Moving into a new house is like an adventure. Between going over the contracts, signing the lease, getting your home renovated, and then actually making the move, it can be quite a task.
Having so much on your plate right can get overwhelming. Have no fear; we have created this new house checklist to help make your transition into your new home smooth and comfortable.
Pre-move Checklist
First Things to Do When You Move into Your New House
Find the time to sift through things and discard what you don’t need. There’s no use lugging unnecessary baggage around. You can hold a garage sale for things that are no longer of any use to you; some extra cash never hurt anybody.
If you see through the big tasks’ pre-move, the rest of the process is bound to go smoothly. Here are a few tasks you can tackle before the big move.
#1. Remember to transfer the utilities
Before you move in, make sure you have running water, electricity, and gas. Check with the physical utility companies and figure out a time to carry out the activation process.
#2. TV and internet installation
Do your homework before you settle for a cable or internet provider. Compare the pricing, connectivity ranges, etc. to decide which provider will work best for you. You don’t want to move into a dead zone.
Make sure you’re able to see through the installation a good 2 to 4 weeks in advance so when you do move in, you’ll have an active connection.
#3. Edit your address
Before you make a move, go to the USPS site, and select the date from when you will be living in your new house. Failure to do so can result in missing important letters, bills, and packages.
Update your address with all the companies you pay your bills to or have subscriptions and loyalty programs with — from banks and internet providers to insurance companies and credit card providers.
#4. Label your boxes properly
Packing your belongings in boxes is easy. The problem starts when you reach your new home and must browse through what seems like a million boxes to find one item.
To save yourself the trouble, label your boxes according to their contents. On the same note, all boxes containing fragile items should be marked as such, so the moving company can take extra measures to avoid any damage en route.
#5. Home improvements
Home improvements and repairs are a big part of moving into a new home. Repairs like leaky plumbing, creaky floorboards, etc. are the responsibility of the previous owners of your property management company and should be seen before you make the move.
Home improvement doesn’t only include your bathroom, living room, or kitchen. Your garage will also need maintenance and repair from time to time. Garage door repairs will be essential to ensure that the doors are still working as they should and that panels are not torn or worn out.
Things to Avoid While Moving into a New House
To make your move easier, cost-effective, and less stressful, avoid making these moving mistakes and come up with strategies that will help you steer clear of potential issues.
#1. No clear planning and packing
While relocating, it’s important to plan. As soon as you get a move-in date, get to work. Starting too late can unnecessarily prolong the whole process. Imagine having to revolve around packed boxes all because we were too lazy to start packing at the right time.
#2. Not using professional services, thinking you can DIY your way through it
Professional movers know their job. They’re more well-versed in this field than all your friends and relatives combined. Moving companies have the right materials and equipment and do their jobs much faster than you and I.
#3. Not taking measurements of the new house
For the furniture to fit just right, you need to have the correct measurement. Don’t hurry the purchasing process. Look at the layout of the house first and take professional advice if necessary.
#4. Skimping on insurance
When you look for moving companies, make sure you check the insurance options beforehand. Some homeowners’ insurance policies cover items in transit, so remember to diligently do your homework before settling with one.
#5. Ignoring your pets
Pets get anxious, stressed, and scared when introduced to a different environment. Give them lots of pets and cuddles, take them for a walk to help ease their anxiety, and make sure you’re providing them with the right food and playtime and that they are feeling safe.
#6. Being a hoarder
Don’t get rid of everything. Just make sure you’re not carrying unnecessary items that’ll just add to your workload. Hold a garage or backyard sale to sell the items off or donate them to goodwill.
Move-in Day Essentials
When you move to a new house, you must have the necessities covered beforehand. Is there food in your fridge to last you the day/night? Does everybody in the house have their blankets and comforters?
