25 June . 2016
5 Things To Do Before You Move
Moving is exciting, but we know it is also work. Here are 5 tips to help make your transition a happy one.
1. Take notes during the final walk-through with your builder. Don’t be shy about asking questions. There is a lot to know, including warranty information, how to use your automatic sprinkler system too and who to contact if you’re in need of a repair. We suggest that you keep these notes nearby and create a checklist for following up with your builder. Sometimes an item may be overlooked in the walk-through, so make sure to add it to your list and reach out to your builder as soon as you can.
2. Make sure you have made arrangements for your utilities. Some utilities take longer to activate than others, so start this process sooner rather than later. These include: electric, water, garbage, cable, phone, internet and security system. If you have questions about when or how to have the electric service put in your name, check with your builder sales person.
3. If you have pets, moving can be very stressful for your four-legged family members. Be sure someone is taking care of your pets during the actual move into your new home. Friends, family or a local pet sitter - like our very own resident Kristina Kipp, can assist you and watch your pets for a few hours on move day. Some pet owners suggest taking your pets over to visit your new home prior to moving in so that they can get acquainted a bit more slowly to their new territory.
4. Introduce your family to the location of their new home’s circuit breaker box. It’s a good idea to figure out which fuses control what parts of your house and label them accordingly. This will take two people: One to stand in the room where the power is supposed to go off, the other to trip the fuses and yell, “Did that work? How about now?”
5. You’ll also want to know how to turn off your main water valve if you ever have a plumbing emergency, or if you’re going out of town. Just locate the valve — it could be inside or outside your house — you will turn the knob until it’s off. Test it by turning on any faucet in the house; no water should come out.