The Ultimate First Home Essentials Checklist

The first home is a huge milestone in anyone's life. Whether you’re starting your first job, getting married, or moving out of the house you grew up in, getting your first apartment or buying a new home is something you should prepare for well before move-in day. There are many things to consider before deciding what to buy and what to do first. We’ve broken down the checklist of new home essentials below to get you started on your exciting adventure.

Things to Do Before Move-In

Download Checklist Here

Before you cozy up on the couch, you have to have a plan in place to enjoy life in your new house. Utilizing move-in checklists will keep you prepared and informed leading up to the big day. Below are a few things to tackle before you move in, ideally as soon as possible. 

ASAP: Payments, Transfers, and Bookkeeping 

• Pay all deposits

• Purchase home insurance or renters insurance

• Book a freight elevator or parking space for move-in, if needed

• Book a local moving company

• Document moving expenses for tax returns or reimbursement

• Contact utility, cable, and internet companies to discuss how to transfer bills 

• Update your address with the postal service and DMV

• Secure important documents and warranties (now is the time to know if you have transferable warranties on appliances)

• Take photos of any valuable items

• Book a cleaning service for move-in (or plan to DIY it)

• Make plans to board any pets during the move

• Budget for emergencies by creating a separate savings account for unexpected home costs

One Week Before Move-in to Your First Apartment or House

• Do a final walk-through with your property manager or real estate agent and ensure any needed repairs will be completed by move-in day

• Take measurements for furniture in each room of your new apartment or house

• For rentals, write down any pre-existing damages you don’t want to be charged for upon move-out

• Get to know the restaurants, parks, doctors, and gyms in your new area

• Donate or sell unwanted items, or call a junk hauling company to remove excess items

• Make plans to dispose of or donate items that cannot be packed by a moving company based on their guidelines

• Pack and label each box by room (the earlier, the better—bonus points if you use color-coded markers) 

• Prepare a “first night” box with the moving essentials you will need when you arrive at your new home

Move-in Day at Your New Home

The big day has finally arrived. Chances are you’re excited, overly caffeinated, and if we’re being honest, a little nervous. Don’t worry—we’ve got you. Here’s what to do to make sure everything runs smoothly during your big move.

First Day To-Do’s 

Before you start unpacking boxes and finding a new home for all of your belongings, there are a few essential boxes to check off your to-do list. 

• Change the locks on all of the exterior doors

• Find the utility shut-off valves

• Find the circuit breaker

• If desired, paint the interior of your home

• Turn on HVAC system to ensure proper functioning

Unpack Home Essentials by Room

When it's time to unpack and get everything in the right place, you should have the essentials ready to go in your new house. Here's what you should have to be prepared to make your new place your own. 

Kitchen

• Trash bin and recycling bin

• Flatware, dishes, and cups

• Pots, pans, and baking sheets

• Drawer and other kitchen organizers

• Cooking utensils

• Dish soap and dishwasher detergent

• Paper towels and paper towel holder

• Kitchen towels and oven mitts

• Mixing bowls and mixers

• Small appliances (toaster, microwave, etc.)

Bathroom

• Shower curtain and liner

• Shower rings or hooks

• Shower rod

• Towel bars

• Air freshener and soaps

• Trash can

• Plunger, toilet brush, and holder

• Hand towels and bath towels

• Toiletries (toothbrush and holders)

Bedroom

• Pillows

• Pillowcases

• Pillow protectors

• Comforters

• Blankets

• Sheets 

• Mattress

• Mattress pad 

• Mattress protector

Closet and Organization

• Clothes hangers

• Accessory organizers

• Door hooks

• Mirrors

• Drawer organizers

• Shelf organizers

• Shoe rack

• Vacuum seal storage bags

• Storage bins and organizers

• Hamper

Windows and Doors

• Blinds and shades

• Curtains and drapes

• Curtain rods

• Window hardware

• Curtain tie backs

Cleaning Supplies

• Gloves

• Bleach

• Glass cleaner

• All-purpose cleaner

• Disinfectant

• Broom 

• Dustpan

• Duster

• Vacuum cleaner

• Mop

• Buckets

• Towels

• Laundry detergent

• Dryer sheets

• Dish soap

• Sponges

Necessary Utilities

• Toolbox and tools

• Batteries and chargers

• Candles and matches

• Carbon monoxide detectors

• Smoke detectors

• Fire extinguisher—be sure to check expiration dates 

• First aid kit

• Space heaters

• Fans

• Dehumidifier/humidifier

• Air purifier

• Home security devices or system

• Iron and ironing board

• Extra light bulbs

• Step stool

• Surge protectors

• Wi-Fi router

• Lawn and garden supplies, e.g., lawnmower, edger, shovel, hose, hose reel, etc.

