The Ultimate Guide to Setting Up Your New Home After a Move

Congratulations, you just got the keys to your new home! It’s an exciting time full of possibilities. But before you can kick back and enjoy your new space, there’s a bit of work to do to make your new house feel just right. 

Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with essential steps, tips, and answers to common questions that’ll make the process smoother and even a bit enjoyable.

Essential Steps for Creating Your Perfect Space

Kick-off with a Clean Sweep

First things first, give your place a good clean. Not only does this ensure that your space is fresh and inviting, but it also provides you with a blank canvas to start organizing your belongings. While you’re at it, do a quick safety check—make sure those smoke detectors are working and the locks are changed.

Strategic Unpacking

Unpacking might seem daunting, but not if you tackle it with a plan. Start with the essentials—kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom. Getting these spaces sorted first will make life in your new home more comfortable right from the start.

Pro tip: Keep the essentials (toothbrush, toilet paper, bedding) in a clearly labeled box for easy access on the first night.

Organize as You Go

As you unpack, take the time to declutter and organize. Don’t just shove everything into drawers and closets to deal with later. Take this opportunity to get rid of things you no longer need or use. Use storage solutions such as bins, shelves, and dividers to keep belongings in their designated spaces.

Arranging Your Space

Time to get those furniture pieces in place. When it comes to arranging furniture, think about both aesthetics and functionality. Try different layouts to see what works best, keeping in mind how you want each room to flow. This is also the perfect opportunity to inject your personal style into the space, making it truly feel like home.

Utility Check

One of the first things you should do is ensure all utilities are up and running. From water and electricity to internet and cable, getting these services activated is essential.  Plan ahead to avoid any interruptions, and if you’re able to, transfer your utilities to your new home before you arrive. Nothing is worse than moving into a new home without air conditioning after a long day of hard work.

Your Top Unpacking Questions Answered

Moving to a new home often comes with a lot of questions on how to make the transition as smooth as possible. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions to help you navigate this exciting new chapter with confidence.

How should I prioritize rooms when setting up my new home?

Focus on where you’ll spend most of your time initially—the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom. This way, you’ll have a functional and comfortable space right away. From there, prioritize based on your personal needs and preferences. If you work from home, for example, you may want to get started setting up your new office.

What are the first things to set up in a new house?

Aside from the essentials, here are some other important things to set up in your new home:

• Change the locks on all exterior doors
• Update your address with important contacts (bank, post office, etc.)
• Install any necessary safety measures (fire extinguishers, security systems)
• Familiarize yourself with the location of emergency exits and shut-off valves
• Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

How can I make my new house feel like home quickly?

Adding personal touches like photos, artwork, and decor can instantly bring warmth and personality to your new place. Don’t hesitate to unpack those sentimental items from your previous homes to spark feelings of familiarity.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when establishing a new home?

• Not properly measuring furniture before moving it in
• Losing track of important documents throughout the move (leases, warranties, etc.)
• Not setting aside a budget for essential home items and unexpected expenses
• Overbuying and cluttering the space with unnecessary items
• Not prioritizing tasks and getting overwhelmed with too much to do

Making It Yours

Adding personal touches doesn’t have to be a big project. A few well-placed items, some greenery, and maybe a new rug or two can really transform a space. And don’t forget to celebrate this new chapter by hosting a housewarming party for your friends and family. This is the perfect opportunity to show off your new home and create lasting memories in it.

Post-Move Checklist

Ready to hit the ground running? Here’s a quick checklist to ensure you cover all your bases after moving into your new home:

• Change Address: Update your address with the post office, banks, and other important institutions.
• Change Locks: Ensure all exterior doors have new locks for security.
• Utilities Set-Up: Confirm water, electricity, gas, internet, and cable are up and running.
• Safety Measures: Install smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers.
• Unpack Essentials: Prioritize unpacking the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom first.
• Check Appliances: Test all major appliances to make sure they’re functioning properly.
• Update Insurance: Notify your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance about your new address.
• Meet Neighbors: Introduce yourself to your new neighbors to build a friendly community.

Want more tips on what to do after a move? Check out our comprehensive moving checklists for easy-to-follow guides on what to do before, during, and after a move.

Make Your New House a Home with ADSI

Setting up your new home is your chance to create a space that reflects you and your lifestyle. Take your time, enjoy the process, and before you know it, you’ll have a place you’re proud to call home.

Thinking about moving or need more tips on settling into your new home? ADSI is here with expert advice and support to make your move smooth and stress-free. Reach out for a free quote and take the first step towards a hassle-free move.

Here’s to new beginnings and creating a home that’s uniquely yours. Welcome home!