Buying a home is one of the most exciting milestones in life. After months of searching, working with your real estate agent, and dealing with all the paperwork, you finally have the keys to your new home in hand. But before you kick back and relax, there are a few important things you should do to ensure your home is safe, secure, and ready for you to move in. Whether you’ve just closed on a cozy house or a spacious new build in Westlake Village, here’s what you need to do right away.
1. Change the Locks
The first thing you should do after getting your keys is change the locks. Even if the previous owners gave you their set of keys, you can never be sure how many copies are floating around. Maybe they gave one to a neighbor or a family member. To keep your new home secure, changing or rekeying all exterior doors is a smart move.
If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, ask your real estate agent in Westlake Village for recommendations on locksmiths in the area.
2. Do a Deep Clean
Even if the previous owners left the place looking spotless, there’s nothing like starting fresh with a deep clean of your own. Scrubbing floors, washing windows, and sanitizing surfaces will not only make the home feel cleaner, but it’ll also give you a chance to inspect every nook and cranny. You may discover spots that need repairs or upgrades before you start unpacking.
Consider hiring professional cleaners if the home is large or has difficult-to-clean areas like carpets or high ceilings. Your real estate agent in Westlake Village might also know local services that can help with this.
3. Check Safety Features
Ensuring your new home is safe for you and your family should be a top priority. Start by testing smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. Replace any dead or missing batteries, and if the devices look outdated, swap them out for newer models.
While you’re at it, locate the circuit breaker and learn how to turn off the main water supply. Knowing how to shut these off in an emergency could save you a lot of trouble later on.
4. Change Your Address and Update Utilities
After buying a home, you’ll need to update your address with the post office, banks, and any services that send you regular mail. Go to the USPS website to forward your mail, so you don’t miss anything important.
Don’t forget to set up or transfer your utilities. This includes electricity, water, gas, internet, and trash services. A quick call to your utility companies will ensure everything is working by the time you’re ready to move in. You can ask your Westlake Village real estate agent if they have utility company contacts to make the process smoother.
5. Review Your Homeowners Insurance
Before closing on your home, you probably already set up homeowners insurance. Now is the time to review your policy and make sure you have the right coverage in place. Does it cover things like natural disasters, flooding, or fires? If not, it’s a good idea to explore your options and add any extra coverage you might need. Better to be safe than sorry.
6. Get to Know Your Home
One of the best parts about moving into a new home is exploring it! Take some time to get familiar with your property, both inside and out. Locate important things like water shutoff valves, the breaker box, and your HVAC system. If there are any appliances or systems that you’re not familiar with, look for the manuals or find online resources that explain how to use them properly.
Getting a home inspection report is helpful because it highlights what areas might need repairs or extra care.
7. Introduce Yourself to the Neighbors
Building a relationship with your neighbors can help you feel more at home and give you a sense of community. It’s also nice to have friendly faces nearby in case you need a helping hand with anything. Whether it’s a quick wave or a full conversation, making an effort to introduce yourself can set a positive tone for your time in the neighborhood.
Westlake Village is known for its warm, welcoming community, so you’ll likely find people who are eager to meet you.
8. Plan for Home Improvements
As you settle into your new place, you may start noticing little things you’d like to update or improve. This could be anything from painting the walls to replacing kitchen countertops or upgrading the bathroom. Take your time to prioritize which projects are most important and budget for them accordingly.
If you need professional help, your real estate agent westlake village can often recommend trusted local contractors for your home improvement needs.
9. Get Started on Unpacking
Once all the essential tasks are done, it’s time to start unpacking! Start with the basics: bedding, toiletries, and kitchen essentials. Take it one room at a time so you don’t feel overwhelmed. Personalizing your space is what really makes it feel like home, so don’t rush through the process. Enjoy settling in and making the space your own!
Conclusion
Getting your new home keys is an exciting moment, but it also marks the beginning of a new journey. By taking these steps after buying your home, you’ll set yourself up for a smooth transition and help ensure that your new space is safe, comfortable, and ready for you to enjoy. Whether you’re new to Westlake Village or just moving within the area, your real estate agent is always a helpful resource for any questions or recommendations you may need along the way.
