M/I Homes – Dallas: 5-Time Builder of the Year
Owning a home is no easy task, especially if you are a first-time homeowner or have just gone from renting to owning. Navigating this huge responsibility can be overwhelming at times, but we have some tips to help you keep your home beautiful and functioning properly!
Register Your Appliances
One good thing to start out with when you move into a new home with new appliances is to register them though the manufacturer. This gives them an easy way to contact you in case there happens to be a recall or if you need a repair under warranty.
This first step should leave you feeling accomplished after moving in and can save you plenty of stress in the long run!
Paint Your Walls
If you plan on changing up any of your wall colors, its best to get this out of the way early so you don’t have to worry about moving and protecting your furniture and rugs from paint stains.
Grab a brush and find the perfect combination of paint colors and have fun with it! Don’t forget the painter’s tape, and make sure you select the right paint finish depending on the room.
Hang Your Pictures
As tedious as this can be, we find that doing this early on in your move-in will save you so much time in the future.
Hanging your pictures as soon as you can introduces so much life to your walls and will bring in comfort and warmth to your new home.
Plant Privacy Trees Along Your Back Property Line
Hoping to have a little more privacy in your yard? Don’t wait until years after you move in to plant privacy trees. Remember: they need time to grow!
Planting low-maintenance trees along your back fence line as early as you can will give the trees time to flourish and provide you with the intimate backyard of your dreams.
Introduce Yourself to Your New Neighbors
Beyond just asking for a cup of sugar, meeting your neighbors and exchanging contact information is not only great for the peace of mind of having a trusted peer nearby, but it is also a wonderful way to make friends!
Plan the perfect housewarming party to invite your new neighbors over and establish what could be wonderful friendships for years to come.
Get Organized
The earlier the better! Creating systems and having a place for everything from the get-go is essential to keeping a tidy house. We love The Home Edit for inspiration on organization in every room of the house.
Change Your Mailing Address and Update Your Driver License
If you are thinking you want to avoid a trip to the DMV at all costs, you are not alone! The good news is you can update both your mailing address and your driver license address right from your computer.
To change your mailing address, fill out this form on USPS’ website. Most states have their own version of an online renewal process and can be found on your state’s Department of Public Safety page. Check your states DPS page for instructions!
Child/Pet Proof Your New Home
If you have or are planning to have either a child or four-legged friend living with you, it is best to take precautions early on to prevent any possible injury to babies or pets. Read up on some quick tips to child and pet proof your new home.
Plant a Garden in Your Backyard
Planting a garden is a great way to both create a hobby and create memories in your new home.
Imagine picking fresh fruits/vegetables or herbs from your garden and making a home-cooked meal with ingredients right from your backyard!
It is best to confirm with your HOA (if applicable) before planting one. Get some great beginner gardening guidance for planting flowers and vegetables in your area.
Get Connected in Your New Community
There are so many ways to get connected and plugged into the community around you. Not only will this help you get accustomed to your new area, you’ll also be able to meet lots of people in your hometown!
Join the HOA, be a part of a recreational sport team, start a moms/dads group, host a dinner, etc. There are so many ways to get out and meet new people and make a home out of your new area.
For more new home tips, get all the info you need for homeownership 101 and find out what you need to do and buy to be prepared and confident in being a new homeowner.
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