Home Decor and Living 

• Beds

• Nightstands

• Dressers

• Area rugs

• Bookcases

• Shelving

• Coffee 

• End tables

• Doormats 

• Sofa

• Chairs

• Dining table 

• Lamps

• Picture frames

Maintenance and Upkeep of Your New Home

The checklist doesn't stop after you move in—you still need to keep everything running smoothly as the months go on. It's always good to know what you should do every season. Keep this list handy and refer back to it to help you keep loving your home as much as the day you moved in.

Spring Maintenance 

• Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

• Change AC filter

• Inspect the roof for damage or leaks

• Clean windows, doors, and screens

• Polish furniture

• Dust light and other fixtures

• Inspect deck and refinish as needed

• Power wash windows and building siding

• Inspect chimney (if applicable)

• Check sprinkler heads and remove insulation from pipes and hoses

• Fertilize the lawn

• Schedule HVAC inspection

• Flush or drain the water heater

• Hire professional septic tank inspection, if needed 

• Clear leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts

• Check for caulking deterioration (replace as needed)

Summer Maintenance

• Oil garage door opener, chain, door, and hinges

• Clean kitchen exhaust filter

• Clean dryer vent and washer hoses (outdoor and indoor)

• Clean refrigerator freezer coils and drip trays

• Inspect dishwasher, kitchen, and bathroom for leaks

• Replace any faucet washers as needed (outdoor and indoor)

• Seal any tile grout

• Prune trees and shrubs that bloomed in the spring

Fall Maintenance

• Hire a professional to inspect the forced-air system

• Aerate the lawn and rake leaves

• Schedule professional fireplace cleaning

• Seal cracks and gaps with caulk and replace weather stripping

• Touch up the exterior with paint as needed

• Inspect roofing for damage and leaks

• Power wash windows and siding

• Remove leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts

• Fix cracks and gaps in driveway and walkways

• Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

• Schedule professional carpet cleaning

• Clean window and door screens 

• Vacuum lint from dryer vent

• Check for water heater leaks 

• Check and fix loose or squeaky door hardware

• Check for frayed cords and wires

• Drain sprinkler system and hoses 

• Store hoses

• Wrap insulation around outdoor faucets and pipes

Winter Maintenance

• Vacuum refrigerator from debris and clean coils and drip trays

• Cover AC unit

• Vacuum bathroom exhaust

• Inspect roof, gutters, and downspouts monthly for ice dams

• Check the basement for leaks regularly

• Clean sink, tub, shower, and dishwasher drains

How Much Does It Cost to Hire Professional Movers?

Considering the lengthy list of essentials you’ll need for your first home, you’ll probably want the help of movers. The cost of professional movers can vary based on the distance, the size of the home, and the number of crew members. Here is a quick breakdown of what you can expect to pay when hiring a professional moving company, including additional fees to expect: 

• Cost of crew per hour: Around $80 per crew member

• Local moves: $880 to $2,600 

• Long-distance moves: $2,700 to $10,000+

• Packing services: $280 to $2,200 extra, depending on the size of the home

• Specialty items (pianos, safes, etc.): $100 to $2,000, depending on the size and weight of the item

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

When you’re moving into a new place, costs can vary greatly depending on whether you go the DIY route or hire the pros. Each option has pros and cons, regarding both price and convenience. Depending on the distance of the move, you could potentially save thousands of dollars by DIYing. You’ll just need to cover the cost of packing supplies and truck rental. 

The biggest downsides to a DIY move are the added time and the physical effort. If you’re moving lots of boxes and furniture, a professional crew can get the job done in far less time. You also won’t have to worry about possible injuries. You may spend anywhere from $880 to about $10,000 for a long-distance move. If you want to save on costs, tackle all the packing yourself, and consider moving smaller items, leaving mostly furniture and bulky items to the pros.