Buying a house in Toronto is one of the most exciting moments anyone can ever experience. It doesn’t matter if it’s your first purchase or your twentieth; the thrill of new ownership never gets old!
Toronto certainly has a lot to offer. It won’t be long before you get out to explore the incredible parks, shopping, and entertainment that have put our city on the map.
With so much to look forward to in your new home, it’s understandable that you want the celebrations to begin before the ink is dry on the title. In this post, we’ll talk about what happens once you get the keys and how to settle in as seamlessly as possible.
First Things First
Getting the keys is thrilling, in part because you have a brand new place that you are ecstatic to call home, but also because the buying process is over. Now, you can decide what colours to paint the walls, who gets what room, and what furniture goes where. But first, there are a few items to check off to ensure your transition goes smoothly and according to plan.
- Take a quick look around to ensure everything is in order, no broken windows or stairs – unless you knew in advance. If the seller promised to make any repairs, be sure they followed through.
- If you haven’t already, contact the utility companies and your Internet service provider.
- Clean the floors, walls, and any countertop surfaces.
- For your peace of mind, contact a locksmith to rekey or change the locks.
- Ensure there is a smoke detector on each level and that each has a brand new battery.
- Replace the HVAC filter.
- Find a safe space for all of your mortgage and homeowner paperwork.
- Put together what you will need for the next 24 to 48 hours after you move in, such as toiletries, clothing and groceries. With the essentials set aside, you can take your time unpacking and organizing everything else.
Are you in the beginning stages of your Toronto home purchase? The posts below can help streamline your journey:
- What Etobicoke Home Is Right for Your Growing Family?
- Should You Buy a House Close to a School?
- 7 Signs You’ve Found The Right Home
Take a Moment for You
Looking at piles of taped-up boxes and unassembled furniture can seem overwhelming after you’ve first moved in. It’s often the last thing you want to see after what may have been months of house-hunting, negotiating offers, and legal details before your transaction finally closed.
Taking a moment out for you can be great for your mental and physical well-being. Yes, the list of things to do is long, but only a few tasks are urgent and need to be done immediately. Others can wait another couple of hours or even a day or two. A walk around the block of your new neighbourhood can help you get your thoughts together.
Alternatively, a nice long bubble bath can work to soothe away much of the stress you may be feeling. After a moment’s rest, you’ll be ready to dive back in and start turning your new house into a place you are proud to call home.
Fine Tune Your Vision
We may talk about finding a “perfect” home during the buying process. But no matter how beautiful or ideal any listing is, there is almost always something you will want to finetune. The unpacking and rearranging stage is a great time to start planning any renovations or upgrades you’ll want in your new home.
You don’t have to call your contractor this very instant, but it certainly doesn’t hurt to start thinking about what colour you want to paint the walls, what kitchen backsplash you want, or what bathroom upgrades will transform your space into an oasis.
Some updates you will want to make right away, such as switching out any old appliances that don’t work for you. Others may take place far into the future. In any case, your ideas may change over time. That said, planning now helps you clarify your vision of what you want and need in your new home.
For even more tips to love your new home and lifestyle, check out the related reading below:
- What Are The Best Parks In Etobicoke For Leisure And Relaxation?
- How Can You Make Your New House a Home?
- Lighting Techniques That Give Your Home an Instant Facelift
Say “Hello” to Your New Neighbours
Getting to know your new surroundings is the perfect way for your entire family to settle into your home. Many of your planned renovations can wait, but you can begin taking advantage of the incredible amenities and activities almost immediately after moving in.
No matter where you end up in Toronto, you can count on great restaurants, shops, and events to add excitement to your day. And you never know; what begins with an introduction and quick “hello” to your new neighbours might result in finding a lifetime friend!
Do you have questions about finding the right home in Etobicoke? Our team of experts is happy to guide you through the process. Reach out to us at ana@asantos.ca or call 647.232.7317 for more information.