Buying a new home: taking possession and moving in
Buying a new home is an exciting endeavour, and since you’ll be buying something brand new, there’s a few steps to keep in mind so you’re fully prepared for move-in day.
Inspection and Possession
While the final stages of construction are underway and your new home, and the project is nearing completion, you’ll do a walk-through of your home with the builder. This is where you’ll get to see your home for the first time, and it’s the perfect opportunity to get anything fixed up or sorted out before you take possession.
Be sure that while you are going through the inspection process, you have the inspection sheet and note anything (even minor imperfections), as you’ll have to sign it. Make sure you know exactly what needs to be fixed, and on what timeline, so there’s no debate later on. You should receive an inspection checklist for your walk-through from your builder, but in case you want a head’s up on what to look for, here’s a great list from CHBA Alberta.
Approximately 35 days prior to your possession, you’ll receive a possession letter and you’ll have a short to-do list before move-in day. On the date of possession, you will be handed the keys, and the home is now yours!
Moving In
Moving to a new home can sometimes seem overwhelming, but packing efficiently and effectively will help make your move a lot easier on you and your family. Check out our tips for planning for a smooth packing and moving experience.
Once you get into your new home, you’ll want to spend some time getting to know the ins and outs of your new space. Your new home will incorporate the latest systems and products, so get to know how everything operates. All of your technical systems and appliances will come with user manuals, so ensure you read all that paperwork so you know not only how to operate things properly, but how to maintain them as well.
Home Maintenance
The first thing you should know about life in your new home, is that your home will be under some sort of a warranty program. Warranties will vary by builder, but there will be a home warranty, and then warranties set out by the manufacturer’s of products used in your home, such as appliances.
You’ll receive information from your home builder on the warranties for your new home, so ensure you’re educated on what those entail. For a bit more insight, here’s some information on Genesis’ warranties.
In order to keep your home in tip-top shape after you move in, you’ll want to keep some basic tools on hand, to take care of simple repair and maintenance jobs. Regular maintenance on your home will help keep everything running smoothly, and prevent future problems from coming up. Here’s our list of tools to keep on hand so you’re covered for all your home maintenance jobs.
Do you have more questions on buying a new home? Check out our website, or find us on Twitter to ask any questions.