I've done hundreds of move-in handyman visits across DC, Arlington, Alexandria, and the Maryland suburbs. Here's what I check on every single one — and what new homeowners are almost always surprised to find.
Before You Unpack
- →Test every door — does it latch, lock, and swing without sticking? More than half need adjustment after the first winter
- →Check for hollow-sounding floor tiles or loose tiles in bathrooms and kitchen — water damage often hides under the previous owner's last "quick fix"
- →Run the garbage disposal and all faucets — look under sinks while they run
- →Check grout lines in showers and tubs for cracks — this is how water gets in
First Month Priorities
- →Caulk around tubs, showers, and window sills if the existing caulk is cracked or pulling away
- →If there's carpet in bedrooms, lift a corner — you may have hardwood underneath worth refinishing
- →Check attic access if accessible — look for signs of moisture or previous leaks
- →Test all GFCIs in bathrooms, kitchen, and garage — press and reset each one
Good First Projects
Fresh paint throughout the interior before furniture goes in is the single highest-impact thing most new homeowners can do. Refinishing original hardwood floors is a close second. Both are far easier to do before you're living in the space.
Just moved in or closing soon? I do full move-in handyman days across DC Metro.