Published: November 15, 2023

Essential Pre-Move Checklist: Getting Your New Home Ready

Moving into a new home is an exciting and often hectic experience. While it’s tempting to dive right in and start unpacking, there are several important tasks you should consider completing before moving into your new space. These steps will help ensure a smooth transition and set you up for a successful start in your new home.

1. Clean and Prepare

Before you start moving in your belongings, take the time to thoroughly clean and prepare your new home. This is easier to do when the space is empty. Sweep, mop, and vacuum all floors, wipe down surfaces, and clean the windows. Check for any necessary repairs or maintenance tasks that need to be addressed, such as leaky faucets or peeling paint. You’ll thank yourself later for taking care of these tasks upfront.

2. Change the Locks

Security should be a top priority when moving into a new home. You never know who might have a spare key from the previous owner. To ensure your safety, consider changing the locks on all exterior doors. This will provide you with peace of mind and help you maintain control over who has access to your home.

3. Install New Hardware

If the previous owner’s taste in hardware doesn’t match your style, consider replacing doorknobs, handles, and other fixtures throughout the house. This simple update can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your new space.

4. Deep Clean Carpets and Floors

Even if the previous homeowners cleaned the carpets, it’s a good idea to schedule a professional carpet cleaning before moving in your furniture. This will remove any lingering odors or stains and ensure that your carpets are fresh and clean from day one.

5. Set up Utilities

Make sure to contact the utility companies well in advance to set up essential services like water, gas, electricity, and internet. You don’t want to move in only to discover that you’re without power or water. Plan ahead to avoid any unnecessary disruptions.

6. Pest Control

Schedule a pest control inspection and treatment if necessary. It’s much easier to address pest issues before moving in your belongings. A professional pest control service can help ensure that your new home is free from unwanted guests.

7. Plan Your Furniture Layout

Take measurements of each room and plan the layout of your furniture ahead of time. This will save you the headache of rearranging heavy pieces once they’re in the house. Having a clear plan will also help you make the most of your available space.

8. Paint and Decorate

If you want to paint or make significant decorative changes, it’s much easier to do so before moving in. Choose your paint colors and gather any necessary supplies so that you can tackle this project while the space is empty. This will save you from moving furniture around and potentially damaging your belongings.

9. Update Your Address

Don’t forget to update your address with the post office, your bank, and any other important institutions. This will ensure that your mail and important documents are sent to the right place from the start.

10. Pack a First-Night Box

As you pack your belongings, set aside a “first-night” box with essentials like toiletries, a change of clothes, and important documents. This box should have everything you’ll need for your first night in your new home, so you don’t have to look through boxes to find what you need.

11. Create an Inventory

Keep track of your belongings by creating an inventory list. This will help you ensure that everything arrives at your new home safely and that nothing is left behind during the move. It can also be helpful for insurance purposes.

Moving into a new home is a significant milestone, and taking the time to complete these tasks before moving in will make the transition smoother and more enjoyable. By planning ahead and being proactive, you’ll be able to easily settle into your new space and start creating wonderful memories in your new home. For help moving, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Northern NJ or call us at (973) 554-3431.