New homeowner checklist: 5 essential things to do when moving in

Owning a home in today’s market is a significant accomplishment and one you should be proud of. So if you’re starting your home buying journey and are prioritizing the pre-purchase plans–like finding your agent, getting your mortgage, and even calculating your monthly costs–it’s also important to think about what you need to do once you lock in your home.

That’s why we put together this list of the five essential things you need to do when moving into your new home. 

1. Schedule time for a deep clean or do it yourself 

At the time of purchase, your home likely looked nice and tidy. But between multiple showings (with shoes on) and movers, your house may not be quite as squeaky clean by the time you get the keys. If you have the financial flexibility, it’s a great idea to schedule a deep clean with a cleaning service so you can move in with peace of mind. Or, if you’re able to perform the clean yourself and have time to spare, that will work too. 

2. Do a safety sweep 

You’ll want to conduct a safety sweep as soon as you get the keys. This means testing your smoke detectors and HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) systems to make sure they are all working well. 

If you’re moving with kids and pets, put safety gates at the top and bottom of all stairs and covers over all electrical outlets. Secure heavy furniture to the wall, lock windows, and keep electrical and window cords out of reach of kids and pets. Plus, this sweep gives you a chance to make a mental note of any renovations you’d like to do in the future. 

3. Change the locks  

Speaking of safety, one of the first things you should do when you get the keys to your home is to change them. Who knows when the last time the locks were changed, and who else might have a copy. The previous owners could have handed them out to friends and neighbours, and they could have even made their own! Take control of you and your families safety and update the locks as soon as you can. 

4. Transfer utilities and change your address 

Be sure to make sure your utility accounts at your old residence are closed or moved to your new address. If you’re moving to a new location, you’ll need to do a bit of research before you move to see how utilities and services work in your new area, or you can ask the previous owner (provided it’s not a new build). Then you can set up utilities in the following order: 

• Water 
• Gas 
• Electricity 
• Trash and recycling collection 

While you’re updating your address with the utility providers, you can also update your address at the post office and with the CRA, your bank, and your employer. 

5. Get connected quick 

In today’s hybrid work environment, connectivity is key. If you’re moving to a new area and plan to work remotely, you’re going to need seamless internet and phone service. Depending on where you’re moving, your provider may be able to transfer your current service to your new location. Reach out to them ASAP to find out, and if not, you’ll need to transfer to a new provider in the area. Either way, a technician will be able to come and help you get up and running for a fee. 

Even if you’re not working from home—you’ll still want to get your internet set up quickly, because who doesn’t want their streaming services up and running? And being able to stay connected with friends and family, obviously. 

Bonus tip: Meet people in your neighbourhood and have fun 

Moving to a new city, town or neighbourhood is exciting, and your neighbours are probably excited about it, too. If you’re moving to a condo, spend time in the common areas to meet people. Or, if you’ve moved to a home (and the weather allows) spend time outside, and hopefully, your neighbours will pop by to say hello. You can also start your own new traditions, like bringing baked goods around during the holidays. Who knows, you may even meet your new bestie. 

The bottom line 

Are you ready to kickstart your home buying journey? Even if you’re in talks with a mortgage provider, it never hurts to get a second opinion. If you have any questions about your mortgage or just want to make sure you’re getting a great deal, apply with Pine and a mortgage agent would be happy to answer any questions you may have.