1. Tell Everyone Your New Address.

Of course, people want to tell all of their friends and family when they just bought a

home, especially first-time homebuyers. Make sure you also contact all of your

creditors and all other companies you receive mail from to update your address. You

should also submit a change of address form to the post office so that all your mail

will get forwarded to your new address.

 

2. Get a Professional Deep Clean.

While many homes may look pretty clean, you can’t really be sure just by looking. It’s

a good idea to get a professional cleaning service to do a deep cleaning before you

start moving your stuff in. It’s much easier and cheaper for cleaning to be done.

 

3. Change the Locks and Reprogram Your Garage Doors.

Unless you’re buying a brand-new home from a builder, you need to have the locks

changed. You don’t know who all has a key to your home, and that can be scary. Get

your garage doors reprogrammed so they only work with the remotes you have. It’s

possible someone out there got their hands on an extra garage remote at some

point.

 

4. Set Up Utilities, Cable and Internet.

If you haven’t already, set up your cable and internet to transfer to your new home.

Another option to consider is “cutting the cord”… No, this doesn’t mean living without

WiFi or TV! FreeTVee, a local company, can help you cut your cable costs and utilize

streaming for your needs (www.freetvee.com). You will also need to contact the

local water, electric and gas companies to have services turned on or transferred to

your name.

 

5. Set Up Your Home Security System.

Most homes these days come with a security system installed. However, it will not

be active when you move in. You’ll need to contact a home security company to

come out and get you set up.

 

6. Meet Your Neighbors.

It’s always good to get out and meet your neighbors. See who has kids your age, get

inside information on the “hood” and make some friends. Your neighbors can also

recommend great local services. They have lots of information on your new

community and can also be a friendly extra set of eyes to on your house when you

are away! Bonus!

 

7. Window Treatments.

More than likely your home did not come equipped with window treatments. For your

privacy and to keep your neighbors from seeing something they shouldn’t, we

suggest contacting an interior designer or blinds company to help you cover your

windows in style.

 

8. Understand How the North Carolina Climate Can Impact Your Yard. 

If you are new to North Carolina, we have hot, humid summers and mild winters—plays a

major role in yard care. Shifting weather patterns, from heavy rains to dry spells and

temperature swings, can influence plant health, soil quality, and overall maintenance

routines. Visit NC Cooperative Extension-Brunswick County Center- 910-253-2610

 

9. Make Your House Feel Like a HOME.

This is your chance to create the space that personifies you! Bright, white kitchen?

Cool slate showers? A custom barn door? What have you recently seen on Pinterest

or Fixer Upper reruns that gets your blood pumping? Making a house your home is

gratifying and fun! We recommend Brian at James Brian Company, LLC. You can reach him at 910-508-8563. Website - jamesbrianco.com

 

10. Capitalize on the “North Carolina” Lifestyle. 

Life here is warm, welcoming, and full of charm. From beach days and backyard BBQs to college basketball, porch sitting, and local festivals, it’s a place where families thrive and every day feels a little more relaxed.

To explore all that North Carolina has to offer, visit VisitNC.com—your go-to guide for events, attractions, outdoor adventures, and hidden gems across the state.