National Homeownership Month: 7 Smart Tips for Settling into Your New Home
National Homeownership Month: What to Do After Moving into a House
June is National Homeownership Month, a time to celebrate the milestone of owning your own home. If you're a first-time buyer wondering what to do after moving into a house, this guide will help you get started with smart, stress-reducing steps to make your new space feel like home.
Here are some essential new homeowner tips to get you on the right track.
1. Set Up Utilities and Services
Before move-in day, make sure your home has all the essentials running. That includes:
- Electricity, gas, and water
- Internet and cable
- Trash and recycling pickup
Contact providers ahead of time to schedule installation dates or transfer service. Don’t forget to update your billing address and set up auto-pay to avoid missed payments.
2. Change the Locks and Check Security Features
Safety should always come first. Once you have the keys:
- Replace exterior door locks or have them rekeyed
- Update garage door codes and keypads
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Get familiar with your security system or install one
Even if you trust the previous owners, you never know how many spare keys may be floating around.
3. Do a Walkthrough and Plan for Maintenance
Before you start unpacking, take time to get to know your home:
- Locate your main water shut-off valve and circuit breaker
- Check for leaks, cracks, or anything that needs repair
- Replace HVAC filters and inspect attic or crawl space insulation
- Make a list of seasonal maintenance tasks and put reminders in your calendar
Knowing how your home works will save you stress (and money) down the line.
4. Unpack the Essentials First
Instead of opening every box at once, focus on setting up the most-used rooms first:
- Bedroom so you can sleep comfortably
- Bathroom for hygiene and daily routines
- Kitchen so you can start preparing meals
Labeling boxes clearly by room and importance during your move will make this process easier.
5. Organize Key Storage Areas
Before clutter has a chance to pile up, organize common hotspots:
- Closets: Use shelving, bins, and labels
- Garage or shed: Hang tools and store items vertically
- Pantry: Group items by category and use clear containers if possible
A little organization early on makes future decluttering easier.
6. Meet the Neighbors and Explore the Area
Take time to introduce yourself to your new neighbors. It helps build a sense of community and may even lead to recommendations for local services like plumbers, landscapers, or handymen. Take a walk or drive around to locate:
- Grocery stores and pharmacies
- Local parks, trails, or community centers
- Restaurants or coffee shops you'll want to try
7. Personalize One Project at a Time
You don't have to rush into renovations, but small updates can help make the space feel like yours:
- Add a welcome mat and hang some art
- Swap out cabinet hardware or light fixtures
- Start a garden or decorate the porch
Focus on one room or project at a time so you don’t get overwhelmed.
Final Thought: Celebrate the Moment
Becoming a homeowner is a major life event. Whether you're unpacking boxes or planning your housewarming party, take a moment to appreciate how far you've come.
Need Help After the Move?
From leftover boxes to furniture that didn’t quite fit, College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving can help you clear out the clutter. We offer junk removal, donation pickups, and hourly labor services to make your move-in easier.
Trust the HUNKS to help you settle in with confidence.