After going through the process of buying a new home, the last thing you want to think about is working on home improvements. Although it will not sound ideal, there are some projects you will want to get on top of before you fully settle in. Some of these projects are easier to accomplish before all your furniture is set up, and some are just safety measures.
- Change Your Locks
This is one of the first things that you should do after moving into a new house. You can either replace the locks or get them rekeyed. You never know how many people have been in contact with the keys over the years and they could have even been copied. Unfortunately a recent Home Depot survey found that more than half of baby boomers, a third of Gen X, and under half of millennials have not changed their locks. Better to be safe than sorry!
2. Change Alarm Batteries
This is one thing that cannot go ignored. It may not be the top of your mind when going through boxes and unpacking from a move, but it’s very important. Take care of this now so you do not have to worry about it. It is also best to do this when the house is empty.
3. Spackle Holes and Repaint
You may move in, set up all your furniture and decor, and think “hmm, I wish I painted those walls first.” If you think you are going to want to repaint somewhere down the line, do it first. Spackle any holes in the wall from previous owners, and then begin painting. You want to do all of this before you are fully moved in and decorated. Waiting will only make this a bigger task.
4. Childproofing
If you need to, childproof your home. Accidental injuries are too common in young kids and more than a third of those accidents happen at home. Think about where you would need a safety gate, electrical socket covers, or cabinet locks. The quicker you childproof the house, the safer you will feel.
5. Take Care of Carpets and Flooring
If you move into a home that has old carpeting, give them a deep clean before you move in so that there is no furniture to navigate around. You can rent a carpet cleaning machine that will get the job done. If you have hardwood flooring to clean, you will need the right solution. Clean up all the floors so they are fresh and ready for all of your belongings to be placed on top!
