Are you looking to buy a house and start the next chapter of your life? If you are, you’re not alone. 

Despite living through a global pandemic, Americans bought a total of 5.64 million homes last year. As vaccination rates increase and the country slowly returns to normal, experts expect those numbers to climb even higher.

However, moving requires you to do more than shop around for a house. Once you land on your new digs, you still have many other tasks you need to do.

Wondering what those are?

Read on to learn about five things all new homeowners need to do. 

1. Figure Out Utilities 

Before you begin living in your new home, you want to ensure that it has all the necessary utilities. These include water, gas, and electricity, as well as amenities like internet.

While most utility companies should be able to transfer service to your new home without a problem, it’s still worth contacting them well in advance of your move-in date. 

2. Update Your Address

Many people don’t realize how much their address connects with the rest of their life. Before you start living in your new home, make sure to update your address to all the relevant parties.

From banks and credit card companies to the DMV, spend some time making sure that the whole world (or at least the relevant people) know about your move. 

3. Test Your New Home’s Systems

Once you start living in your new home, you’re going to want to ensure that everything functions as it does. Make a point to investigate smoke detectors, the HVAC system, and any other system that your home uses.

If there’s a problem, you want to figure it out as soon as possible. 

4. Change Your Locks

While some sellers may do this for you, it’s always a good idea to change your locks once you move into a new place. You never know who has a copy of the key.

Hiring a locksmith is cheap, easy, and gives you peace of mind. 

5. Create a Maintenace Plan

Make sure to create a maintenance checklist that you revisit every few months. That’ll help ensure that if something breaks down, you’ll be able to fix it as soon as possible. 

When making your maintenance plan, it’s important to remember exactly when you move. If you moved in 2019, check out some of the moving industry statistics from that year. 

Embrace the Best Parts of Being New Homeowners

Buying a home and moving are two stressful processes that nobody enjoys going through. That said, nothing matches the excitement that new homeowners feel once they finally get to their new space. 

Use this guide to help make buying a house and moving as stress-free of a process as possible. Power through the logistical tasks, and you’ll be making the most of your new home in no time! 

Are you looking for more home buying guides and tips? If you are, make sure to check out the rest of our site for more great content.