Have you bought your first home in Portugal? The essential checklist for new owners

Have you bought your first home in Portugal? The Essential Checklist for New Owners

Buying one's first home in Portugal is an exciting milestone in anyone's life. Whether as a permanent residence, holiday home or investment, this step represents a significant achievement. However, after the euphoria of the purchase, the need arises to organize and prepare the new home for a comfortable and trouble-free stay. To help new homeowners, we've compiled an essential checklist to ensure the transition to their new home is smooth and enjoyable.

1. Moving and Decorating: After the legal formalities, it's time to plan for the move. Hire a moving company or organize the necessary means to transport your belongings to the new home. Consider doing a review of your furniture and belongings to determine what needs to be renovated or replaced. Plan the décor according to your personal style and make a list of the items you will need to create a cozy atmosphere.

2. Essential Services: Ensure that essential services such as electricity, water, gas, and internet are up and running in the new home. Contact the providers to transfer the accounts to your name and avoid unwanted interruptions.

3. Preventive Maintenance: Conduct a thorough inspection of the home to identify potential maintenance issues. Check plumbing, heating and cooling systems, appliances, and physical structures. Preventative maintenance can help prevent future problems and save you time and money in the long run.

4. Safety: Prioritize the safety of your new home. Install security systems such as alarms, reinforced locks, and adequate outdoor lighting. Ensure that windows and doors are well protected. Knowing your neighbors and finding out about neighborhood safety is also a smart move.

5. Update Records: Update your personal records with the new address. This includes changing the address on official documents, such as a citizen card, driver's license, social security, among others. Also notify the banks, companies and institutions with which you have your relationships.

6. Financial Organization: Reorganize your financial planning to accommodate the costs associated with the new home, such as mortgage, insurance, municipal taxes (IMI, urban waste collection fees, private security, among others if necessary) and maintenance expenses. Make sure you have a clear budget to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

7. Get to Know the Neighborhood: Explore your new neighborhood. Discover local amenities such as supermarkets, pharmacies, restaurants, and play areas. Getting to know your surroundings will help you integrate into the local community and feel more at home.

8. Set aside time to unwind: After moving and organizing, take some time to unwind and enjoy your new home. Create an environment that makes you feel comfortable and relaxed, and take time to adjust to the new routine.

Buying your first home in Portugal is an exciting and rewarding milestone. With this essential checklist, new owners can face this new stage with confidence, ensuring that the transition to their new home is smooth and enjoyable. Enjoy every moment in your new home and create precious memories that will last for years to come. Ask a CUB Real Estate agent how the relocation service works and what are the advantages and costs of your subscription.