Are you a first time home buyer? If so, congratulations! You managed to navigate the stressful process that is purchasing a home, and you’ve come out on the other side with a mortgage contract in one hand and a set of house keys in the other. Now, what do you do next?
Moving into a new home is an exciting time, but it also comes with a long to-do list. That’s especially true here in San Antonio where life never seems to slow down. We at South Texas Insulation want to help your move go as smoothly as possible by reminding you of some of the most important things to think about before move-in.
Here are the top five things we think you should consider as you settle into your new home.
How comfortable will your home be throughout the year?
Sure, you’ll be spending a lot of time out and about in the neighborhood, but you’ll be spending even more time within the walls of your home. Your house’s insulation has perhaps the greatest bearing on your home comfort, so it’s a good idea to check the state of your insulation soon after move-in.
A simple way to do this is to schedule a home energy audit. This will tell you exactly where insulation gaps and air leaks are so you can make upgrades as soon as possible.
When you have your new home professionally air sealed and insulated after an energy audit, you’ll enjoy a wide range of benefits for years to come, including:
- Enhanced year-round comfort
- More efficient home heating & cooling
- Lower heating & cooling costs
- Longer lasting HVAC equipment
- Greater noise reduction
- Healthier indoor air quality
How will your house hold up against drafts?
Houses with single-pane windows and weather-beaten exterior doors are not nearly as comfortable or energy efficient as they could be. This is because older windows let valuable heat escape in the winter and unwanted heat enter in the summer. Aged doors, meanwhile, are more likely to let drafts and outside contaminants in.
If older windows and doors are undermining your home’s performance, now is also a good time to plan for window and door replacement.
How are the schools in the neighborhood?
If you have kids or are planning to in the future, check with your new neighbors about the schools in the area. Are they sending their kids to public school or private school? How far away is the school that your kids will attend? Will it affect your work commute? What about school-sponsored clubs and organizations?
Be sure to get answers to these questions as soon as possible so your kids have an easier time settling into the neighborhood!
Where is the nearest grocery store?
You’re going to make frequent trips to the grocery store — and likely multiple grocery stores to cover all of your bases. Which nearby store has the best prices? Where can you run when you need last-minute supplies for the school bake sale? Are you closer to a Costco or Sam’s Club for bulk items? And is there a Whole Foods or HEB nearby, or should you plan to stop by those on your way home from work?
Chances are you have several grocery stores to choose from, so now’s a good time to decide which ones will get your loyalty!
What are some fun things to do?
This is another good thing to ask your neighbors about. Find out where the nearest parks are — including which one might be best for a picnic and which one might be best for an impromptu baseball game. Which movie theater has the best stadium seating, and which one has the best prices? Are there any other entertainment options that only locals might know about? For those trips downtown, don’t forget to find out where the nearest Metro stop is.
Trust South Texas Insulation to Set Your New Home Up for Success
If you’re a first-time home buyer, it’s important to ask the right questions at move-in. This is especially true when it comes to your home’s overall health and energy efficiency. South Texas Insulation is here to help you assess your home and recommend smart upgrades for maximum comfort and energy savings. That’s one less thing for you to worry about!
New home? South Texas Insulation can help you boost indoor comfort and energy savings from the start. Contact us or call 210.599.8681 to talk to a home insulation expert!