Moving into a new home is exciting, but without proper planning, it can quickly turn into chaos. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned mover, a checklist for moving into a new house helps ensure nothing important is overlooked.
From cleaning and safety to setting up utilities and meeting your neighbors, this foolproof guide will walk you through the steps you need to take before and after the move. Let’s break it down.
Before anything else, pick a moving date. Try to avoid weekends or the end of the month, as those are peak moving times. Once you’ve confirmed the date, book your local movers well in advance to ensure availability.You can explore reputable options like U.S. News' Best Moving Companies to find reliable services in your area.
This is one of the most important things to do before moving. Make sure electricity, gas, water, internet, and trash services are set up in your new home before you arrive.
Call your current utility providers and let them know your move-out date. Then, coordinate service start dates with providers at your new address to avoid any interruptions.
Updating your address is a vital step in your new house checklist. Visit the USPS change of address portal to reroute your mail. Notify your bank, insurance providers, subscriptions, and employer.Don't forget to update your driver’s license and vehicle registration if you're moving to a new state.
No one wants to move into a dirty home. Before your belongings arrive, give your new place a thorough cleaning. Scrub floors, baseboards, cabinets, and bathrooms.If time is tight, consider hiring a professional cleaning service. This is especially helpful if the previous owners left behind dirt or pet odors.
Safety should be at the top of your checklist for moving into a new house. Change all exterior locks and garage codes as soon as possible. Install security cameras or doorbell cams for extra peace of mind.Many security companies offer packages tailored for new homeowners. Don’t forget to test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms as well.
Once you’ve got the keys, walk through your house and take note of any needed repairs. Test faucets, flush toilets, check electrical outlets, and look for signs of leaks or pests.
Make a list of things that need fixing and prioritize what’s urgent. Tackling small issues early can save you from bigger problems later.
Measure rooms and large furniture ahead of the move to avoid surprises. Create a basic layout or use free online tools to plan where everything should go.
This step makes moving day smoother because you’ll be able to direct local movers exactly where each item should be placed. It also helps reduce post-move rearranging.
Before packing everything, set aside a box of first-night essentials. Include items like:
Having these items easily accessible will help you avoid rummaging through boxes on your first night.
Label each box with its contents and destination room. Use color-coded labels or markers to speed up the unloading process.This simple tip makes unpacking less overwhelming and saves time for both you and your local movers on moving day.
If you’re bringing your fridge or freezer, unplug it at least 24 hours before moving. Let it defrost and clean it thoroughly to prevent mold or odors.
Also, make sure other appliances like your washer and dryer are disconnected and secured for transport.
Contact your home, auto, and health insurance providers to update your address. Make sure your new home is covered starting on move-in day.
You might also want to shop around for new homeowners insurance policies to ensure you’re getting the best rate for your new location.
Getting your internet and cable set up may take a few days, so it’s best to schedule installation in advance. Research local providers and compare plans.If you’re working from home, ensure your Wi-Fi is up and running before move-in day to avoid any disruption.
After moving into a new house, take time to introduce yourself to your neighbors. A simple wave or short chat can help build a friendly relationship.Joining community Facebook groups or apps like Nextdoor can also help you stay informed and connected with local events and alerts.
Start with essential rooms like the kitchen, bathroom, and bedrooms. Don’t rush to unpack everything in a day—tackle one room at a time to stay organized.
This method keeps your home from becoming cluttered and reduces stress during the settling-in process.
Your new house checklist should include setting up a maintenance plan. Change HVAC filters, clean gutters, test your water heater, and note the age of key appliances.
Create a seasonal checklist to help you stay on top of upkeep and avoid costly repairs in the future.
Make sure your emergency contacts are updated with your new address. Locate nearby hospitals, police stations, fire departments, and pharmacies.
Save these numbers in your phone and write them down somewhere accessible in your home.
If your new home is in an HOA community, take time to read through their rules and guidelines. These may include restrictions on parking, landscaping, or exterior paint colors.
Understanding the regulations early helps prevent violations or fines.
Once you’re finished unpacking, don’t let boxes pile up. Recycle cardboard and plastic wrap, or offer boxes to someone else who’s planning a move.
Some local movers may even take back used boxes if they’re still in good shape. Check with your provider.
Make your space feel like home with small touches. Hang photos, light candles, or add cozy rugs. These personal items make the environment feel warm and inviting.
Decorating is the fun part of moving into a new house—take your time and enjoy the process.
After completing your checklist for moving into a new house, take a moment to celebrate. Host a small gathering, pop a bottle of champagne, or enjoy a quiet dinner on the floor with takeout.
Moving is a big milestone, and it deserves to be acknowledged and enjoyed.
