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The process of buying home is not only stressful but can feel like an eternity. Between getting the place inspected, appraised, getting your mortgage, price, closing costs and everything else… you’re exhausted. Then it’s time to finally move in and THAT’S when the real fun begins. Between all the things that must be running through your head and the lack of sleep you’ve probably been getting (believe us, we’ve been there), we decide to make a nice list to condense all the most important things you’ll need to take care of so you can knock everything off your to-do list.

Though before starting this list, you’ll want to prioritize the items on your list inspection report, as every home is different. Once those matters are taken care of, we can get started.

Get Familiar With Your New Home

Yeah, yeah, this might seem obvious, even self-explanatory – but there are a handful of things that you might not have thought of, especially with the number of tasks on your plate. To get started…

Learn where your main water shut off valve, gas shut-off valve, circuit box and sump pump are located. These are absolutely essential to know for when you have any water, gas or storm-related issues. Most of these are located either in your basement or garage.

Update Your New Home Address… Everywhere

This is certainly a hassle, but very important and the faster you get it out of the way, the better. Start by notifying your closest friends and family members in one swoop to ensure you don’t miss anyone important, then notify the post office and HR department at your job.

Start Shopping For Home Insurance

Next, you’ll want to protect your investment. Go shopping for the best rates from reputable insurances to find the best plan for you. Also, be sure to get acquainted with a licensed public adjuster so you can be prepared for even the worst of situations.

Connect Your Utilities

Contact your local utility companies, starting with the essentials like water, gas and electricity. Next, you’ll want to contact your local cable company for television and internet. P.S. We know how weird it feels to be in a home that isn’t connected. It’ll feel a lot more like home when this is done.

Make A Checklist Of Beautification Projects

Next, you’ll want to make a checklist of all the things that will make your home… yours. All of the things you envisioned when talking that first walk through the house, jot them down and prioritize which are most important. It may take months, or even years to get them all done, but at the very least it’ll be easier having a visual of what needs to be done.

Some common projects include (but are not limited to) replacing carpeting or flooring, painting siding, yard modifications.

Up Your Security Measures

Nothing quite makes you feel as safe as knowing you have reliable home security. This is a big step you should take, especially in select neighborhoods. To get started, you’ll want to visit your local hardware store and pick up some new locks. It’s best to switch out the locks on your front and back doors, as you never knew who had keys to your home before you moved in.

Then you’ll want to have duplicate keys cut so you can give them out to close friends and family.

Finally, consider having a home security system installed for that extra level of comfort and peace of mind. Most companies install free and have affordable monthly rates.

Plan For Emergencies

Every family needs a plan for the unexpected. It’s really important to have an evacuation plan for home fires, carbon monoxide threats and more. Plus you should take this time to stock important supplies such as fire extinguishers, first aid kits, flashlights (with batteries) just to name a few.

Create A Maintenance Plan

Having a clear, transparent maintenance plan is the best way to create a sustainable schedule for the whole family. Things like cleaning your dryer hose/vent to prevent fires, draining your water heater, cleaning your gutters and keeping up with your refrigerator are all things that will keep you safe and save you money down the line. It’s best to delegate tasks upfront so everyone is clear on what their responsibilities are.