What To Do First After You Move Into Your New Bronx Home

When it comes to deciding what to do first after you move into your new Bronx home, it can feel overwhelming, given the number of tasks vying for your attention. Moving home is a significant event, laden with a mix of emotions – excitement for the new chapter, nostalgia for the old, and a touch of anxiety over the tasks that lie ahead.

Navigating through this maze becomes easier with a well-structured plan. From unpacking the right boxes to familiarizing yourself with your new neighborhood, there’s plenty to consider. New York Local Movers (NYLM), a top-rated Manhattan Moving company, aims to help you transition smoothly into your new Bronx home.

In this blog post, we will share practical advice and step-by-step guidance on how to get settled quickly and efficiently. Welcome to your new beginning in the Bronx!

Moving Into Your New Bronx Home: What Steps to Follow?

Congratulations on your new Bronx home! As exciting as it is, the first few days or weeks after moving in can feel overwhelming with all the tasks that need to be done. To help make this process easier, we’ve outlined some crucial steps to follow in your first weeks as a new homeowner. From conducting a walkthrough to meeting your neighbors, these suggestions will ensure you feel settled in no time.

1. Conduct a Complete Walkthrough

Get Familiar with Your New Space

Before anything else, get to know every corner of your new home. Take note of the unique features, areas that need immediate attention, and spaces you can’t wait to transform into your cozy corners. This is also a great opportunity to verify if the previous owner has completed any agreed-upon repairs.

Ensure Everything from the Sale is Present

As you walk through your new home, make sure that all items included in the sale are present. These might include appliances, furniture, or other fixtures. Should anything be missing or out of place, get in touch with your realtor immediately.

Check Every Corner for Proper Functioning

You don’t want any unpleasant surprises after moving in. So, turn on all the switches, test the outlets, open and close all doors and windows, and inspect all fixtures.

Review Warranties and Maintenance Guides

If the previous owner left behind warranties and maintenance guides for appliances and systems, review them carefully. This information will be valuable for future maintenance and repair needs.

2. Child/Pet Proof Your Home

Ensure Safety for Children and Pets

If you have kids or pets, your home should be a safe space for them. Start by creating a separate zone for discarded packing materials, gating off unsafe areas, and covering up electrical outlets.

Review Window Safety

Check all the windows to ensure they’re securely closed and don’t have any long hanging cords coming off of the blinds. These cords could pose a strangulation risk for curious kids and pets.

Organize Boxes and Fragile Items

Packed boxes can be quite intriguing for young children and pets. Spread out boxes instead of stacking them up high to prevent any accidents. Stash away breakables, sharp objects, and alcohol in high cabinets for now.

Secure Kitchen Appliances

Kitchens hold various hazards for young kids and pets. To prevent mishaps, tamper-proof the knobs on your stove with knob protectors and install cabinet locks on any lower cabinets containing dangerous items such as cleaning supplies. Also, keep small appliances with electrical cords out of reach.

3. Decide What Goes Where

Before you start unpacking, have a plan in mind for where you want your furniture and other belongings to go. Having a plan will not only save you time but also prevent unnecessary movement of heavy items.

4. Set Up Your Utilities

Once you’ve entered your new home, contact your utility company to make sure your electric, gas, water, heating and cooling, phone, and even your air conditioning systems are up and running. Also, call your local waste management facility to set up garbage pickup.

5. Locate Essential Home Components

Find the Fuse Box

Identify where your fuse box is located so you can easily find it when you need it. Typically, you’ll find it in the basement, garage, or storage room.

Locate the Water Valve

Knowing where your home’s water valve is located can save you a lot of trouble in an emergency. Usually, it’s somewhere around the exterior perimeter of your house.

6. Conduct a Deep Cleaning Session

Start Cleaning from the Top

Begin your cleaning process from the ceiling and work your way down. This way, any dust or dirt that falls while cleaning won’t land on an already cleaned surface.

Clean Your Fridge First

Your fridge is essential for storing perishable food. Start by sanitizing it. Remove the shelves and drawers, if possible, and clean them individually with soap and warm water, just as you would with your bathroom supplies.

Focus on the Rest of the Kitchen

After your fridge, clean the rest of the kitchen. From lighting fixtures and appliances to countertops and cabinets, ensure everything is sparkling clean before you start using it.

Tidy Up the Bathrooms

In bathrooms, cleaning is as much about disinfecting as it is about making surfaces spotless. Once you’ve scrubbed down the surfaces, use an antibacterial spray to get rid of lingering germs.

Tackle the Rest of the House

Finally, tackle the rest of your house. This involves cleaning door tops, windows, window treatments, light switches, and closet interiors. The last step should be cleaning the floors, ensuring a clean, welcoming space for you to start your new life.

7. Prioritize Repairs

Chances are, there will be some repair work to be done. While these don’t necessarily need to be addressed right away, make a list of what needs to be done and in what order.

8. Change the Locks

Securing Your New Home

After moving into your new Bronx home, it is crucial to prioritize your safety and that of your loved ones. Once your real estate agent hands over the keys, one of the first things you should do, often overlooked by many, is change the locks. It’s also a good time to double-check your homeowner’s insurance. It might seem unnecessary or even paranoid, but you can never be too cautious when it comes to security.

