Whether it's for a new job, recent marriage, expanding family, change of scenery, or just the need for more space, becoming a first-time homeowner is one of life's exciting big moments. There's a lot to love about moving from an apartment to a house. You can remodel your house to reflect your taste, and that man cave, vegetable garden, or patio you've been dreaming of is one step closer to happening. But owning a house comes with much more responsibilities that you should be aware of to make the transition as easy as possible. Our agents have compiled a detailed apartment to house checklist to help you succeed in your exploit.

• Notify Your Landlord
  When it comes time to move out, giving your landlord advance notice is a mandatory step in the process. It's important to know what your lease says about when and how you should give notice. As a general rule, write a formal letter to your landlord at least 30 days before your planned move. The letter should include the date of your letter, the name of your landlord or property management, property address and unit number, the date you intend to move, your intention to move, and a request for knowing about your security deposit. Sign the letter and deliver it to your landlord by certified mail or in person as you pay your monthly rent.

• Complete Important House Projects
  Get any necessary repairs or renovations done before moving in. Improvement projects such as painting the walls, putting up wallpaper, refinishing/installing new floors, cleaning, or upgrading the HVAC system are easier to complete when the space is still mostly empty. Spray for pests a week before moving to ensure the products get to all the nooks and crannies before moving in your furniture. This will also allow harmful chemicals to clear off by move-in day.
  
  
• Buy and Check the Appliances
  Except for small items like a blender, toaster, or coffee maker, you'll almost have no appliances of your own, and, in most cases, your new home won't have any appliances. You'll need to buy everything necessary ASAP, including a refrigerator, washer and dryer, dishwasher, cooking range, and microwave. When shopping around for appliances, be sure to opt for quality products that are also energy-efficient. If you manage to negotiate appliances as part of the sale, test all of them before closing and complete any necessary repairs.
  
  
• Plan for Maintenance Chores
  All those outdoor maintenance tasks your landlord took care of are now your responsibility. You'll need to invest in a lawnmower, sprinkler system, weed trimmer, shovel, rake, hoe, hedge clippers, and pruning shears. You'll also need snow shovels, watering hoses, or a leaf blower. Also, schedule annual preventive maintenance of your roof, HVAC, plumbing, electrical system, siding, and windows and doors.
  
  
• Update Your Address
  Start by notifying the post office of your change of address at least a week before moving day. You'll also want to update your address with banks, insurance companies, credit card companies, utilities, clubs and organizations, online shopping sites, magazine and subscription services, and individual service providers. Importantly, remember to update your address with the Social Security Administration, employers, the IRS, and other financial agencies. Lastly, send a mass email to your friends and family.
  
  
• Set Up Utilities
  At least two weeks before your actual move-in date, contact your service providers and arrange to have the utilities turned on and transferred to your name. You'll need to complete an online application and submit a credit check. Because you're moving to your new home, the utility company will probably ask for a security deposit, depending on the amount of usage your new home may consume. 
  
  
• Secure Your House
  Homes are more vulnerable than apartments, so you need to secure your property as soon as you move in. Get started by changing the locks. Previous owners may have handed out copies of the keys to other people and not received them all back. Consider installing new locks just to be safe.

After the move, focus on making your house feel like a home and get to meet your new neighbors. If you're still looking for your dream home, our agents are here to help you narrow your search and make the best decision. Contact us to start exploring amazing Bakersfield homes for sale.