Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone. After months of planning, negotiating, and paperwork, the keys are finally yours. But once the boxes are in and the movers have left, the real work begins. Here’s a guide to help you settle into your new home smoothly and efficiently.
Key Tasks to Tackle on Moving Day
Moving day is often hectic, but being prepared and available can make it go much more smoothly.
Be Present and Organized
Make yourself available to guide the movers, answer questions, and ensure your belongings are handled properly. Use a checklist to confirm that all your items arrive safely and are accounted for.
Check Essential Utilities and Safety Features
Before settling in, ensure that all utilities—electricity, water, gas, and internet—are functioning. Test lights, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, home security systems, and fire extinguishers. Installing new locks and testing your keys should also be a top priority for peace of mind.
The First Steps After Moving In
Once you’ve made it through moving day, the real task of turning your house into a home begins.
Start with Cleaning and Unpacking
Before unpacking, give all surfaces a quick wipe-down to prevent your belongings from picking up dirt or dust. While a full deep clean might not be practical on day one, tidying up high-traffic areas will make the process more comfortable.
Childproof and Make It Pet-Friendly
If you have young children or pets, focus on creating a safe and welcoming environment for them. Childproof the home by securing sharp edges, covering outlets, and installing baby gates where needed. For pets, ensure cleaning methods and materials used are safe for animals. Set up their spaces with food, water, and familiar bedding to help them adjust.
Organize and Set Up Key Areas First
Unpacking can be overwhelming, so start with the rooms you’ll need most in the first few days.
Focus on High-Use Rooms
Prioritize the bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchen. Setting up these essential spaces will make your first nights in the home more comfortable and functional. Organize closets, cabinets, and drawers logically to streamline daily tasks and prevent frustration later.
Tackle the Rest Room by Room
Once the essential areas are in order, move on to other parts of the house. Take your time and organize belongings thoughtfully to make your new home functional and enjoyable.
Update Your Personal Information
Moving into a new home comes with logistical tasks to ensure your life runs smoothly.
Update Your Address
Notify relevant organizations and services about your change of address. This includes the post office, banks, credit card companies, insurance providers, and subscription services. Setting up mail forwarding with the postal service is a great way to catch any mail sent to your old address during the transition.
Check Local Services and Registrations
Make sure to update your voter registration, driver’s license, and vehicle registration to reflect your new address. If applicable, research local utility providers or neighborhood services to make the most of your new location.
Settle Into Your New Space with Confidence
Moving into a new home is a process that takes time, but following these steps ensures you’re organized and prepared. From setting up essential rooms to updating your information, taking care of these details will help you feel at home faster. If you have any questions or need assistance finding your perfect home, contact Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices to get expert guidance tailored to your needs.