Here’s what you may need to ensure you’re covered for your move-in day:
• Clean bedding and pillows
• Cleaning supplies
• Change of clothes
• Toiletries
• Charger, batteries, and flashlight
• Medication/first-aid kit
• Keys, cash, and documentation
• A toolkit
• Healthy snacks and beverages
• Emergency/Important contact numbers
• Pet food and other essentials
• Plates, utensils, and cups
• Toilet Paper
• Paper, duct tape, and scissors
Post-Move Essentials
When you start planning the move, make a list of all the things you need according to the room. Having a checklist can simplify this process.
For the Kitchen
The kitchen is one of the most important parts of the house. You can’t afford to forget anything of consequence. Here’s what you need:
• Kitchen appliances like refrigerator, oven, and toaster
• Utensils such as pots, pans, and cups
• Groceries
• Dish soap, sponges, paper towels
• Sealable containers
• Trash cans and bags
• Drying rack
For the Living Room
The living room is a big part of the house, one where you will be spending the most time and attending guests. Here’s all you’ll need:
• TV and a TV stand
• Lamps
• Sofa and coffee table
• Decorative items and rugs
• Pillows and throw blankets
• Key hooks
• Curtain rods and hooks
• A/C, air purifier, humidifier
For the Bathroom
These are the things you’ll need to keep your bathroom fully functional:
• Non-skid bathmat
• Towels
• Toilet paper Holder
• Hand-soap dispenser
• Mirror
• Trashcan
• Showerhead, shower curtains
• Plunger, toilet brush
• Towel racks
• Air freshener and candles
For the Laundry Room
You can stock your laundry room with these supplies:
• Detergent
• Dryer sheets
• Stain/odor removers
• Laundry baskets
• Drying rack
• Ironing board
• Folding station
• Trash can
• Dryer balls
• Clothesline and clothespin
For the Bedroom
Bedroom essentials tend to differ from person to person, according to their preferences, but these must-haves remain constant:
• A sturdy and stylish headboard
• Curtains
• A bench at the foot of the bed
• Good lighting
• A mirror
• A dresser and nightstand
• Photos and photo frames
• Alarm clock
• Electronic plug-ins and socket
For the Entryway
Entryways are usually small, so it’s probably best to stick with the basics.
Here’s what you’ll need:
• A good coat rack
• A bench, stool, or chair
• Mirror
• A bowl or tray to keep the keys, sunglasses, etc.
• Good lighting
• A weather-resistant rug
Storage Essentials
Storage items are godsent. Depending on the house, you may need some storage essentials to make your life in the new house a smooth ride.
Here’s a list of storage essentials you may need in your new house:
• Shoe rack
• Storage bins
• Jewelry/closet organizer
• Hangers
Safety Essentials
Safety should always be your priority. Be sure to take all the safety precautions necessary to ensure a safe stay. Here’s a list of essential items that can help protect you and your family:
• Home security system
• New lock and keys
• Fire extinguisher
• Smoke/carbon monoxide detectors
• Surge protectors
• An inverter
Tips
#1. Start early. Avoid leaving anything until the last minute.
#2. Create an itemized list and schedule everything.
#3. Figure out a strategy that works best for you.
#4. Involve everyone in the planning.
#5. Label your boxes properly so your movers know what to expect and treat the box with care.
#6. Purge what you don’t need. The last thing you need at your new house is unnecessary baggage.
#7. Protect your valuables. If possible, carry them with you instead of leaving them with the moving company.
#8. Don’t pack things in garbage bags. There’s a strong chance someone will mistake it as trash and throw it away.
#9. Introduce yourself and your family to your neighbors; inform them of your move beforehand to ensure a smooth sail.
#10. Tip or treat your movers. A little kindness goes a long way.
#11. Always have a survival kit handy.
#12. Hire a pet and babysitter on your move-in day to help avoid the ruckus of moving and allow your movers to navigate around your house easily without the fear of stumbling into running kids and pets.
Takeaway
Here are a few more tips you can use to help with your move. Following a carefully curated new house checklist can help make your move much easier. Your checklist can, of course, differ from that of the next person. What I have given here is not a standard list; it can be edited to your liking based on your needs. I hope you have a smooth sail to your new house.