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Eight Home Improvements to Take Care of Before Moving

Moving into a new home is an exciting opportunity to start fresh and create a space tailored to your needs. However, to ensure a seamless transition and guarantee your comfort from day one, certain home improvements and repairs should be tackled before the big move.

Addressing these tasks ahead of time doesn’t just minimize stress – it also makes your new house feel like home from the moment you arrive. Whether you’re moving within the same city, to a different neighborhood, or moving further away, taking care of these essential updates is often easier before the boxes and furniture arrive.

This article explores eight key home improvements to prioritize before you move in, helping you prepare for a hassle-free start to your next chapter.

1. Plan Ahead and Book Essential Services

A neat desk setup with a moving checklist, a laptop showing a relocation service

Planning ahead is the key to a smooth and stress-free move. Before you even begin packing, create a comprehensive checklist to organize your tasks. This list should include everything from addressing necessary home repairs to coordinating with service providers.

When it comes to hiring professionals like electricians, plumbers, or painters, scheduling them well in advance ensures their availability and prevents last-minute delays.

If you’re working with professional movers, consider choosing a service like Solomon & Sons Relocation Services, which offers not just moving expertise but also storage solutions. These storage options can be a game-changer, especially if your move requires some overlap.

For instance, storing your belongings temporarily while completing home upgrades allows you to work in an uncluttered space. This added flexibility ensures your home is ready before the unpacking begins, saving you time and effort later.

2. Inspect and Repair Electrical Systems

An electrician repairing an electrical panel in a bright, modern home.

Before you settle into your new home, addressing the electrical systems is a must. Faulty wiring or outdated electrical setups are more than just inconveniences—they can be safety hazards. A thorough inspection by a licensed electrician will help identify potential issues, from non-functional outlets to overloaded circuits.

If your home has an older electrical system, consider upgrading it to accommodate modern devices and appliances. This might include installing additional outlets in high-demand areas like the kitchen, home office, or living room. Updating light fixtures, adding dimmer switches, or incorporating smart home technology can also enhance both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

3. Address Plumbing Issues

A plumber examining a kitchen sink, testing water pressure.

Plumbing is another area that requires close attention before you move in. Carefully inspect the home’s plumbing system for leaks, clogs, or other signs of wear. Test faucets, showers, and toilets – are they functioning correctly? Pay attention to water pressure and drainage—low pressure or slow draining could indicate larger underlying problems.

Additionally, have your HVAC system serviced. Ensuring your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are in good condition is crucial for comfort and energy efficiency in your new home.

If the water heater is old or nearing the end of its lifespan, consider replacing it to avoid an untimely breakdown. This is particularly important if you’re moving during colder months when hot water is essential. Tackling plumbing issues early ensures you won’t face unpleasant surprises after moving day, allowing you to settle in comfortably.

4. Refresh the Walls with Paint or Wallpaper

An empty room being painted in light, neutral colors, with paint cans, brushes, and a ladder nearby.

One of the easiest ways to personalize your new home is by updating the walls. Whether you prefer to simply refresh the paint or add bold wallpaper designs, making these changes before moving in saves time and hassle. Working on an empty house allows for easier access and ensures that furniture, belongings or kids and pets won’t get in the way.

Choose colors that reflect your style while considering the overall ambiance you want to create in each room. Lighter shades can make spaces feel larger and brighter, while darker tones add coziness and warmth. For families with young children, opt for washable paints that are durable and easy to clean.

5. Deep Clean the Entire Home

A professional cleaner wiping down a sleek kitchen countertop and cleaning appliances.

Even if the previous owners or tenants left the house in good condition, a deep clean is essential before you move in. Cleaning every nook and cranny ensures your home feels fresh and eliminates any lingering dust, dirt, or odors. Your primary focus should be high-traffic areas like the kitchen and bathrooms – thoroughly clean the countertops, appliances, and fixtures.

For carpets, consider hiring a professional cleaning service to remove allergens and stains. Hardwood floors can be polished or refinished if necessary. Don’t forget less obvious areas like baseboards, light fixtures, and vents. A thorough cleaning before moving in gives you peace of mind and a fresh slate, making your new house feel truly yours.

6. Ensure Proper Insulation and HVAC Efficiency

A technician checking an HVAC system in a well-insulated attic.

A comfortable home depends on effective insulation and a reliable heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Before moving in, inspect the insulation in your attic, walls, and crawl spaces to ensure they meet current standards. Poor insulation can lead to higher energy bills and inconsistent indoor temperatures.

Have your HVAC system serviced to ensure it’s in good working order. Replace air filters, clean vents, and check the thermostat. If your system is outdated or inefficient, it might be worth upgrading to a newer model that provides better climate control and energy efficiency. By addressing these issues before moving in, you create a more comfortable living environment and reduce long-term energy costs.

7. Create Storage Solutions

A modern walk-in closet with adjustable shelving, neatly organized clothes and accessories

Adequate storage is essential for maintaining an organized and clutter-free home. Before you move in, evaluate your storage needs and take steps to improve existing spaces. This is the perfect time to add shelves, closet organizers, or built-in cabinets without the hassle of working around furniture or unpacked boxes.

In closets, consider installing adjustable shelving systems that maximize vertical space. For the garage or basement, wall-mounted storage racks and hooks can help keep tools and equipment organized. Custom storage solutions can also enhance functionality in kitchens, bathrooms, and home offices. Taking care of this before moving in ensures a smoother unpacking process and helps you maintain order from the start.

8. Prioritize Safety Measures

A locksmith installing a new lock on a front door.

Safety should always be a top priority when moving into a new home. Even when previous tenants or owners have handed over their keys, there’s a chance someone might have copies. Therefore, as a safety measure, change the locks on all exterior doors to ensure only you have access. Test smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers to ensure they’re in working order.

Inspect staircases, railings, and other structural elements for stability, especially if you have children or elderly family members. By addressing safety measures before you move in, you protect your family and create peace of mind in your new space.

Moving into a new home is the start of an exciting new chapter full of possibilities and fresh beginnings. By tackling these essential home improvements before you move, you’re not just checking items off a list; you’re setting the stage for a space that truly feels like your own.

Each repair, upgrade, and adjustment is an investment in your comfort, safety, and peace of mind. So roll up your sleeves, take charge of these tasks, and make your new house everything you’ve ever envisioned it to be, starting from day one.

Read Next: Nine Modern Home Features for Style and Functionality

Val
Val is a passionate writer & lifestyle blogger with an curiosity for all things wellness, fashion, and travel.

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