Buying a new home is exciting, but there is a lot to accomplish in the beginning. If you're just bought a new home, here are the first steps to take before getting settled.
Change the locks
The former homeowner might assure your realtor that they've surrendered all the keys to the house, but what if they forgot about their second cousin who visits every other year? The last thing you want in a new home is to feel vulnerable to strangers. As soon as you close escrow, call a professional to come to change the locks. Have him or she make a few copies of the key so you can give it to your family members and have a spare, just in case. You'll have peace of mind that no one can come into your home uninvited, and you'll have a key for each person who needs one. Don't forget to change the garage door code while you're at it.
Buy a home warranty plan
A great home warranty company will provide a variety of services to give you peace of mind. Unlike Choice Home Warranty, AFC Home Club protects you in several ways. With your plan, you'll have protection for all household appliances like your fridge and dishwasher, and systems like your water heater and AC. When something breaks in the home, you can call AFC and let them know which technician you'd like to come to fix it. Your plan comes with free credit monitoring and discounts on other excellent services, like home security and even restaurants. All repairs are guaranteed for the life of the plan, unlike with other companies, and AFC's amazing customer service team is always ready to work with you. A home warranty will give you more daily coverage than a home insurance plan, so it's a must for anyone who wants easy and convenient assistance.
Install solar panels
Before you start paying outrageous heating bills, consider solar panels in Arizona. Solar energy is renewable and abundant, making solar panels the right choice for anyone who cares about the environment. After an initial investment, you'll notice a huge decrease in your energy bills. Saving the planet and saving money go hand in hand with this change. The utility company will even buy back excess energy that you don't need. You'll increase your property's value and reduce your carbon footprint. Get this done right away after moving in. You won't regret it.
Make repairs
Do you remember the very long and thorough inspection report you received? Now is the perfect time to tackle a few of those to-do items. Start by addressing any safety concerns that weren't handled by the previous homeowners. Then handle any items that could become broken down the line. This might mean replacing your water heater now instead of later, or paving the driveway before it's washed out. Clean out your gutters and fix any broken windows. Use your inspection report as a to-do list and check off as many items as you can during those first few weeks.
Create a maintenance checklist
There are plenty of tasks you'll need to accomplish throughout the year. When you move in, create a checklist of what you'll do in each space and when. If you need to clean your pool every spring, add that to the list. Include testing the fire alarms and changing the air filter. Whatever you'll need to do each year to keep your house running, put it on the checklist along with when you will accomplish each task. Keeping yourself organized could save you a tremendous amount of trouble later.
A properly maintained and organized home will stay in great condition for years to come. Do what you can to keep yourself and your life in shape.
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