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It’s hard work to get to move-in day, and it’s well worth celebrating. Once you’ve marked the occasion use these checklists to get organized and start your new chapter on the right foot.
Setup checklist for a new home
- Let friends and family know you’ve moved.
- Plug in your new fridge and stock your kitchen with essentials. This is a great time to fill the pantry with spices, dried goods, non-perishable foods and basics like flour and rice.
- Say hello to your new neighbours. It’s good to know who you live next to, and saying hello goes a long way in establishing a friendly connection with your new neighbourhood.
- Arrange for Internet and TV.
- Officially change your mailing address. Let Canada Post know that you’ve set up shop somewhere new and make sure all your important mail gets sent to you. Change your billing address wherever applicable online, including with your bank, legal services, employer, children’s schools, and insurance providers. In some provinces, you can be fined for not updating your driver’s licence or health card within a few weeks of a move.
- Register your kids for their new school or after-school programs.
- Set up your utilities. If you haven’t already, or transfer your account to your new property.
- Look for a new doctor if necessary and get all your medical records transferred. If you’ve moved to a new neighbourhood, you might want a new family doctor closer to home.
Safety checklist for new homeowners
Make sure your new home is safe and secure.
- Replace locks and make copies of keys. This ensures you’re the only one with access to your new home.
- Check detectors and security systems. Make sure that carbon monoxide detectors, smoke detectors, and alarm systems have fresh batteries and function properly.
- Talk about safety with your family or roommates. Consider plans for unexpected natural events like floods or snowstorms, and make sure everyone understands the layout of the house in case of a fire.
- Take a walk around the property. Notice if fences need installing or repairing and if there are any signs of damage around the house.
- Take safety measures. You might want to install a security system or cameras around your new home for extra protection.
- Get set up with pet-proofing and childproofing. Make sure your kids understand safety zones and areas like pools or patios that might require parental supervision.
- Find your home’s systems. Make sure you know where the water can be shut off in case of a flood and locate the fuse box.
Cleaning tips after moving in
Before you arrange furniture or put away belongings, do a deep clean to prepare your home for a new start. Hire a professional cleaning service or roll up your sleeves to get rid of dust and grime.
- Clean high up before you clean low. Dust and wipe window sills, fans, and light fixtures. Anything that falls as you clean will get swept up when you clean the floors – this should be your last step.
- Baking soda is your best friend when it comes to stovetop grime or dirty bathtubs. Mix with hydrogen peroxide or a bit of dish soap for an easy clean.
- Sanitize the fridge with soap, warm water, or vinegar solution before you put away food.
- Replace anything that’s too worn, especially bathroom fixtures and toilet seats.
Tips for feeling at home after moving in
It’s time to enjoy your new space! The blank canvas of a new home is a chance to envision the life you want to live.
- Consider the use of each room before you unpack, and designate how each room will be used to arrange furniture and decorate in a way that suits your lifestyle.
- Notice which windows get good light to place plants or reading chairs, and set up storage systems from day one to minimize clutter.
- Start training animals right away so they know what spaces are off-limits and where they’ll be sleeping. Moves can be scary for pets, and giving them a chance to explore their new home will reduce risk of flight.
- Plan a budget for your first few months. It’s easy to spend extra money on a new home and decorations and upgrades can add up.
- Unpack essentials first. Begin unpacking boxes with essentials like toothbrushes, plates, towels, shampoo, and bedding first. If you’re eager to feel at home, getting set up with the materials you need for a good night’s sleep will give you stamina for the packing that’s ahead.
- Consider warming the house with company. A simple housewarming can help make a house feel like a home – even if it involves takeout and floor pillows.
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