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Couple moving couch

10 Things To Do When You Move Into a New Home

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Congratulations! You’ve bought a new home. Move in, get comfortable and check off the items on this list for your personal security and preparedness. 

  1. If you haven’t already, set up your utilities. Call your water, electric, gas, sewer and garbage companies to start your services. 
  2. Update your address of important documents, like your driver’s license, credit card, banks and subscriptions, to name just a few, and make sure your mail is being forwarded from your old address to your new home.
  3. Change all of your locks. Call a locksmith out to get new locks in place. You never know who could have access to a spare of the original locks. Also, consider whether a security system is necessary for you and your family.
  4. Reset codes, like garage openers and gates. Similar to locks, you don’t know where a code might be floating around or who might have access to them. 
  5. Test fire and carbon monoxide detectors or install ones if there aren’t any. Make sure the batteries are fresh and ready to go. 
  6. Change your air filters to ensure better airflow and lower your home’s energy usage. Also, make sure to change your air filter every three months.
  7. Get a fire extinguisher for your kitchen and each floor of your home. Better safe than sorry! 
  8. Find your circuit box and label each breaker, so you’re not guessing if a problem comes up. 
  9. Find gas and water shut-off valves in case of a gas leak or a pipe breaks so you can handle the problem right away. 
  10. Check that everything on your inspection report was addressed. If they weren’t, reach out to your REALTOR® to let them know.

Then, get comfortable, set up your new space and have piece of mind knowing your new space is ready for you!

Female Real Estate agent with a couple

5 Steps to Start the Home Buying Process

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The long and winding road to home buying can be confusing and scary, but it doesn’t have to be! Here are five easy steps to follow in the beginning stages of the home buying process, because knowing the route will help make the ride to your new home smoother and less stressful. 

#1: Create a Plan 

Of course, you want to look at houses. But first thing’s first, do your research and make a plan. Get an idea of your budgets so you know what you can afford. Create a timeline of when you would like to purchase a home and move. Make a list of must-haves, as well as things that would be nice to have but aren’t necessities. Having a plan in mind will help you navigate further down the road. 

#2: Research 

Don’t worry, this research is the fun kind! Take a look at listings online to get a feel for what you like, as well as what will and won’t fit into your budget. 

#3: Find a REALTOR® 

Your REALTOR® will be your guide during this time. Make sure you find the right one for you. They will be your expert and go to on this journey, so don’t be afraid to interview multiple REALTORS® find the one that fits your needs. Use our REALTOR® search to find a Chicago REALTOR® who fits with you!

#4: Choose a Lender and Loan 

Your REALTOR® can recommend trusted lenders to begin the loan process. Each mortgage lender, depending on the company they work for, will be able to provide different fees, rates and requirements, so make sure to find the one that works best for you. 

Then, you will work with your lender to decide which mortgage type is right for you. Options include fixed-rate, adjustable, conventional or government loans, to name just a few. 

#5: Get Pre-Approved 

The last step before you start looking for your forever home is to get pre-approved. Your lender will ask for a variety of documents, from proof of income to bank statements and more, which will all determine what amount you will be able to spend on a home. But remember, a pre-approval does not mean you are guaranteed a loan. Think of it as a way to show buyers that you’re serious about buying a home and making an offer. 

From here, it will be time to looking at places and get that much closer to making your homeownership dreams come true! 

Download our infographic for referrence and to share with your peers!