5 things to do before and after closing a sale
Your offer has been accepted but the journey is not over yet. Read these five tips to make your ready for the next step.
You’ve probably been house hunting for months (or even years). You’ve gone though viewings, offers, inspections and reports. Finally, after so much excitement, stress and anxiety, you've heard those magic words that your offer has been accepted and the house hunt has come to an end.
It might feel tempting but once the sale has closed its not quite time to relax yet. Here are some important next steps to think about before you actually move in.
1. Plan any building work in advance
Few houses are in perfect turn-key condition. By the time that contracts are being signed, you will have lots of ideas about how you’ll live in the home, how you'll decorate and what structural works need to be done.
If your new home needs work, don’t wait until the sale is closed before engaging a builder or professional. Use your final walkthrough or make a private appointment with the agent to invite your contractor in to give you a quote. If you can, try to have floor sanding, painting or small fix-it work done before you move in.
2. Set up the utilities
Many utility companies have grace periods (the days between when the seller cancels service and the new owner calls) but you can’t always assume this will be the case. If the house you are buying has been vacant for a long time the seller may have cancelled services long ago. In this instance, the grace period has probably lapsed, and you may be stuck dealing with the electric company, waiting for an appointment or just being without power when you really want to start painting, fixing or cleaning.
The best plan is to call the utility companies and get service set up well before closing. If they haven’t received the cancellation notice from the seller, you can let the agent know to ask the seller to take care of that.
3. Consider a deep-cleaning service
Many sellers make sure the property is fully cleaned when they sell but it's best to not assume that's always the case. Before arriving at the door with all your furniture and belongings it might be a good idea to hire a cleaning crew after you close. You can then start life in your new home with a clean slate, and you won’t be scrambling to get cleaners in while the home is full or boxes.
4. Change the locks
During a house sale many people can have access to a set of keys. That’s why before moving any valuables in the first person you should call after getting the keys is a locksmith.
5. Find a good local handyman
As you move in theres a high chance that you will find something that needs fixing. Whether it be a light fixture, a leaky pipe or a warped door a good handyman can soon be your best asset. Check online sites or local Facebook groups to find someone near your new home.
Planning ahead is the way to go
As your closing date draws closer and closer, you’re probably exhausted. But taking some extra time to plan ahead will save you time, money and a lot of stress — and make the move into your new home so much easier. Good luck!
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