For first-time buyers, the process of getting a mortgage and securing a property is all-consuming, but once you’ve got the keys and you don’t have to worry about terms like sale agreed or conveyancing anymore… What then?
Here are a few things you’ll need to do once you’ve sealed the deal on your new home.
Change the locks
Sound a bit excessive? Well it shouldn’t. The fact is, you have no idea how many copies have been made of the keys to your new home, so why not control that from the outset by installing new locks?
While you’re at it, you might need to look at the security set-up in general. If there’s an alarm system already installed, make sure it’s in full working order and change all the codes, and if there isn’t think about investing in one.
Do a safety check
This includes everything from locating the fuse box, trip switches and shut-off valves for the water and gas to coming up with an emergency plan should the unthinkable happen.
It’s also a good idea to keep a list of emergency phone numbers – electrician, plumber, local GP, etc. – somewhere easily accessible (the fridge is a tried and tested classic), so you’re not desperately hunting for information if the sinks starts to flood.
DIY before you move in
If possible, do any bits and bobs of repairs or renovations before you move all your stuff in – it’ll be so much easier if you’re not tripping over boxes or trying to keep paint and dust from getting into your belongings.
Hopefully you got a clean bill of health from the surveyor during the buying process, but if not, now’s the time to fix anything that was flagged in their report.
Get a professional deep clean
This isn’t to imply that the people who lived there before you weren’t looking after the place, but general wear and tear takes its toll. You can always do this yourself, but a professional cleaning company will be able to do it in half the time, and already know what to look out for.
Meet the neighbours
One of the big criticisms of city living is that we’re all isolated from each other – but you don’t need to be!
Forging friendships with your new neighbours, or at least being on friendly terms with them, can really make a difference to your life, so don’t be afraid to say hi, have them over for tea or even invite them to your housewarming. It never hurts to be friendly, and you never know, they might be your new besties.
Make the place your own
Furnishing your home for the next however many years you’ll end up living there can be hugely satisfying, but also pretty expensive. Furniture, TV, curtains… It all adds up!
Our advice is to shop around and also look into Bank of Ireland’s Cashback Plus Mortgage , where you can get up to 2% of your new mortgage as cash up front. That’ll go a long way towards kitting out your new place!
