chimney, get it cleaned so that there is no risk of a fire.
- Test all the smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are working properly.
- Inspect the gutters and downspouts to make sure they are clear of debris.
- Check for any cracks in the foundation and repair them if necessary.
- Check the light bulbs, fixtures, and wall sockets to see if they need repairing or replacing. It might be worthwhile having an electrician come in and go through other electrical elements in the house.
By taking care of these maintenance tasks before moving in, you can rest assured that your new home will be safe and sound.
6. Plant Shade Trees And Other Plants
When you move into a new home, one of the first things you may want to do is add some greenery. Not only does this help to improve the air quality, but it can also save you money on your electricity bills. Shade trees and other plants can provide natural cooling for your home, keeping it cooler in the summer months. In addition, they can help to filter out pollutants and improve the quality of the air inside your home. And, as an added bonus, they can also boost your curb appeal. So whether you’re looking to save money or just want to breathe easier, be sure to add some plants to your new home.
Now that you’re clued up on maintenance tips and safety checks as a new homeowner, you can rest assured knowing that your comfort and safety won’t be hindered by any uncontrollable mishaps. And remember, if you need help making the process easier, the expert team at SweepSouth is here for all of your move-out cleaning services and move-in cleaning service needs.
