8 Things to Do Right After You Move

Photo by Windowworld

You’ve just moved into your new home and hopefully set up your bed (or maybe it’s a blow up mattress on the floor)! But before you get started unpacking your many labeled boxes, here is a list of 8 things to do (thanks, realtor.com) that will only benefit you in the future.

1. Take photos. If renting, this is good practice so you can document any prior damage so you can get as much of your full security deposit back when you move out. If you bought a new home, it will be good to document things in the home that may change within the first year of living there. *Most states have laws in place for newly built homes and warranties for replacement/repairs. (Mississippi has the New Home Warranty Act)

2. Check to see if any of your belongings are broken. If you hired movers, you usually have a very limited amount of time to report any damage.

3. Figure out when the trash runs each week or where to drop off your trash. Ask your landlord, neighbors or HOA this information. (City of Oxford schedule or Lafayette county schedule)

4. Change the locks. If you are purchasing a home, this is one of the most important things a homeowner can do. Who knows how many neighbors or handymen have a spare key?

5. Register your car. Did you move from one state to another? States have different requirements, but you’ll need a Mississippi car tag to be able to claim homestead exemption in the state of Mississippi.

6. Break out the drop cloth to paint. As you get more settled, painting interior walls become harder and harder. Go ahead and paint now before you get settled.

7. Check your credit report. Your credit report is usually accessed during a move, so it’s a good idea to check within 6 months of moving for fraud and/or that your new address has been added.

8. Update your voting address. Lafayette county residents register here.