It is impossible to know how many keys the previous owner might have given out or if any keys were lost over the years. With a simple process, you can rekey all the locks and give yourself peace of mind, knowing that you and only you have control over who can enter your home.

Engaging a Locksmith

Hiring a professional locksmith can save you the hassle of changing locks and ensuring that it is done correctly. A competent locksmith will not only change your locks but also assess your overall home security and provide necessary recommendations. This could include updating your window locks, installing a security system, or adding deadbolt locks to your doors for added protection.

Do It Yourself

If you have a knack for DIY tasks, changing locks can be an engaging project. There are plenty of tutorials online to guide you through the process. Keep in mind that you will need some basic tools and the new locksets. However, remember that it’s essential to do it right, as any errors could compromise your home’s security. If you’re unsure, it’s always safer to hire a professional.

9. Update Your Address

Changing Your Address Officially

After you’ve settled in and changed your locks, the next step is to visit the post office and update your new address. In the chaos of moving, this step often gets overlooked or delayed, but it is an essential part of the moving process.

Begin by officially forwarding mail through the United States Postal Service to your new address. This can typically be done online and ensures that your mail will be forwarded to your new Bronx home.

Informing Necessary Parties

Once you’ve informed the post office of your new address, don’t forget to also update your credit card company and insurance company. Make sure to update your address with your bank, credit card companies, insurance providers, and any subscription services you may use.

This might seem tedious, but it’s crucial to ensure that your sensitive information doesn’t end up in the wrong hands. Not only does this protect your personal information, but it also helps prevent service disruptions or late fees due to missed bill payments.

State Documentation

If your move to the Bronx included crossing state lines into New York, it’s essential to inform the state’s DMV of your move-in date and update your driver’s license and vehicle registration with your new Bronx address. The New York DMV has clear guidelines and online services to assist you in this process.

10. Meet Your New Neighbors

Taking the First Step

A fundamental aspect of settling into your new space is becoming acquainted with your new community, possibly even through a homeowner’s association. Meeting your new neighbors might seem a bit intimidating, but you’ll find that most people are open and welcoming to newcomers. A simple smile and a friendly greeting can go a long way in setting the tone for your new neighborly relationships.

Local Involvement

One of the most effective ways to get to know your neighbors and the Bronx community at large is to get involved. Look out for local events, join neighborhood associations, or volunteer for community projects. This active participation allows you to establish connections with like-minded individuals and gives you a sense of belonging in your new neighborhood.

Hosting a Get-together

After all your boxes are unpacked and you’ve settled in, consider hosting a casual gathering to meet new friends, welcome your new neighbors, and foster relationships. It doesn’t need to be anything elaborate—a simple afternoon BBQ or an open house tour can do the trick.

Hand-delivering invitations to your immediate neighbors not only serves as a formal invitation to your event but also provides an excellent opportunity to introduce yourself.

Moving into your new space, especially with the entire house to set up and possibly having had to deal with previous owners, comes with a plethora of tasks that can feel overwhelming. By prioritizing and methodically tackling each task, you can quickly turn your new house into a home.

Always remember that it’s okay to ask for help, whether it’s from friends, family, or professional services. In no time, you’ll find yourself comfortably settled and ready to start creating memories in your new Bronx home.

Read More: Pre-move Planning in the Bronx: A Comprehensive Guide

Long-term Unpacking and Settling in

Unpacking and settling into your new Bronx home involves much more than just getting your boxes into the house. It’s about organizing your space, making it comfortable, and finally turning it into a place that feels like home. Let’s delve into some detailed strategies to make this process smoother.

1. Plan Your Space

The first step in the long-term unpacking process of all your boxes involves planning your new space. Moving to a new home presents a unique opportunity to reassess your lifestyle, your needs, and how your living space can cater to these.

• Outline Your Living Needs: Start by identifying your essential living needs and how you envision each room serving those needs. For instance, you might require a quiet room for a home office or a spacious living room for hosting events. These specific needs will guide you in deciding which items go into each room.
• Sketch a Floor Plan: Based on your needs, create a rough sketch of how you want to arrange your furniture and belongings in each room. This plan doesn’t need to be architectural; a simple drawing indicating where you want your larger pieces of furniture can suffice. Remember, this sketch can be adjusted as you unpack and find what works best.
• Prioritize Accessibility: When planning your space, consider how frequently you use each item. Items used daily should be easily accessible, while those used infrequently can be stored in closets, basements, or attics.

2. Unpack Strategically

Unpacking strategically can make a world of difference in your settling-in process. It not only ensures you unpack everything more quickly but also guarantees you do it efficiently.

• Start with Essentials: Begin by unpacking the essentials box you prepared before the move. This box should include items like toiletries, a change of clothes, basic kitchen supplies, and anything else you’ll need in the first few days at your new place.
• Room-by-room Approach: After the essentials, start unpacking room by room, based on your floor plan. This strategy not only breaks down the daunting task of unpacking into smaller manageable tasks but also provides you with the satisfaction of seeing completed rooms, one at a time.
• Kitchen First: The kitchen is a good place to start. Once it’s set up, you’ll be able to cook meals, which can make the place start feeling like home. It will also save you money on takeout meals.
• Decor Last: Leave decorative items until last. You’ll likely move things around as you settle in, and unpacking decor first could lead to unnecessary rework.

