Moving into a new house can be overwhelming, especially if it’s been a long time since you last changed houses.
Your real estate agent must’ve told you everything you need to know, but it wouldn’t hurt to do a little digging of your own. Sometimes overlooking the smallest details can prove to be costly in the long run and you’d wish you had known about them sooner.
Look for top rated realtors in Myrtle Beach if you’re planning to move there to make sure you’re getting a great deal because buying a house is an investment. If you play smart and keep a keen eye on everything, you’ll be reaping the benefits for years to come.
Before settling into your new house, make sure you’ve done the following.
#1: Inspect for Signs of Damage
The first thing you need to do before finalizing the date of moving is to inspect your new house from inside out. The last thing you want is to get comfortable in your new place only to find major problem areas that need serious attention. Make sure to go over every corner and crevice to spot anything that needs urgent repair.
Keep a lookout for plumbing leaks or running toilets and get them replaced right away. One great way of doing this would be to take the readings of the water meter before and after a couple of hours. During these hours, don’t use water anywhere inside the house. If there’s a difference in the two readings, then that means you have a leaking problem on your hands.
But that’s not all, examine the front yard and the backyard thoroughly for any damages and get them repaired.
#2: Get It Cleaned
The house’s previous owners may not leave the house clean for you, so you may have to do it all on your own. You can hire a cleaning service or get your own hands dirty if you have extra time. Make sure to go over the front yard as well to enhance your home’s curb appeal.
Get the necessary cleaning supplies like mops, vacuum cleaners, buckets, rubber gloves, a water hose, etc. Go over all the cabinets, counters, baseboards, and floorboards and scrub out any grime or mold. Don’t miss a single spot so that your house looks particularly clean for your first ever housewarming party.
Get a pest control service to carry out an inspection and make sure there aren’t any signs of a pest infestation in your house. If you find out about this after moving in, it will be extremely difficult for you to continue living in the house and exterminate these unwanted housemates properly.
#3: Set up a Security System
Setting up a home security system is extremely important, especially if you don’t know much about the neighbourhood you’re moving into. Contact a security company to install the necessary equipment and get them activated.
If your home comes with a security system in place, then make sure it works properly by carrying out test break-ins.
#4: Change the Locks for Privacy
Right after you’ve been handed the keys to your new home, get a locksmith and change all your locks. Maybe the previous owner gave spare keys to their real estate agents or their friends and family members, you never know.
This is a necessary step that you must take to ensure privacy because you’re most probably unfamiliar with the neighbourhood. It’s better to stay safe than to take any chances.
#5: Add a UV Film to Your Home’s Windows
Ultraviolet rays can damage your home’s furnishings, floors and walls over time. That’s why you need to add UV film to the windows before moving in. These films can help block out up to 99% of UV rays and protect your home interior.
If you get heat-control films, your house won’t lose heat during winter and you’ll likely spend a lot less on electricity bills. Carefully select the best-looking films for your house that’ll go perfectly with the theme you have in mind.
#6: Install New Switch Plates
If your house is relatively old, then it may have gone through a number of renovations. If you notice mismatched power outlets or discoloured switch plates, then you need to ask your electrician to inspect everything and replace the older switch plates with newer, nicer ones.
Corroded or dirty switch plates can bring down your house’s entire look. Make sure the colours you’re going with complement the walls.
#7: Paint the Walls
You don’t want to move into a house that has paint peeling off the walls. Even if the former homeowners took great care of the house, the walls can start looking withered with time. The right paint job can hide any defects and make your house look brand new.
Instead of doing it yourself, hire professionals so they can cover every spot in a short amount of time. Go with neutral colours for the walls because you haven’t really lived in it to understand how the lighting hits different rooms.
Final Words
After you’ve covered these basics, you’ll feel a lot more comfortable moving into your new place. Every house has a few problems, but with the right attitude, you can make any shortcoming seem like not that big of a deal.
Take great care of your new house and spend time and money on maintenance to increase your home’s worth. This way, you’ll be able to sell it to your ideal buyers if you decide to move house again in the future.
