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September
14
14
What You Need to do After Buying a Home
There's a lot to do when buying a home, and once the closing documents are signed and the keys are in your hand, you might think that the hard work is over. However, once you actually own your new home, there are still a few things you need to do to ensure the safety of your new space and to help your family get comfortable in your new digs. Here are a few things to do after you buy your home.
- Change the Locks and Security Codes
Even if the previous homeowners seem like kind people, you don't know how many people potentially have access to your new home. One of the first things you need to do is change or rekey the locks. If you want to update the look of your home's locks, you can swap the old locks for new ones. However, if you like the look of the old looks or if you're on a budget, you can have the locks rekeyed. When you have a lock rekeyed, the locksmith will adjust the pins and springs so that it fits a different key. Make sure to also change any security codes that potentially provide access to your home, like garage, security system, or gate codes.
- Have the Utilities Set Up
When moving to a new place, you'll need to have the utilities set up or switched to your name. Our real estate agents know that it can take time to establish utilities in a new home. Try to call at least a couple of weeks before your anticipated moving date. This will give you a chance to schedule any installation services and work out any problems that might arise. Be sure to remember the following:
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- Internet service
- Cable service
- Landline phone service
- Trash pickup
- Water and sewer
- Electricity
- Natural gas or propane
- Security monitoring
- Make a To-Do List and Prioritize Your New Home Chores
Once you're in your home, break out your home inspection report and decide which items are must-dos (tasks that are safety hazards or that can turn into larger repairs) and what jobs are just things you would like to get done. Even the most picturesque Augusta homes for sale typically have a few repairs or upgrades that their buyers need to make. See what items your home inspector recommended that you fix as soon as possible and prioritize those tasks. If you wanted to paint your new home, decide if you want to do so before moving in. Some households are fine painting as they go after they move in, while others prefer to knock the job out before they move all their furnishings in. Any overdue home maintenance (like clogged gutters or a dirty air filter) should also go to the top of your to-do list.
- Locate the Circuit Box and Shut-Off Valves
It's important to be prepared for the unexpected. Make sure that you know where the circuit breaker box is so that you can cut off the electricity if needed. Check that all the fuses are clearly labeled so that you know what each switch controls. You should also locate the main water shut-off valve so that you can quickly cut the water off if there's a leak or other water-related emergency. If your home has natural gas, you must also find the shut-off valve for your gas.
Ready to start searching for your next home? Contact us today to get started!