{"id":74896,"date":"2025-07-23T04:00:21","date_gmt":"2025-07-23T11:00:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/?p=74896"},"modified":"2025-09-10T13:15:10","modified_gmt":"2025-09-10T20:15:10","slug":"new-house-checklist","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/new-house-checklist\/","title":{"rendered":"Checklist for Moving Into a New House: 15 Things to Do to Settle in Smoothly"},"content":{"rendered":"

You did it\u2014after the paperwork, long nights, and back-and-forth with your <\/span>real estate agent<\/span><\/a>, you finally have the keys to your new home. Before you turn your house into a home, there are a few important things to take care of first.<\/span><\/p>\n

This checklist for moving into a new house breaks down the essential tasks to tackle, when to complete them, and which must-have items will make your move-in as smooth as possible. So whether you’re unpacking in <\/span>Phoenix, AZ<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>Portland, OR<\/span><\/a>, or <\/span>Chicago, IL<\/span><\/a>, here\u2019s what to keep in mind.<\/span><\/p>\n

Moving into a new house checklist<\/span><\/h2>\n

Preparation is key so make sure you give yourself ample time to accomplish these tasks before getting settled in your new place.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
\u2713<\/span><\/td>\nTransfer utilities before closing<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\u2713<\/span><\/td>\nSchedule movers<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\u2713<\/span><\/td>\nUpdate your mailing address<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\u2713<\/span><\/td>\nSet up internet, cable, and appliances<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\u2713<\/span><\/td>\nKeep in mind the layout of your home as you buy furniture<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\u2713<\/span><\/td>\nChildproof or Pet-proof your home<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\u2713<\/span><\/td>\nLocate the circuit breaker and water valve<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\u2713<\/span><\/td>\nChange locks and invest in a home security system<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\u2713<\/span><\/td>\nDeep clean each room<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\u2713<\/span><\/td>\nPrioritize home improvement projects<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\u2713<\/span><\/td>\nStock each room with home essentials<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\u2713<\/span><\/td>\nCreate a home maintenance system<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\u2713<\/span><\/td>\nConsider an energy audit or home warranty<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\u2713<\/span><\/td>\nBuy a fire extinguisher and create an emergency plan<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\u2713<\/span><\/td>\nReview home inspection reports<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Let\u2019s take a closer look at each step.<\/span><\/p>\n

1. Transfer utilities before closing<\/span><\/h2>\n

One of the first things to do when moving into a new house<\/a> is transfer the utilities into your name. Contact each company at least two weeks before move-in, as some cities take time to process the switch. Taking care of this early means you\u2019ll have power, water, and trash service ready to go when you get the keys.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. Schedule movers\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n

Having an extra hand when it comes to moving will take the weight off your shoulders and allow you to relax. Scheduling movers from a reputable moving company<\/a> ensures your furnishings are handled with care and helps with loading items into your home. Many moving companies offer different levels of service, such as:<\/span><\/p>\n