Welcome to your new home! To ensure a smooth transition into your resale home, here’s a simplified guide focusing on crucial house-related set-up tasks:

1. Smoke Detectors: Install new smoke detectors on every floor, especially near sleeping areas. Replace every 10 years.

2. Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Install in sleeping areas as per the manufacturer’s guidelines.

3. Door Locks: Change all door locks for enhanced security. Consider deadbolts for added safety.

4. HVAC Systems: Schedule an inspection and ongoing maintenance for your heating and air-conditioning systems.

5. Main Shutoffs: Locate and label main shutoffs for heating, electrical, and plumbing for quick access during emergencies.

6. Electrical Panel: Label all circuits in your electrical panel for convenience.

7. Chimneys and Wood Appliances: Get chimneys inspected and cleaned as necessary.

8. AC Unit Clearance: Ensure a 3-foot clearance around outdoor air-conditioning units.

9. Washing Machine Hoses: Use braided steel hoses for reliability.

10. Dryer Vents: Install smooth-walled metal ducts for your dryer’s venting system.

11. Fire Extinguishers: Place at least one on each floor, with kitchen-specific extinguishers for grease fires.

12. Fire Escape Plans: Establish escape routes from upper floors, including rope ladders if needed.

13. Safety Upgrades: Promptly address any safety recommendations from your home inspector.

Regular Home Maintenance Program

Maintaining your home is key to preserving its value and functionality. Here’s a simplified maintenance schedule:

Monthly Tasks

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

• Check ground fault circuit interrupters.

• Clean or replace filters in HVAC systems.

• Test garage door safety features.

• Clean range hood and central vacuum system filters.

Quarterly Tasks

• Clean tracks and ensure functionality of sliding doors and windows.

• Check floor drain traps.

• Maintain heat recovery ventilators and bathroom exhaust fans.

Seasonal Tasks

• Spring: Service air-conditioning, turn off humidifiers, test well water, inspect chimneys, and service sump pumps.

• Fall: Clean gutters, service heating systems, prepare outdoor hose bibs for winter, and ensure all heating elements are functioning correctly.

Annual Tasks

• Trim trees and shrubs around AC units and buildings.

• Inspect roofing, attic, building exterior, and caulking in wet areas.

• Check exterior paint and soil grading.

• Vacuum refrigerator and freezer coils.

• Check fire extinguishers and lubricate garage doors.

Ongoing

• Maintain septic systems with regular inspections and pumping as needed.

Remember, a well-maintained home is a happy home. This guide will help you keep on top of essential tasks to ensure your home remains safe, efficient, and comfortable.