So, you’ve found the house of your dreams – a home. The layout is inviting, the rooms are spacious, and the interior is eye-catching.
While we understand the temptation of finalizing the deal as early as possible, take a moment to go through your move-in checklist. And if you haven’t already, add these five final things to it:
1. Schedule a Home Inspection
This is a no-brainer, especially when you’re buying a used house. A home inspection will reveal the true condition of the property. A professional home inspection company will conduct a thorough and comprehensive examination of the home’s accessible interior and exterior components. This includes:
- The foundation
- Roof
- HVAC system
- Plumbing
- Electrical wiring
They go beyond a simple walk-in and assess every corner of your soon-to-be home.
Home inspection also helps uncover any safety issues, such as faulty wiring, gas leaks, structural weaknesses, and the presence of mold. They utilize professional tools and adhere to industry standards so you can have peace of mind.
The best part? A home inspection helps you avoid unexpected expenses later on. When the condition of the property is laid bare, you can ask the owner to make the necessary repairs.
2. Think of Outdoor Lighting
We agree – An eye-catching and modern interior is super important. But so is the outdoor aesthetics of a house. A well-lit outdoor space not only makes a house attractive but also ensures the safety of your loved ones.
Functional outdoor lighting deters crime, prevents accidents, and allows you to fully enjoy the outdoor space. You can install floodlights, path lights, and motion-sensor lights.
Want to give off a homely and cozy vibe? Outdoor lantern lights are the way to go! They can elevate your outdoor space and even increase the resale value (something that’ll pay off later).
3. Change the Locks
Many first-time homebuyers overlook this. Before moving in, change all the locks to ensure security and control over who has access to your house. This includes the exterior doors, back doors, and garage doors.
Even if the previous owners have handed over the keys, copies might exist. Many people give out duplicate keys to their friends, family members, and frequent contractors.
Moreover, old locks might be outdated and thus, easy to break into. This is why replacing the locks is the best option. You can also install locks with advanced features, such as:
- Keyless convenience
- Voice command door locking
- Remote access control
With modern looks, you can integrate other smart home devices and ensure convenient living.
4. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential for the safety of your loved ones.
Make sure both are functioning properly to protect your home from fires and other emergencies. Install new batteries or get them replaced if there are any cracks.
5. Confirm All Utilities are Up and Running
Lastly, make sure all the utilities are working. This includes:
- Electricity
- Gas
- Water services
You should also contact utility companies to start a bill in your name.