Congratulations! You’ve officially closed on your first home in Michigan! You’ve signed the papers, gotten the keys, and now it’s time for the exciting part: moving in and making this house your home. While moving can be a bit chaotic, with some planning, you can make the transition smoother and start enjoying your new space in no time.

Before the Big Day: Packing and Planning

• Start Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to start packing. Begin sorting through your belongings room by room a few weeks in advance. Decide what you want to keep, donate, or discard.
• Pack Smart: Use sturdy boxes and label them clearly with the contents and the room they belong in. This will make unpacking much easier. Use plenty of packing material (like bubble wrap or old newspapers) to protect fragile items.  
• Essentials Box: Pack a separate box with essentials you’ll need on your first night, such as toiletries, medications, phone chargers, basic kitchen supplies, and a change of clothes.
• Change Your Address: Don’t forget to officially change your address with the post office and update it with important contacts like banks, utility companies, and subscription services.
• Schedule Utilities: Contact the utility companies (gas, electricity, water) in your new Michigan location to schedule service to begin on or before your move-in day. Also, arrange for internet and cable if needed.

Moving Day Tips:

• Protect Your Floors: Use old blankets or cardboard to protect your floors from scratches as you move furniture and boxes.
• Take Breaks: Moving is hard work! Remember to take breaks and stay hydrated.
• Unpack Strategically: Start with the essentials box and then focus on unpacking one room at a time, starting with the bedrooms and bathrooms.

Settling In and Making it Home:

• Explore Your Neighborhood: Take some time to walk or drive around your new Michigan neighborhood. Find local grocery stores, parks, schools, and other important places.
• Meet Your Neighbors: Introduce yourself to your neighbors. Building a friendly relationship with them can make you feel more connected to your community.
• Unpack and Organize Gradually: Don’t feel pressured to unpack everything at once. Take your time and organize each room in a way that works for you.
• Personalize Your Space: Start making the house feel like your own by hanging pictures, arranging furniture in a way you love, and adding personal touches that reflect your style.
• Learn Basic Home Maintenance: Familiarize yourself with the basics of your new home, like where the circuit breaker box and water shut-off valve are located. Learn how to change a light bulb and other simple maintenance tasks relevant to Michigan homes, like checking your furnace filter regularly.
• Safety First: Change the locks on your doors as soon as you move in for added security. Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors if they aren’t already present and test them regularly.

Moving into your first home in Michigan is a significant and exciting step. Be patient with yourself as you settle in and enjoy the process of creating a space where you can build lasting memories. Welcome home!

Ready to make your move to your first Michigan home as smooth as possible?

As a local mortgage lender in Metro Detroit, I understand that buying a home is just the beginning. If you have any questions about local resources for new homeowners in Michigan or need recommendations for reliable service providers in the area, please don’t hesitate to ask. I’m here to support you beyond the closing table as you settle into your new life in our wonderful state!