8 Projects New Homeowners Should Tackle ASAP

While moving into a new home most homeowners are eager to rush in and unpack.  Getting every item in the perfect place to invite friends and family to show off the new house is a priority.  

However, there are a few projects that should be completed before a single box has been open.  Home improvements are easier when the house is empty.  

With that in mind, homeowners will want to tackle these eight projects after moving in so as to make life easier down the road.

Who Can Get In?

Something few new homeowners remember is to change out their locks.  It is not about distrusting the previous owner or the real estate agent.  Keys get lost, people may make copies, and there is no telling who has the key for the door.  Simply take the time to change out the locks and get all new keys to avoid any unwelcome visitors.

Alarms

Most people check if there is a fire alarm or a carbon monoxide alarm in the house before moving in.  However, do not forget to make sure the batteries work.  

It is best to simply put in new batteries. It will be easy to remember to replace them later.  Putting this task off and being unprotected in a case of emergency is not worth the risk.

It’s Drafty in Here

Just because a house passes inspection does not mean there are not small projects to take on.  Caulking is something new homeowners often overlook, especially, if it means caulking doors and windows. 

Look around windows, doors, bathtubs, and any other areas where there may be gaps to fill.  Caulking these areas will reduce the amount of heat being let out and can save the homeowner in overall utility costs.

Too Many Holes in the Walls

Most homeowners fill in the holes on the walls before selling their home.  However, they may have forgotten the ones left by the décor that still hung during the showing.  

Take the time to spackle each hole and paint over the repair.  Use any leftover paint from the previous homeowner if they left it or simply take a section of paint from the wall to a local hardware store to get a color match.

Figure Out Storage

Do not get all of the boxes unpacked and realize there is nowhere for items to go.  Consider storage before taking everything out.  

Great areas to add extra storage may be in the mudroom, close to the front or back door, and the garage if it is large enough.  Storing seasonal items is much easier with storage already installed and ready to go.

Getting Ready for Children

For those moving with children, it is important to consider childproofing.  The old home probably had everything in place and this new home may not have had any children for many years.  Always install safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs. The gates that need to be mounted are safer than the gates held in place by tension. 

Think about the way the blinds are controlled, as well.  Many children are hurt when they play with the blind cords that hang down.  Some become tangled in these cords and could even be strangled by them. Keep the cords up and out of the way by using a hook that has been mounted on the wall.

Grime-Filled Carpets

If the previous owners did not care for their carpets it may be best to rip them out.  If they do look like they can be saved it is a good idea to get an industrial carpet-cleaner to get all of the old dirt out.  Renting one from a hardware store is relatively cheap compared to purchasing one. Do not simply vacuum the carpets – this is leaving a lot of mess behind.

Peek Underneath

A gem may be hiding under that carpet or rug.  Hardwood floors quickly become scratched and lackluster.  Using a cleaner that specializes in hardwood floors will help to get any dirt off and leave the floors shining like new.