When it is your first or your last, moving into a new house is an fascinating adventure. Don't let that fun feeling of being a new homeowner keep you from achieving some necessary tasks to help you prepare for move-in day.
There are several items that you should ponder before moving in to your new house that involve some safety concerns and cleaning that could save you money and work in the future. Here are six things you should be aware of before moving into your new home in Tulsa and Oklahoma City:
1. Change the Locks
The first item you should always do when you move is update the locks, because you do not know who could possibly have a way to get into your home. You can install the locks easily yourself or pay a locksmith to do it. If you want to add a super upgrade to your home, go ahead and change the hardware along with the locks.
2. Check for Plumbing Leaks
The home was surely already inspected before you finalized the purchase, but it never hurts to take another look. You will want to scrutinize your water heater, water lines, drains, sinks, and toilets for any evidence of a leak. A dripping faucet or running toilet is something that you should 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 larger matters.
3. Replace and Check Filters
A home can have lots of different filters, and you should look at each one of them to see 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 quick and inexpensive project, and it could save you more money in the future.
4. Completely Clean the House
Putting in the effort to clean the house before you move in is much less difficult than after your belongings have been placed throughout your house. When the house is empty, you will be able to see all things that need to be cleaned. You want to clean 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 ideas 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 prior to you move in -- it will save headaches later.
6. Get Prepared for Anything in Tulsa and Oklahoma City
Anything could happen at any time, and it is best to be prepared for when it does. If possible, ask the sellers for a compilation of service companies that they previously used. Find out if they used lawn care services, plumbers, electricians, sprinkler services, pest control, or any other companies that could be helpful for you and your home. These companies usually have logs of past services that were completed at the home, which could be useful for any issues in the future.
A little bit of planning and maintenance before you move into your new home will go the extra mile, and it could even bring a little extra bit of happiness in Tulsa and Oklahoma City. It will also help you reduce some of the anxiety that comes with moving. These items won't steal too much of your time if you plan accordingly and begin right away!
