You found the perfect home, so it’s not surprising that you want to move in as quickly as possible. However, there are some projects that are best done when the house is still empty. So, consider completing the following tasks before the moving truck pulls up in front of your home.

Painting. A fresh coat of paint can instantly update a room and it’s common to buy a home knowing you will need to paint several rooms or even the entire house. Painting is best to be completed while every wall is empty and there is no anxiety about getting paint on furniture or carpet and rugs.

Change the locks – or even the doors. You never know how many people have the keys to your home. Change the locks ASAP, or even change the door itself. Updated entry doors are relatively inexpensive, and they also offer one of the best returns on investment of any home improvement.

Flooring updates. Redoing a floor is always easier when the floor is empty. Whether you’re choosing to redo wood floors or lay tile before you move in, tackling this process now also allows you to keep wood and tile dust off of furniture.

Roof Repairs. Roof repairs are a must. If the home inspection revealed any damage to the roof, make the necessary repairs before moving in. Chose a roofing contractor like Premo Roofing that has experience with the type of roofing system your home requires.

Removing popcorn ceilings. We’re not sure if anyone ever liked these types of ceilings, but they are common in older homes. Popcorn ceilings are easy to remove, but very messy. Use a spray bottle to moisten an area, and then scrape the texture off with a towel. Clean up will be much easier if you complete this project before moving your furniture into the space.

Fix plumbing leaks. If left untreated, water leaks can do serious damage to your home and its contents. Some leaks may be obvious; others not so much. Leaks can also lead to secondary problems like rotting wood, mold and mildew. So it’s important to address plumbing issues before you move in.

Child and pet proofing. Make your new home a safe environment for your children and pets. Install gates for your stairs and locks on your cabinets, drawers and toilets. All electrical outlets within reach should be capped or replaced with tamper-resistant receptacles. These small additions can make your new home a safer place to live.

As difficult as it can be, sometimes delaying your move-in by a few weeds can save months of frustration in the long-term. So don’t wait, because the sooner your start, the sooner you can start your new life in your new home!