Whether it is your first or your last, moving into a new house is an exciting adventure. Don't let that fun feeling of being a new homeowner keep you from carrying out some essential tasks to help you prepare for move-in day.
There are some tasks that you should think about before moving in to your new house that involve some safety considerations and cleaning that should save you money and hassle in the future. Here are six things you should know prior to moving into your new home in Austin:
1. Update the Locks
The first thing you should always do when you move is update the locks, because you do not know who could have a key to your home. You can install the locks with ease yourself or pay a locksmith for a low-cost. If you want to add a little upgrade to your home, go ahead and change out the hardware along with the locks.
2. Check for Plumbing Leaks
The home was most likely already inspected before you purchased it, but it doesn’t hurts to take another look. You need to give the once-over to your water heater, water lines, drains, sinks, and toilets for any indication of a leak. A dripping faucet or running toilet is something that you will want to repair as well before it leads to a massive affair. Many of the small problems are great do-it-yourself projects, but you should call a plumber for any and all major matters.
3. Replace and Check Filters
A dwelling can have lots of kinds of filters, and you should inspect 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 lots of money down the road.
4. Completely Clean the House
Spending the time to clean the house before you move in is much more easily done than after your things have been situated throughout your residence. When the house is empty, you will be able to see all issues that need to be cleaned. You want to wash anything that could have been left behind from the preceeding 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. Install Home Technology
Prior to moving your things 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 before you move in -- it will save headaches later on.
6. Get Prepared for Anything in Austin
Anything could happen at any time, and it is best to be ready for when it does. If possible, ask the previous homeowners for a compilation of service companies that they previously did business with. Find out if they utilized lawn care services, plumbers, electricians, sprinkler services, pest control, or any other companies that could be helpful for you and your home. These companies most likely have logs of past services that were performed at the home, which will be valuable for any issues in the future.
A little bit of work and maintenance before you move into your new home will go far, and it could even bring a little extra bit of happiness in Austin. It will also help you reduce some of the anxiety that comes with your upcoming move. These items won't take too much of your time if you plan accordingly and begin today!