3. Organize as You Unpack

While unpacking, take the time to organize your belongings. It’s easier to find permanent spots for everything as you go rather than going back and doing it later.

• Utilize Storage Solutions: Consider using storage solutions like shelves, baskets, and organizers. These tools can help you keep everything tidy and ensure every item has a home.
• De-clutter: Use this opportunity to de-clutter. If you find items that you no longer need or love, consider donating, selling, or discarding them.
• Label: If you’re storing items in boxes or bins, especially in places like the attic or basement, make sure to label them. It will save you from having to rummage through boxes the next time you need something.

4. Create Comfort Zones

Your new Bronx home should not only be functional but also comfortable. Establish areas in your home where you can relax and unwind.

• Furniture Placement: Position your furniture in a way that encourages comfort. This could mean placing a cozy armchair near a window for reading or setting up a game area in the living room.
• Personalize: Decorate your home with items that make you feel comfortable and happy. This could include photos, artwork, or even certain color palettes.
• Outdoor Spaces: Don’t forget about your outdoor spaces. If you have a yard or a patio, consider setting up a comfortable seating area to enjoy the nice weather.

5. Adapt and Adjust

Remember that settling into a new home takes time. Don’t worry if things don’t feel quite right at first. Be open to making adjustments as you live in the space.

• Expect Change: Understand that the initial arrangement of furniture and belongings might not work out as you thought. You’ll discover new things about your home as you live in it, like the fact that the afternoon sun might make the living room too hot, necessitating a change in your seating arrangement.
• Feedback: Get feedback from other members of your household. They might have great suggestions that you hadn’t thought of.
• Patience: Be patient with yourself and the process. Settling into a new home, especially if it’s in a new city or state, is a big adjustment and can take time.

Remember, your home is a reflection of you. Take your time, listen to your instincts, and create a space that not only meets your needs but also feels welcoming and uniquely yours. Unpacking and settling into your new home in the Bronx can be a daunting task, but with a plan, some patience, and a touch of creativity, you can make your new house feel like home.

Why You Need to Choose New York Local Movers (NYLM) Services?

Choosing the right moving service is key to ensuring a smooth and efficient relocation. At New York Local Movers (NYLM), we pride ourselves on our comprehensive and customer-oriented moving services.

Professional Moving Services

We offer a range of professional moving services designed to address the unique needs of each customer. We understand that every move is different, and our team of experienced movers is equipped to handle any challenge that comes our way.

• Local Moving: If you’re relocating within the New York area, our team can ensure your move is quick and hassle-free. We know the city like the back of our hand and can navigate the hectic NYC streets with ease, saving you time and stress.
• Long-Distance Moving: Even if you’re moving out of state, NYLM has got you covered. We provide efficient and reliable long-distance moving services, ensuring your belongings reach your new home safely.
• Packing Services: If packing up your entire home seems daunting, let our professionals handle it. We provide full packing services, using high-quality packing materials to ensure the utmost protection of your belongings.
• Storage Solutions: In case you need to store some of your belongings during the moving process, we offer secure and climate-controlled storage solutions. We can store your items for as long as you need, providing you with peace of mind.

Dedicated Customer Service

At NYLM, we put our customers first. We know how stressful moving can be, and our aim is to make your move as easy and seamless as possible.

• Personalized Moving Plan: We work with you to create a personalized moving plan that caters to your specific needs and schedule.
• Transparent Pricing: We provide transparent pricing with no hidden charges. We believe in honesty and integrity in all our dealings.
• Trained and Certified Movers: Our team is made up of trained and certified movers who are dedicated to providing top-notch service. They handle your belongings with care and respect, ensuring everything arrives at your new home in the same condition it left your old one.

Conclusion

Moving to a new home in the Bronx, or anywhere else, can be an exciting but challenging process. With proper planning, organization, and the right moving company by your side, you can make this transition smoother and less stressful. At New York Local Movers (NYLM), we’re committed to providing our customers with reliable and professional moving services.

So why wait? Get in touch with us today, and let’s make your move a breeze.

FAQs

What should I do before the movers arrive?

Before the movers arrive, you should have everything packed and ready to go unless you’ve hired packing services. You should also disassemble any large furniture if this service isn’t included in your moving package.

Can NYLM move large or specialty items, like pianos or artwork?

Yes, at NYLM, we have the skills and equipment necessary to safely move large or specialty items. Let us know in advance so we can plan accordingly.

Do I need to be present during the move?

While it’s not necessary for you to be present during the entire move, we do recommend you be there at the beginning and end to oversee the process.

How far in advance should I schedule my move with NYLM?

The sooner you can book your move, the better. We recommend scheduling your move at least a month in advance, especially if you plan on moving during the busy summer months.

Does NYLM offer packing materials?

Yes, we provide high-quality packing materials as part of our packing services. If you choose to pack your belongings yourself, we can supply you with the necessary materials.