Buying a home is no small feat and can take quite a while. After you’ve closed on the property, though, now what? Well, there’s actually quite a lot that goes along with owning and maintaining a home, and there are things you’ll need to do to enjoy your home while maximizing your financial investment’s value.
If you’re moving into a new home, consider doing these things if you haven’t already.
Update Your Address
Before you start planning your housewarming party, it’s a good idea to update your address. After all, you don’t want any housewarming gifts being sent to your old home! You can change your address with the U.S. Post Office online in just a few minutes.
The post office will forward mail from your old address for a while, but you’ll still need to change any magazine subscriptions you might have, as well as notify your bank, doctor’s office, and employer of your new address.
Transfer Utilities
Do you know what really stinks? Moving into your new house and discovering there’s no electricity or water because you forgot to have the utilities turned on. You’ll want to find out in advance when your move-in date is and who your utility providers are for your new home so you can notify them of when you’d like the utilities turned on. A list of utility providers for Dripping Springs residents can be found on the city’s website.
If you’re moving from a different city, be sure to notify your water, electricity, gas, and internet provider of the last day you’ll need service. This can help in avoiding an unexpected bill down the line on an account that was never closed.
Make a Home Maintenance Checklist
Even if your home is brand spanking new, there will still be some little things you’ll want to check that may need a tweak here or there.
The first week after moving in:
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Replace air filters
- Find the main water shut off and electricity breaker box
- Change your locks
- Check outdoor lightbulbs
During the first year:
- Schedule an HVAC checkup – one before winter, one before summer
- Clean gutters
- Clean bathroom exhaust fans
- Clean dryer vent
- Fertilize lawn and mulch flower beds
- Give your home a deep clean at least twice a year
Create a Homeowner File
This is a tip that often gets ignored but can be incredibly helpful. Buy one of those big accordion-style folders from an office store and use this to store all the necessary documents regarding your home. Everything from home closing papers to major repair or renovation contracts, home inspection reports, appliance receipts, etc.
This will help you stay organized should you ever need to dig up a piece of information regarding your new home’s history.
Meet Your Neighbors
One of the most exciting things about moving to a new home is meeting the other residents who live in your community. From the walking trails to the dog run and events at the social hall, there are so many unique ways to get to know your neighbors within the Caliterra master-planned community. Keep an eye out for new community events, including the upcoming Summer Concert Series, on Caliterra’s Facebook page!
If you’d like to find your dream home here, reach out to us today!
