Welcome to HandyPro of Southwest Ohio

Moving into a new house comes with its own set of challenges. Often times we get so focused on the packing and moving part, we forget about the new house and the maintenance needed until we get there. Sometimes though, it’s much easier to do some tasks before you move in. An empty house, free of furniture and kids getting in the way, makes it faster and easier to get things done. Here are 7 things we suggest doing before you move in.

1. Change the Locks

When moving into a new home, you have no idea how many people may have a key to your house. We’ve all passed out keys to friends, neighbors and relatives but how many of us actually collect them all when we move? Often times, we forget who we even gave them to. Before you move in, change the locks and install new deadbolts.

2. Clean it up

Moving is messy and what some people’s version of “clean” may not be up to your standards. Take a walk through the home and see what needs to be cleaned. Steam clean carpets, wipe out cabinets, wash windows, plumbing fixtures, counters, etc. It feels so much better moving into a nice clean space because then you know that any messes you find later are yours.

3. Give it a Fresh Coat of Paint

Is your new house crazy colors? Or a monochromatic flat white? Painting is 10 times easier when there’s nothing in the way. If you don’t have time to paint yourself or you just aren’t that skilled with a brush, HandyPro of Southwest Ohio can do it for you! Make sure you paint all the walls and ceilings and fill any cracks or holes that were missed while you’re at it.

4. Locate Your Circuit Breaker Box and Main Water Valve

There may come a time where you trip a fuse or need to shut off the water valve for an emergency or vacation and the first step to get that done is to know where they are. Labeling your fuse box is also helpful so you know what powers what. Locating your main water valve and knowing how to turn it off is useful in case of an emergency. Just locate the valve—it could be inside or outside your house—and turn the knob until It’s off. Test by turning on any faucet in the house; if no water comes out, you found the right valve.

5. Check for Plumbing Leaks

Your home inspector should do this before closing but plumbing can be pretty faulty so it never hurts to double check. Keep an eye out for dripping faucets and running toilets and check your water heater for signs of a leak.

6. Upgrade Your Closet Organizers

Often closets only come with a simple pole and shelf. Fitting your closet with an organizer that best suits your needs BEFORE you stuff everything in there, saves a ton of time.

7. Treat Your Home for Pests

This is best done before you wake up to a mountain of ants crawling all over your windowsill. Whether you prepare your new home with sprays and treatments from the local home improvement store, or call in a professional, you’ll be thanking yourself later.

As always, HandyPro of Southwest Ohio is here to help! Give us a call at (513) 714-0191 for a free estimate!