If you recently completed the process of buying a home, congratulations! Now it’s time to prepare it for your arrival. Top Realtor® Justyna Johnson – Edina Realty in Woodbury, MN, wants to help you make the most of your new home. Explore her most recommended tasks after you get the keys. 

A Top Realtor’s To-Do List After Buying a Home 

1. Change the Locks 

After you close on your house, duplicate copies of your keys may be available. Be safe and install different locks soon after buying a home. A wide variety of manual and automated sets are both easy to use and affordable. 

2. Deep Clean Your Home 

The best new home is a clean one. Real estate agents recommend using a professional maid service before moving in. Some families also like to steam clean their carpets before they bring in their furniture. If you do it yourself, thoroughly wash the kitchen, bathrooms, cabinets, and appliances.

3. Change Your Toilet Seats 

While you clean your home, change your toilet seats. It will allow you to wash beneath the seat hinges and instantly update the look of the bathroom. No matter how new or beautiful the house is, a fresh set of fixtures is best for your family. 

4. Locate Your Shut-Offs 

Every homeowner should locate their shut-off valves to prevent an emergency. Take note of the location of the main water valve, breaker box, and gas shut off. If you close on your house in the winter, check if your outdoor faucets are winterized. 

5. Replace the Filters

Most new homeowners do not know the last time their HVAC filters were changed. Swap them out upon arrival to ensure your new home is energy-efficient. If you are not sure about which brand to purchase, make note of the type of system you have and consult with a home improvement professional. 

6. Meet the Neighbors 

Once your list is complete, it is time to meet your new neighbors. While greeting your fellow community members is polite and friendly, it is also a great way to find out more about your neighborhood. Whether you are curious about the best local parks or when the mailman arrives, your neighbors are an excellent source of information. 

7. Have a Celebration 

Schedule a housewarming party to celebrate with your loved ones. While you may be tempted to hold one the week you move in, it is best to wait a couple of months. This will give you time to unpack, decorate, and plan for entertainment or catering. 

It is also a good time to test your smoke detectors, create a family emergency plan, and add non-emergency numbers to your smartphone. If you are inspired by this list and want to explore selling or buying a home with a top realtor, call Justyna Johnson – Edina Realty in Woodbury, MN, at (651) 501-2345. You can also text HOME to the same number for your accurate, free online property report. Browse homes for sale by visiting her website.