You signed the papers, grabbed the keys, and moved the boxes into your new Arizona home, all under the blazing summer sun. Time for tacos! But seriously, before you sink into that patio chair with a glass of something cold, there are a few important things you should take care of to make the most of your new investment and ensure your first few months go smoothly.
Maybe you’re a converted snowbird, or you’ve just decided you really love the desert, but moving to Arizona in June means you’re transition is taking place in one of the busiest real estate months of the year. High temps, tight timelines, coming monsoons, and intense demand all define the Arizona real estate market. However, while the big stuff is most likely finalized (securing a mortgage, unpacking boxes), many new homeowners overlook some critical post-move tasks.
It’s time to take a look at some important things to do to make the most of your Arizona summer now that you’ve crossed the threshold.
Prioritize Home Maintenance
Have you ever sat in an oven? Well, that’s what an Arizona summer can feel like. Intense dry heat can make you dehydrated in no time. Make sure to carry water around with you and start crossing items off your summer maintenance to-do checklist. From HVAC inspections to sun damage prevention, your home needs protection from the unique climate as much as you do.
Seasonal advice like this guide to managing seasonal rental challenges is invaluable even if you’re not renting. Arizona’s high temperatures, sudden monsoons, and dust storms require new homeowners to think ahead because these weather events are right around the corner. Regularly checking seals on doors and windows, inspecting your roof, and ensuring your HVAC system is in top shape are crucial checks because no one wants to find out the AC is broken in the middle of July.
Meet the Neighbors and the HOA
Settling into a new community doesn’t stop at the front door. If your home is part of a homeowner’s association (HOA), now is the time to get familiar with the rules, fees, and benefits. These groups often hold events and offer resources to help newcomers integrate into their new neighborhoods.
Building strong neighborhood bonds begins with involvement and communication, according to this article on building community through HOAs. Reaching out to board members, joining a community Facebook group, or attending a summer meet-and-greet are all ways to get out there and be part of the community. The more plugged in you are, the better equipped you’ll be to enjoy (and protect) your new investment.
Update Important Documents
It may be as enticing as socializing, but making sure your important documents are up to date is just as essential to your longevity. Make sure you know where your local DMV, USPS, and bank branch are located, so you can update addresses. Sure, most services can be done electronically nowadays, but going in person can help build community and get to know the people in that community.
In fact, ConsumerAffairs notes that failing to update your address with Arizona state agencies in a timely manner can result in missed mail, compliance issues, and even fines, especially when it comes to your driver’s license and vehicle registration.
Don’t forget to update subscriptions, utility bills, and important tax documents to avoid unnecessary headaches down the line. Similarly, updating your homeowner’s insurance and emergency contact information is important as well. Summer in Arizona comes with wildfire risk, flash floods, and heat waves. You’ll want to make sure your contact details are current in case of an emergency.
Take Advantage of Local Services
While you’re out and about, updating your important information, it’s a great time to explore what else your local area has to offer in terms of utilities, lawn care, recycling services, and pest control. Arizona has unique needs in these departments, especially in the hotter months.
Using local moving services that are familiar with Arizona homes and seasonal needs, like A to B Moving, can make moving in easier with loading, unloading, and even packing supplies if you’re still digging through boxes.
Create a Personalized Emergency Kit
If you haven’t done so already, building an emergency kit tailored to Arizona life, this is a great time to do so. Here are a few things that it should include:
- Bottled water
- Flashlights and batteries
- First aid supplies
- Copies of important documents
- Dust masks and sunscreen
- A list of emergency contacts
The intense summer heat can cause power outages and fast-developing weather events, so having a kit ready gives you peace of mind. Another great tip is to have a version of this kit for your car. Getting stuck in a thunderstorm and flash flood is all too real in Arizona. Stay alert and stay safe.
Watch Out for Wildlife
Living in Arizona comes with a few natural surprises, including the occasional snake. As new construction and development expand into previously wild areas, encounters with local wildlife become more common, especially in summer. June is an active season for rattlesnakes, scorpions, and other desert dwellers.
To stay safe, learn how to identify local species, keep your yard clean and free of clutter, and seal any small openings around your home. Always check outdoor shoes and gear before putting them on, and educate children and pets on avoiding unknown critters. If you’re concerned, many pest control services in Arizona offer wildlife management options to keep your new home safe and peaceful.
Final Thought: Summer is Just the Beginning
Moving in June puts you on the frontlines of Arizona homeownership. From preparing for the sun to plugging into your neighborhood, you’re setting the tone for years to come. It’s not just about keeping your AC running; it’s about building a life and a community. With a little planning and some community connection, your Arizona home can be the start of something great.
And if you ever need help beyond moving day. Whether it’s a second round of boxes, rearranging that oversized sectional, or getting advice from locals who know the desert terrain, A to B Moving has the experience to help you settle in with confidence.
So go ahead and put on your swimsuit or grab your golf bag, but don’t forget to check the thermostat first.
