If you’ve just signed the dotted line and bought your first home, then the first thing you might feel inclined to do is pop open a bottle of champagne to get celebrating. After that, however, there is work to do. Here, we’re going to look at the first things you should take care of to make sure that you’re able to move into your new life with as much ease as possible.
Start letting the right people know
When you’re moving, it’s a good idea to tell those that you might have some financial ties or responsibility to. You should let your bank know, as well as your utility providers, especially if you’re likely to continue getting billed for things like power and water even after you move out of your old place. It’s a good time to switch suppliers when moving into the new home to find some more wiggle room to save money, too.
Start getting ready for the move
Buying the house might be the biggest part of the move, and the one that takes the longest to finalize, but the move isn’t over yet. It’s time to start packing, to start downsizing your move if necessary, and to work out the logistics. If you’re long distance moving, then you need to make sure that you can book the right team and vehicles in advance. The longer you leave it, the more likely you are to have to handle it yourself.
Get the insurance worked out
Given that you’ve just put a deposit on it and committed to paying for it for years in advance, you want to make sure that your new investment is protected. Finding the right home insurance right after you’ve taken on such an expensive one might feel like rubbing salt in the wound, but it is crucial. You don’t have to stick with the warranty you already have, either. Take the time to see if there’s a package that better fits your life as a homeowner.
Start getting ready for some maintenance and repairs
Very few homes come in perfect condition. You’re going to have some work to do, so it’s a good idea to start readying for it now. This might mean budgeting for tools and materials, or even looking at tradespeople who can help you. You can use the inspection report you got before buying the home as a briefing on what, exactly has to be done, for convenience.
Take time off
If you’re working, have kids in school, or otherwise have some obligations to be somewhere, make sure that you let them know that you’re moving and need time off. Do this as far in advance as possible, and get the confirmation in writing if you can. You’re going to need at least a day to make the move, and possibly more.
Moving into a new home can be exciting and exhilarating, but it can also be stressful. Take the time to prepare and make sure that you’re proceeding without forgetting anything.
