Buying a home in Mundelein, Illinois is an exciting milestone—but before you settle in and start decorating, there are a few important tasks to check off your list. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, these simple but often-overlooked steps can help you avoid unnecessary stress and ensure a smooth transition.
Here are five essential things to do before moving into your new home in Mundelein—plus a few bonus tips to make the process even easier.
1. 🔐 Change the Locks
It might sound obvious, but this is one of the most critical things you can do. You never know who may still have keys to your new home—from previous owners to contractors, dog walkers, or even neighbors.
Pro Tip: Hire a locksmith or rekey the locks yourself for peace of mind. Don’t forget the garage door codes and any smart locks, too.
2. ⚡ Set Up Utilities & Internet Early
Make sure to transfer or activate all necessary utilities before your move-in day. This includes:
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Electricity
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Gas
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Water & Sewer
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Trash Pickup
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Internet & Cable
Contact the service providers in Mundelein at least a week before your move to avoid any last-minute disruptions. Nothing’s worse than moving boxes by flashlight or missing that first Zoom call because your Wi-Fi isn’t working.
3. 🧯 Locate Shut-Off Valves & Circuit Breakers
Emergencies don’t wait for you to get comfortable in your new home. Knowing how to quickly shut off water, gas, or electricity could prevent major damage.
Take a moment to locate:
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Water shutoff valve
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Gas shutoff
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Main circuit breaker panel
Label them if needed, and show other household members where everything is.
4. 🧼 Deep Clean & Consider Pest Control
Even if the home looks clean, you never know what’s been left behind. Before your furniture arrives, schedule a deep clean or do it yourself while the house is empty.
Don’t forget:
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Steam clean the carpets
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Sanitize bathrooms and kitchens
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Clean windows, baseboards, and vents
Optional but recommended: Hire a pest control service to ensure you’re not sharing your new space with unwanted guests.
5. 📄 Review Your Home Warranty & Insurance Policies
If your new home in Mundelein came with a home warranty, take time to read through what’s covered and how to file a claim.
Also, double-check that your homeowners insurance is active and accurately reflects your coverage needs. Now is also a good time to:
✔️ Add riders for valuables
✔️ Verify liability limits
✔️ Review deductible amounts
Bonus Tip: 📬 Update Your Address
This one often gets overlooked in the chaos of moving. Be sure to update your address with:
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Your bank and credit cards
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Subscriptions (magazines, meal kits, etc.)
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Driver’s license and voter registration
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USPS for mail forwarding
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Employer and insurance companies
Ready to Make Mundelein Home? Helen Oliveri Has You Covered!
Buying a home is just the beginning. From closing day to move-in day, Helen Oliveri Real Estate is here to guide you every step of the way. With local expertise and decades of experience, Helen knows how to make your transition into Mundelein or anywhere in Lake County smooth, stress-free, and successful.
📍 Serving Mundelein, Hawthorn Woods, Long Grove, Lake Zurich, Kildeer, Vernon Hills, and all surrounding Lake County communities.
📞 Text “sold” to get started 🏠👇
847-967-0022 📲
@helenoliveri 👈
Helen Oliveri
Designated Managing Broker Owner
#HelenOliveriRealEstate #YourBestMove #MundeleinRealEstate #MovingToMundelein #LakeCountyHomes #NewHomeChecklist #IllinoisRealEstate
