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Have you recently purchased a new Ashton Woods home? Are you feeling a little lost in the moving process? Preparing to move can be a very overwhelming (but rewarding) process. To make your life easier, we have compiled a list of moving-day tips and frequently asked questions for homeowners to keep in mind.
Begin Planning Well-Before Your Move-In Date
- Host a ‘clean-out’ or ‘donation’ party prior to moving to get rid of any unwanted contents – The perfect way to share your favorite things with loved ones or those in need!
- Determine how manageable your move will be – Is the job something you and friends can handle? Or should you consider hiring professional movers?
Make Your Final Preparations
- This can be difficult in today’s busy world, but having dedicated time set aside to prepare for your move is a critical step.
- Start by clearing your schedule and designating several days to moving in and organizing your new home.
- Gather empty boxes to help consolidate and store your belongings. (You can typically get these for free at your local grocery store or warehouse club, or browse Craigslist for anyone who has an unwanted supply.)
- Contact the post office to have your mailing address updated.
Make sure all utilities are transferred to your new home.
Begin to Settle In & Relax!
- Include a detailed inventory to keep track of your boxes, so you know exactly what you have and where it belongs in your new home. Try labeling your boxes by room or family member.
- Become familiar with your new home’s maintenance requirements and stay up-to-date with them. Utilize an Annual Home Maintenance Calendar to keep track of when tasks should be completed.
- Gather all your home appliance and warranty information in one place and file it away for safe-keeping.
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- Familiarize yourself with your new home’s appliances, HVAC, water heater, fireplace and electrical breakers.
**Remember: All Ashton Woods homes come standard with an energy efficient guarantee to help decrease your monthly bills.
- Finally, if you plan to expand the decorating process past what you have done with our Design Experts, budget wisely and embrace the beautiful new home that has become your canvas to build upon.
- If you are looking for a little more design inspiration visit The Studio, Ashton Woods’ 9,000 square-foot full-service design studio — complete with one-on-one consultations!
HOMEOWNER FAQs:
1. What does homeowners insurance cover?
- Homeowners Insurances covers the structure of your house, other structures on the property, personal belongings and personal liability.
- Standard homeowners insurance does not protect you from most storm damages.
- Keep In Mind: Some dog breeds may be deemed an unacceptable liability risk to an insurance company.
2. Can a Homeowner’s Association require assessment fees?
- Yes, for common property maintenance.
3. What are covenants, conditions, and restrictions?
- These set forth rules or regulations to create uniformity of buildings within a community.
4. What can a Homeowner’s Association regulate?
- The appearance and maintenance of: basketball hoops, sheds, lawns, exterior paint, outdoor lights, window coverings, etc.
5. Who will be my new utilities provider?
- Many city and state websites will provide information for newcomers. Garbage pick-up, sewer, water, and recycling are usually provided at the local level while electricity and gas is usually provided by the state.
6. When should I call to set up new utilities accounts?
- To be safe, it’s best to contact your new provider at least two weeks in advance of your move-in date.
7. How do I apply for utility service?
- The usual steps include completion of an application and a credit check. If you are moving into your first home and haven’t had services before, the company will most likely ask for a deposit.
8. What are property taxes and how are they assessed?
- Property tax is a tax the owner of a property pays on their property’s value. This home value assessment is determined by city or county assessors, either when the property is sold or renovated, or according to a fixed assessment schedule. While the tax rates vary across the states, they are usually between 0.2 percent and 4 percent of the assessed value.
We hope these tips and tricks have made your life a little easier – Now you are fully prepared to sit back and enjoy being a homeowner!
Ashton Woods 