Change the Locks. Even if you know the sellers, you don’t know who they gave a key to, such as tradespeople, pet sitters, house cleaners, etc. A locksmith can readily rekey all your locks, and it’s well worth the cost.
Change Your Mailing Address. Notify the post office to forward mail from your old address to your new one, and tell everyone who sends you bills, as well as any magazines and newspapers you subscribe to.
Get a Binder or File Bin to Store All Manuals and Warranties. When an appliance or household system has a problem, you want to find out what to do, without searching around online, and you want to see if the manufacturer will cover repair or replacement costs.
Install Fire Extinguishers. Place them in convenient spots in the kitchen, garage, and on every floor.
Install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detectors. If they’re already there, install fresh batteries. Check how old they are and replace them if necessary. Smoke inhalation is the most common cause of fire-related deaths, and nearly two-thirds of all home fire deaths happen in homes without working smoke alarms.
Install Fire Escape Ladders in Every Upstairs Room. You have an average of two minutes to escape from a home that’s on fire before smoke and flames engulf the premises. Home escape ladders are easy to use, well-constructed, and affordable.
Find Out How to Shut Off the Main Water and Gas Lines. Be prepared if a water or gas leak occurs in your home. The first thing you’ll need to do is turn off the main water or gas line before calling the appropriate utility.
Close All Utility Accounts at Your Old House. Let them know the last day you were living in the home and using their services.
Set Up Your New Utilities Accounts. Confirm with them the first day you moved into your new home and began paying for their services.
Get a Bank Safe Deposit Box, Fireproof Lock Box, or Home Safe. Use it to securely store your deed, closing papers, fine jewelry, and important personal papers.
Open Two Savings Accounts. Put money in one to cover future maintenance costs. Experts suggest having $5,000 to $10,000 available for repairs and system replacements, depending on the home’s age and condition. The other savings account is an emergency fund with three to six months of essential living expenses, should an unexpected situation arise. Start contributing to these accounts now and make funding them a priority.
Meet the Neighbors!
Thinking of selling or buying a home? Please text, call, or email us to learn about your best options today!
