Buying a home is a tedious process without Maidstone Letting Agents. It doesn’t end with simply purchasing one. There are still several procedures to take and documents to sign before you may enter through the front door. Also, you must remodel the property to your requirements and ensure that you are prepared for the trials of homeownership. Nevertheless, you will feel relieved when it’s all done and you finally have your keys.
However, don’t get too comfortable yet. Here are seven crucial steps you must take after buying a home.
Create a Maintenance Strategy.
Your new home demands upkeep that goes beyond regular cleaning. These responsibilities include:
- HVAC Filters
HVAC filters are relatively simple to replace if you know where they are, and they must be changed every three months. In addition, most air conditioning and heating systems feature a washable filter that you can remove and clean, so ensure you inspect what you have when you move in.
- Refrigerator
Simple maintenance may extend the life of your refrigerator significantly. Once a month, empty your ice bins. Next, wipe the condenser coils and examine the door gasket every three months. Because newer refrigerators have insulated coils, cleaning is unnecessary. Instead, clean the water filter and, if necessary, wash the drain hole every six months.
- Gutter
Clean up your gutters once a year, preferably more often if you have trees on your property. Not washing your gutters may cause significant damage to your property, such as mold and structural problems.
- Water Heater
Rinse away any debris accumulated in your water heater once a year. If you have a tankless water heater and reside in a hard water location, consider having a professional come once a year to clean it thoroughly.
- Washer Vent and Hose
If the vents and hose are not cleansed regularly, your dryer might become a fire danger. Inspect your dryer at least once a year to ensure everything is operating correctly, and more often if there is a problem.
Integrate Your Utilities.
No one wishes to live in a world without the internet, so arrange a time to attach your internet and cables. You should plan ahead of time when you have your deadline so you don’t have to go without the internet for a week while waiting for an appointment. You may also need to be at home when the technician comes, so plan accordingly.
Furthermore, changing over the water, gas, and electric bills to your name may be a little simpler. Contact them to find out what must be completed before transferring the accounts to your name. It is also critical to ensure that the former homeowners have no outstanding payments or arrears to utility suppliers since this might complicate the account’s smooth transfer. Also, remember that certain areas may charge you for garbage and recycling collection.
Get Emergency Supplies
It’s good to have emergency equipment such as a radio, flashlights, escape ladder, and fire extinguisher on hand. This is particularly crucial if you reside in a region prone to natural catastrophes during specific seasons. If you’ve just started, investing in a first-aid kit, additional water, batteries, and a power bank to charge your cellphone when the power goes out is a good idea.
Strengthen Your Security.
When transferring to your new house, ensure you change all locks, doors, and security codes. You don’t want the former homeowners to be able to enter your home because you overlooked this crucial step. If you’re putting it off, look around the property for concealed extra keys, such as the tops of door frames and behind rocks on the porch. If you need more help, see a locksmith near me in Charlotte NC to ensure the security of your new home.
Furthermore, make additional keys to get in if you are locked out. Since you don’t want to risk damaging your new screens or windows by climbing through them while stranded outdoors, hide a key on rocks and figurines and put one in your yard or garden to guarantee you’re never locked out.
Make Friends With Your Neighbors.
Now, introduce yourself to your new neighbors. Neighbors may be an excellent source of information about what’s happening in the area and referrals for handypersons, gardening, and other services.
Are there any neighborhood gatherings you should attend? Is there an annual block celebration or BBQ in the neighborhood? A neighborhood-specific social community is also an excellent way to remain updated about activities, share safety advice, and even locate babysitters/house sitters. If you don’t know how to introduce yourself, a small party might be a terrific way to meet your neighbors.
Get a Home Insurance.
Homeowners’ plans include a section on protecting your house and its belongings, and it’s a good idea to develop a home inventory to know what kind of insurance you need. If you’re unsure where to begin, consult with your agent about the best approach, and ensure that you keep all documents in a secure location.
In addition, most owners’ primary asset is their house; thus, it makes sense to safeguard that asset. For insurance reasons, many owners take photos or videos of their homes and belongings to store them in a safe deposit box. Your insurance company may advise you on what to photograph and how to safeguard it. Furthermore, You have to keep your fire, theft, and liability insurance current. As the value of your house rises, so will the coverage. Again, specifics should be discussed with your insurance expert.
Update Your Address.
When you change addresses, you must inform several organizations. Your employers require your address for tax forms and other vital papers. Even the applications you use to get groceries or takeout must be aware of the new delivery location.
Conclusion
The steps mentioned above must be considered when purchasing a new house, whether you are a first-time homeowner or buying your second or third home. Remember, just because you have the keys to the front door doesn’t mean the job is over. Hence, follow those steps and get the most out of your new house.