You’ve closed on your new home and you’re all moved in. I know you’d like to take a break but there are 3 things you should consider doing right away.
Change the locks on your exterior doors. I am a very optimistic and trusting person, however, there is no way for you to know how many friends, neighbors and other strangers may have a key to your new home. Especially if the previous owner lived there for a long time. Safety First!
Here’s a link to an article on how to change door knobs and dead bolts.
Find the shut-offs for all your utilities and fixtures.Make sure you and everyone in your home knows where the shut-offs are located and how to operate them.
- Main water shut-off
- Main electrical shut-off
- Main gas shut-off
- Gas supply shut-off valves for water heater, furnace, gas fireplaces and any other gas appliance
- Water shut-off valves for all sinks and toilets.
Start saving for home maintenance. I know you feel like you’ve spent every last dime you have to get into this house but you will be happy in the future if you set aside 1% of the cost of your home each year to use towards home maintenance costs. If you’re home is more than 20 years old, make it 2%. If you’re wondering how much things will cost like replacing a water heater, use this handy reference tool.