Moving in: How To Get Settled In A New City
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By: Natalie Jones (HomeownerBliss.info)
Moving into a new house is a lot of work, and when you’re settling in a different city, it can be overwhelming to get used to everything being thrown at you at once. Unpacking, getting to know the neighborhood, and setting up your home takes a lot of your time and energy, and you may end up overlooking important things, like figuring out when trash day is and where to find the emergency shut-off valve for the water. That’s why it’s crucial to stay organized during this time; not only will it help you remain calm and anxiety-free, but you’ll also be able to find everything you need and take care of important tasks without worry.
Start by making a list of all the things you know you’ll need to address in the new house. This might include adding a home security system, updating the hot water heater, or simply getting to know all the rooms so that you can make the most of your space. You should also create a list of contacts who can help you get settled in, from friends and family members to service professionals who can assist with any problems. Look online and do some research on the neighborhood as well, as this will help you discover restaurants, entertainment, and necessities such as the post office or library. Follow these tips to get started without the stress.
Make Safety a Priority
Safety in your new home should be a priority, but it comes in many forms. From ensuring that you’re the only person with working keys to getting to know the ins and outs of the electrical and plumbing, you’ll want to make addressing safety issues one of the first things you do. Find out where the breaker box is, get a professional report on any prior plumbing issues from the former owners, and make sure there are working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms all around the home. You might also have the locks changed or install a security system with keyless entry points that will give you peace of mind whether you’re home or away.
Clean It Up
Even if you bought your home brand new, there may still be construction debris, dust, fingerprints, or footprints left behind that you’ll want to address. Cleaning your new place will not only give you a chance to make it your own, but it will also help you get an idea of what the house requires as far as maintenance goes. Go through each room and clean it thoroughly before moving on; nothing brings on unintended anxiety quite like leaving a job half-done.
Get to Know the Community
It’s not always easy to get out and meet people when you’re new in town; you may be anxious about it, which can make things even more difficult. However, there are some easy ways you can break the ice. Do a little homework online before the move to find out what’s available in your new neighborhood, such as popular coffee shops, breweries, bookstores, and anywhere else you like to spend time — this will save you a little leg work after the move. Check out their websites to find out more about book clubs, running groups, and events once you’re settled in.
Get (and Stay) Organized
Staying organized before, during, and after a move is crucial if you want to keep stress to a minimum. Make lists, clean, and declutter before you pack, and make sure you have everything you need before you begin unpacking (such as cleaning supplies). Think about which rooms you need to tackle first in the new house; if you have a young child or baby, their room should be a priority in order to help reduce anxiety or confusion on their part. It’s also a good idea to set up a charging station where you can keep all your electronics sorted and full of battery life.
Make It Feel Like Home
Your new house won’t feel like yours until you can add some details and make it comfy, so think about the best ways to do that once you’ve unpacked. Keep in mind that anything you can do to stay organized — such as creating a spot to keep mail, keys, or a purse — will help you feel at home while keeping things decluttered.
Moving into a new home in a new city can be exhausting, so take care of yourself during this time. Remember to plan ahead as much as possible, especially when it comes to your finances, and do your research when preparing for hiring services like movers or contractors.
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