Moving into a new home is exciting, but before you unpack your belongings, it’s worth tackling a few projects that are easier (and cheaper) to do in an empty space. From changing locks to refinishing your floors, here are 10 projects to complete before moving day to save you time, money, and future stress.
1. Change the locks for your new home
First and foremost, it’s important to keep your family and your new home safe. Therefore, before you move, be sure to change your locks, whether you hire a locksmith or do it yourself. Don’t forget to lock your back door, garage door, and any sheds or other buildings on your property.
2. Remove the popcorn ceiling
Older homes often have rough “popcorn” on their ceilings, an unsightly old trend that gives a home’s interior a dated look. It is important to note that this type of ceiling may contain asbestos. If you have asbestos, you will need to hire a professional asbestos removal company to remove the asbestos from your home. If your home was built before the 1980s and has a popcorn ceiling, we highly recommend that you hire a professional to test and remove it.
3. Deep clean your entire house.
Whether you do it yourself or hire a service, every home can benefit from deep cleaning, especially the bathroom and kitchen. Don’t forget to clean your cabinets and drawers. This is also a good time to install shelf liners and splash protection to extend the life of your cabinets.
4. Paint the interior of your home
A fresh coat of paint is a simple and affordable home improvement project that can add color and breathe new life into your space. It also helps protect your home’s surfaces from wear and tear. Whether you do the work yourself or hire someone to do it, it’s much easier to paint without moving around the furniture. If you paint your home before you move in, you won’t have to worry about smells when the paint dries.
5. Add storage options to your closet
Installing shelving before you move into your home gives you more space to store your belongings and prevents clutter from the beginning. Pantries and storage closets may also need additional shelving and organization. If your home is small, adding shelves to the ceiling will help keep you organized and make your space less cluttered.
6. Make electrical upgrades
You can make these upgrades at any time, but it’s easier to access them all with free space. If you’re moving to an older home, especially one built before the mid-1990s, consider installing additional outlets or upgrading your existing outlets. Many older homes don’t have the electrical capacity to match the number of electronics and powerful devices we use today. Adding electrical outlets to your room will make it easier to arrange furniture like speakers, gaming systems, and light fixtures, and will also leave room for everyone to plug in their phones.
7. Replace the flooring
If you’re moving into a new home, you may not need to renovate your floors. However, if you don’t like carpet or tile, or need to refinish your existing wood floors, it’s the perfect time to make a change. If you put it off, you’ll have to move all your furniture out of the way. Who wants to move furniture twice? From reclaimed hardwood to concrete, there are many unique and eco-friendly flooring options to consider. As you update your flooring, your contractor can also replace baseboards and other decorative work to match.
8. Install a fence around the property
The home you just bought may not have proper fencing for pets and children. If so, it’s a good time to consider adding one. Installing a fence can ensure your family’s safety, hide your pool or hot tub, reduce traffic noise, protect your landscaping, provide privacy, and increase your home’s curb appeal. This is also a feature that many home buyers desire. So when the time comes to sell your home years later, this home improvement project can increase its value and help you stand out in the local housing market.
9. Contact a pest control company to prevent an infestation
Even if you don’t have bugs, rats, or other pests in your home, that doesn’t mean they aren’t there or won’t decide to move. By hiring a professional exterminator, you can prevent ants, cockroaches, and other insects from taking over your home. Be aware that if all your neighbors have chemical insect fencing and you don’t, a colony of insects may target your home instead.
10. Consider remodeling projects in high-traffic areas
If you’ve ever renovated a frequently used space, such as a kitchen or bathroom, you know how inconvenient it can be. So if you already know you’ll be renovating these high-traffic spaces, consider doing so before you move in, whether it’s a simple fix like replacing outlet covers or updating window treatments, or a larger fix like replacing old doors, replacing old windows, or updating ceiling fans. Also, be sure to discuss with your contractor whether a building permit is required for your home improvement project before proceeding with the renovation.
Frequently asked questions about home improvement projects
If you want to increase the value of your home, which projects should you consider?
If you want to increase resale value as well as comfort, prioritize upgrades that improve features and reduce appeal, such as:
Installing a new garage door Replacing existing windows and roofs Refreshing the look of your home Updating flooring and kitchen equipment
Which home improvement project does not add value?
While some renovations are done purely for aesthetic reasons, many homeowners undertake home improvement projects to increase the value of their home. If this is the case, don’t prioritize the next project that doesn’t add value.
Convert bedrooms into closets Install high-end fixtures Paint them in bold colors and patterns Install elaborate landscaping and outdoor features
Which projects can be done for less than $1,000?
You don’t have to spend a fortune on a home improvement project. Here are some under $1,000 renovation projects that can improve the look and feel of your home.
Update cabinet knobs and handles Update the kitchen backsplash Plant flowers or trees Add safety measures like security cameras
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