Moving into a new home is one of life’s most exciting moments. You’ve packed, transported, and finally arrived—but now what? Many people think the hard part is over once the moving truck leaves, but there’s still plenty to do to make your new house feel like home.
Whether you’ve just moved across Melbourne or from another state, settling in properly is important. As a Melbourne moving expert, I’ve helped hundreds of families unpack and start fresh. So, here are the top 10 things you should do after moving into a new home to make the transition smooth and stress-free.
1. Check That Everything Arrived Safely
Before you start unpacking, make sure all your belongings made it safely to your new home. Use your inventory list or moving checklist to confirm that:
Every box is accounted for.
Fragile items like glassware or electronics are undamaged.
Large furniture pieces are placed in the right rooms.
If you notice anything missing or damaged, contact your moving company right away. Best Ozi Movers in Melbourne recommends checking as soon as possible—claims are easier to resolve when reported early.
2. Clean Before You Unpack
Even if the previous owners cleaned before moving out, it’s always a good idea to give your new space a fresh start. Wipe down counters, sweep and mop the floors, clean inside cabinets, and sanitize bathrooms.
It’s much easier to clean an empty house than one full of boxes. You’ll also feel more comfortable unpacking your belongings into a spotless home.
Pro Tip: Start cleaning from the top (ceilings, fans, and shelves) and work your way down to avoid dusting areas twice.
3. Set Up Essential Utilities
Your first night in a new home can be stressful if the lights don’t turn on or there’s no hot water. Make sure you set up:
Electricity and gas
Water
Internet and phone service
Garbage and recycling collection
If possible, arrange these utilities a few days before your move, so everything is ready when you arrive.
4. Unpack the Essentials First
You don’t need to unpack every box immediately. Focus on the most important items first—those that make your home livable right away.
Here’s a quick guide:
Bedroom: Bed, pillows, blankets, and lamps.
Bathroom: Towels, soap, toilet paper, and toothbrushes.
Kitchen: Plates, cutlery, a few pots and pans, and some food.
Once you have the basics set up, you can slowly work your way through the rest of your boxes over the next few days.
5. Change Your Locks and Security Codes
For peace of mind, it’s smart to change the locks as soon as you move in. You never know how many people have spare keys to your new home—former owners, cleaners, or even neighbors.
Also, update any security system passwords, garage door codes, and alarm settings. Safety comes first, especially when you’re new to the neighborhood.
6. Update Your Address Everywhere
Once you’ve settled in, make sure your new address is updated with important services and institutions. Here’s a quick checklist:
Post office (for mail forwarding)
Banks and credit card companies
Insurance providers
Driver’s license and vehicle registration
Schools or employers
Online shopping accounts (like Amazon or eBay)
This ensures you don’t miss important mail or deliveries.
7. Inspect Appliances and Fixtures
Before you get too comfortable, take some time to check that everything in your home works properly:
Test the oven, stove, and dishwasher.
Turn on faucets to check water pressure and temperature.
Try all light switches and outlets.
Check smoke detectors and replace batteries if needed.
Fixing small issues early prevents bigger problems later.
8. Get to Know Your New Neighborhood
A new home isn’t just about the building—it’s also about the community. Take a walk around your neighborhood to:
Meet your neighbors.
Find the nearest grocery stores, pharmacies, and petrol stations.
Discover parks, cafes, and restaurants nearby.
Learn about local public transport routes and stops.
Feeling connected to your area helps you settle in faster and makes your new house truly feel like home.
9. Make It Feel Like Yours
Once you’ve unpacked and organized, add personal touches to make the space your own. Hang photos, arrange your favorite decorations, or paint the walls a color you love.
This step transforms your new house into a place that reflects your style and personality.
Pro Tip: Start with common areas like the living room and kitchen—these are the spaces you’ll spend the most time in.
10. Plan a Housewarming (Even a Small One)
After all the hard work of moving, it’s nice to celebrate! Plan a small housewarming with close friends or family. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just a simple get-together to share your new space and make happy memories.
A small gathering also gives you motivation to finish unpacking and decorating faster.
Bonus Tip: Keep Your Moving Receipts
If your move was job-related, some moving expenses might be tax-deductible. Keep your receipts for moving services, packing materials, and transportation just in case you need them later.
Final Thoughts
Moving into a new home can feel overwhelming at first, but with the right approach, it becomes an exciting new beginning. Take your time to unpack, clean, and explore your surroundings. Focus on small steps each day, and soon your new house will feel like a true home.
Ready to Move into your Dream Home?
Let Best Ozi Movers in Melbourne handle the heavy lifting. Our professional team makes your move smooth, safe, and stress-free—so you can settle in faster and start enjoying your new home right away!
FAQs About Things to Do After Moving into a New Home
Q1: How soon should I unpack after moving?
There’s no rush. Focus on unpacking essential rooms like the bedroom and kitchen first, then move to other areas at your own pace.
Q2: Should I clean before or after unpacking?
It’s best to clean before unpacking. It’s easier to clean empty spaces and ensures your belongings stay fresh and tidy.
Q3: When should I change my address?
Ideally, change your address one to two weeks before moving. This ensures you don’t miss important mail or bills.
Q4: How can I make my new home feel cozy quickly?
Start by unpacking personal items like photos, cushions, and decorations. Familiar touches make a house feel like home faster.
Q5: Should I hire professional movers or do it myself?
Hiring professional movers like Best Ozi Movers in Melbourne saves time, prevents damage, and reduces stress—especially if you’re moving large items or furniture.