Get an action plan for your new home

AFTER months of searching for the right home, applying for finance and patiently waiting for the keys to the front door, it is finally time to cross the threshold and move into your new home.

Now what? Adrian Goslett, regional director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, says that purchasing a new home is a very exciting time. “Irrespective of whether a buyer has never owned a property before and is moving into their first home or whether the buyer has sold a property and is moving into another home that meets their evolving needs, purchasing a home is opening a new chapter in one’s life. Before any new homeowner can relax and enjoy their new home, they may need to sort a few things out and make a few personal touches.

According to Goslett, following a simple five point action plan will assist new homeowners get their home into shape:

Tackle the practical issues first

As with any plan, it is important to make a list of things that are top priority so that they can be addressed first. It is best to start with the practical easy repairs and upgrades, especially those that have an effect on day-to-day life. “A few subtle and cost-effective changes can instantly make the home better, such as fixing a leaking tap or replacing outdated fixtures. A fresh coat of paint will also help freshen up the look of the home.

“Although it may ultimately be the new homeowners plan to undertake a big renovation project, small practical upgrades and fixes will make a big difference.”

A complete head-to-toe clean

Before moving all the furniture into the home, homeowners should take advantage of the fact that it is completely empty and hire a professional cleaning service to clean every corner, nook and cranny of the home. “There is a good chance that the only other time that the home will be completely empty again is when the homeowner decides to sell and moves out of the property, so while it is empty it makes sense for the new homeowner to make the most of the opportunity to get into any hard to reach spots and give them a clean.”

Consider the view

Goslett says that not only can the homeowner’s choice of window treatment affect the home’s privacy, comfort and ambiance, it can also potentially save money in the long-run.

Look at lighting

Another aspect that affects the feel and comfort of the home is the lighting. According to Goslett, once the homeowner has moved in all their furniture, they will be able to see if there are areas in the home that require different or additional lighting. After a week or two, the homeowner will see whether there are areas in the home that don’t get enough light and perhaps areas that get too much light. They will then be able to decide which lighting will best suit those parts of the home.

Select the right appliances

Major appliances in the home such as the stove, washing machines, refrigerator, dishwasher and dryer will have an impact on the homeowner’s daily life, as well as the monthly running cost of the home.