You’re buying a house—how exciting!

But before it’s officially yours, there are a few important things to take care of. Here’s how to make sure your home is truly move-in ready before closing day.

Before Closing: Cover These Key Steps

1. Confirm Your Upgrades
Double-check with your builder that all upgrades are included and match your contract. Document everything—it’s easier now than trying to fix it later.

2. Get a Third-Party Inspection
Hire an independent inspector to walk through the home and flag anything that’s unfinished or non-functional before closing.

3. Schedule a Pre-Occupancy Orientation
Walk through the home with your builder to:

  • Learn how to use appliances and safety features
  • Locate manuals, switches, and shutoffs
  • Check all entrances, exits, and storage
  • Create a list of touch-ups or unfinished work—and get it in writing

Pro tip: Ask about neighborhood-specific features (like trails or landscaping rules). If there’s an HOA, request an intro to the president to discuss community expectations.

Make a To-Do List: Before, During & After the Move

Breaking down your move into phases can help reduce stress—and keep the lights on when you arrive.

Before You Move

Start as early as 90 days out:

  • Research movers and start downsizing
  • Inventory safety items for kids and pets
  • Update your address with:
    • Post office
    • Utility companies
    • Internet, cable, and mobile providers
    • Subscription services and delivery apps

Get familiar with your new neighborhood:

Locate essentials like grocery stores, gyms, parks, and pharmacies. If keeping your current school or doctor, map out your new commute.

Pro tip: If possible, schedule your move before your lease ends to avoid last-minute chaos and move in at your own pace.

During the Move

Keep stress low with a little prep:

  • Pack a “moving day” backpack with:
    • New and old house keys (label them!)
    • ID, wallet, and cash for tipping movers
    • Chargers, a battery pack, and essentials
    • Scissors, labels, duct tape, and a utility knife
    • Any must-have documents or medication
    • Snacks and water—moving is hungry work
  • Pack a “first week” suitcase with:
    • Toiletries
    • Work clothes
    • Medications
    • Bedding and towels

Don’t Customize Too Quickly

New homes feel like a blank canvas, but don’t rush into big changes right away. Give yourself at least a month to live in the space and see what your daily routines actually look like.

Questions to consider:

  • Do you need a pool, or is a grill area enough for now?
  • Would extra kitchen storage be more useful than a bathroom upgrade?
  • Should the garage become a living space, or will the bonus room do?

Check HOA guidelines before starting any major exterior changes.

How Are You Making It Yours?

Once you’ve settled in and seen how you use each space, your upgrades will feel more intentional—and your house more like home.

Get a quote today: https://www.aphw.com/request-quote/.