You’ve just purchased a new home and your head is spinning with ideas. Interior design, remodeling dreams and entertaining plans are all running through your mind. But before you get ahead of yourself, you have to handle the basics. Here’s what you need to do to settle in during the first week in your new home.

1. Set Up Utilities

Before moving in, contact power, water and gas companies to establish service at your new address. The last thing you want is to unpack in a dark home. Although less urgent, you’ll also want to arrange Internet, cable and phone service within the first couple of days.

2. Update Your Address

It’s easy to change your mailing address with the U.S. Postal Service using their online form. You’ll also want to update your address with your job, your bank and insurance companies and any other businesses you correspond with. Don’t forget to send a note to family and friends informing them of your new address.

3. Change the Locks

You never know who has keys to the existing locks on your home. Take the cautious approach and change or rekey the locks upon moving in. You should also reset the garage door code and ensure all windows locks are in working order.

4. Check Smoke and CO Detectors

Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors around your new home, changing batteries as needed. If the fire extinguisher that came with the house is expired, it’s best to buy a new one for around $50. If you’re unsure of its age and can’t find a date, Keystone Fire Protection says that fire extinguishers have a shelf life of six to twelve years, depending on the type it is.

5. Unpack the Essentials

Rather than tearing into boxes at random, unpack according to priority. Start with bedrooms so everyone has a familiar place to sleep on the first night, followed by basic kitchen supplies. Linens are another item to unbox quickly. After a long day of moving, you’ll want a hot shower before heading to bed.

6. Declutter — Again

Hopefully, you downsized your stuff before relocating so you didn’t pay to move things you don’t actually want or need. Unpacking is another opportunity to think seriously about what’s worth bringing into your new house and what you’re better off letting go of. However, getting rid of stuff is hard. If you have a lot of belongings on the chopping block but you’re struggling to make a final decision, put it in a storage unit rather than storing it in your new home. You’ll reduce clutter in your new house and it will be easier to part with things once you’ve established you can definitely live without them.

7. Perform an Allergen Sweep

More than 50 million Americans have allergies, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. That means there’s a good chance you have an allergy sufferer in your family. If you do, assess your new house for potential allergy triggers. In addition to changing the air filter and inspecting for signs of mold, consider replacing carpets with a more allergy-friendly flooring option. New flooring doesn’t have to cost a lot, especially when you buy from Floors Etc. Outlet, and it makes a big difference in quality of life for allergy sufferers.

8. Add a Little Flair

When it comes to making your new home’s interior design your own, begin with the walls. A fresh coat of paint goes a long way in making sure your favorite color scheme is achieved. Wallpaper is a great option for adding some of your own flair throughout the house, too. Countless choices of color, fabric, texture, design and patterns are available when picking out wallpaper for each room, or even for dressing up an accent wall. Using pre-pasted and peel-and-stick removable wallpaper makes installation easy, efficient and quick.

Finally, take time to relax! Moving is a big endeavor and you’re probably feeling tired after packing, traveling, and setting up the new house. Rather than worrying about getting everything perfect during the first week, set up the basics then enjoy some downtime. After a couple days of taking it easy, you’ll feel re-energized and ready to execute your vision for your new home.

Buying, selling and moving is stressful! Make it easier on yourself by connecting with Schwab Realty. Their professional expertise will guide you smoothly through the process! Call 360-683-4015 to learn more about how they can help you find the home of your dreams.