What You Should Do Once You've Closed on a Home Purchase

Congratulations on closing on your new home! Now that you've signed the papers and received the keys, you might be wondering what to do after closing on a house. This exciting milestone marks the beginning of a new chapter in your life, filled with opportunities to make your new space truly yours. From essential tasks like changing locks to creative projects like choosing window treatments, there's a lot to consider as you settle into your new abode.

As you embark on this journey of homeownership, it's important to prioritize your to-do list. You'll want to take care of practical matters such as updating your mailing address and servicing your HVAC system, while also planning for personal touches like painting walls or landscaping. Whether you're focused on deep cleaning your new carpets or testing smoke detectors, each step you take helps transform your house into a home. Let's explore the first things to do after closing on a house, ensuring you start this new adventure on the right foot.

Secure Your New Property

Now that you've closed on your new home, it's time to make sure it's safe and secure. Taking these steps will help you protect your investment and give you peace of mind as you settle into your new space.

Change the Locks

The first thing you should do when getting ready to move in is change the locks, garage codes, and access to any other entry points. This is a crucial step to ensure your safety and privacy. As Lior Rachmany, CEO of Dumbo Moving and Storage in Brooklyn, New York, recommends, "You don't want the previous homeowners to have the ability to enter your home" . It's best to take care of these security-related tasks before you move in.

Don't forget about other electronic systems in your home. If your property comes with an alarm system, garage opener, or any other electronic access points, ask for the instruction manuals and codes at the closing. Once you have this information, change the codes to new configurations that only you will know .

Install a Security System

A reliable security system is an essential investment for your new home. Professional monitoring keeps your property safe at all times, which is especially important for new construction as it can draw the attention of criminals . When choosing a security system, consider the following factors:

1. Smart home integration: If you've planned for home automation capabilities, ensure your security system works well with your chosen smart ecosystem .
2. Professional monitoring: Look for systems that offer 24/7 monitoring services. This ensures someone is always watching out for you, even when you're not home .
3. Visible deterrents: While alarm systems are crucial, don't underestimate the power of visible security measures. Simple additions like a security camera at your entryway or a motion sensor that triggers a floodlight can help protect your home from invasion .

Remember, a security system is only effective if you use it properly. Make sure to arm it regularly and pay the monitoring fee to get the full benefit of your investment .

Update Home Insurance

Once you've secured your property with new locks and a security system, it's time to update your home insurance. This step is often overlooked but is crucial to protecting your new investment.

When updating your policy, consider the following:

1. Coverage for new security features: Inform your insurance provider about the new security measures you've implemented. Many insurance companies offer discounts for homes with security systems, which could lead to lower premiums.
2. Reassess your coverage: Your new home might have different needs compared to your previous residence. Make sure your policy covers the full value of your new property and its contents.
3. Additional protection: Consider adding extra coverage for specific valuables or potential risks unique to your new location.

By taking these steps to secure your new property, you're not just protecting your investment – you're creating a safe haven for you and your family. Remember, the goal is to make your new house feel like home, and feeling secure is a big part of that. So take the time to change those locks, set up a reliable security system, and update your insurance. Your future self will thank you for the peace of mind these actions bring.

Set Up Essential Services

Now that you've secured your new property, it's time to set up the essential services that will make your house a comfortable and functional home. This process involves transferring utilities, arranging for internet and cable services, and scheduling waste management. Let's dive into each of these important tasks.

Transfer Utilities

One of the first things to do after closing on a house is to set up your utilities. These include electricity, gas, water, and sewer services . To get started, research the various providers in your area. You can do this online or by speaking to your real estate agent, landlord, or the previous homeowner. In most cases, you'll find that there's only one provider option for these public utilities .

If you're moving within the same city or service area and already have an account with the local utility company, they can often transfer your service to your new home. Just let them know the service end date at your old home and the start date at the new one .

For new customers, you'll need to contact the local utility company. You may be able to set up services online, but if you have questions, it's best to call or visit their office . They'll let you know what information they need from you to connect services.

It's advisable to start this process about three weeks before you move . When scheduling the transfer or setup of utilities, keep these points in mind:

1. Provide your new address and the exact date you need service to start .
2. Be prepared for a potential credit check or security deposit requirement .
3. Allow at least a few days' notice for the utility company to turn on services, especially during busy periods like the beginning or end of the month .

Arrange Internet and Cable

In today's connected world, setting up internet and cable services is just as crucial as other utilities. Unlike public utilities, you'll likely have multiple choices for these services .

To set up new internet or cable service:

1. Visit the website of your chosen provider or call them directly .
2. Provide your new address and the date you need service to start .
3. Be prepared to provide payment information, typically in the form of a credit card or checking account and routing number .
4. Schedule an installation appointment if necessary. Unlike basic utilities, internet and cable installers may need access to your home .

Remember, if you're renting, your landlord may require proof that you've arranged for utilities, including internet and cable. Check how far in advance you need to provide this information .

Schedule Waste Management

Don't forget about trash collection when setting up your essential services. In some areas, this is considered a utility and may be included with other public services .

To set up waste management:

1. Check with your local municipality or the previous homeowner to find out who provides trash collection in your area.
2. Contact the provider to set up service, providing your new address and desired start date.
3. Inquire about recycling services and any specific guidelines for waste disposal in your new neighborhood.

After setting up all your utilities, it's crucial to verify that everything is working correctly. On move-in day, check that you can turn on lights, use the stove, flush toilets, and connect to the internet . For trash pickup, you'll need to wait until the first collection day to confirm, but you should know if you're properly set up before the end of the week .

If any utilities aren't functioning as expected, contact the provider immediately. They can usually expedite service if the issue is due to an error on their end .

Remember, setting up these essential services is a key step in making your new house feel like home. By taking care of these tasks promptly and efficiently, you'll ensure a smooth transition into your new living space.

Update Your Address

After closing on your new home, updating your address is a crucial step to ensure you don't miss any important mail or notifications. This process involves more than just informing the post office. Let's break it down into manageable steps.

USPS Change of Address

The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers a simple way to redirect your mail to your new address. You can submit a change of address request online or in person at your local post office . If you choose the online option, there's a small identity verification fee of $1.10 . It's best to submit this request about two weeks before your move to ensure a smooth transition.

When you submit your change of address, you'll have a few options:

1. Permanent change: For when you're moving long-term.
2. Temporary change: If you're relocating for 15 days up to 1 year.
3. Individual, family, or business move: Choose based on your situation .

After submitting your request, USPS will send you a Move Validation Letter to your old address and a Welcome Kit to your new address. The Welcome Kit includes a Customer Notification Letter with a 16-digit Confirmation Code, which you'll need if you want to modify or cancel your request later .

Remember, while USPS will forward your mail, this service typically lasts for six months to a year . It's crucial to update your address directly with important contacts during this time.

Notify Important Contacts

To ensure a smooth transition, create a checklist of all the organizations and individuals you need to notify about your address change. Here are some key contacts to update:

1. Financial institutions: Banks, credit card companies, investment services, and loan issuers .
2. Insurance providers: Health, dental, life, car, and homeowners/renters insurance .
3. Utility companies: Gas, electricity, water, internet, cable, and phone providers .
4. Healthcare providers: Doctors, dentists, and veterinarians .
5. Subscription services: Magazines, streaming services, and subscription boxes .
6. Online accounts: Update your address on retail websites and payment services like PayPal and Venmo .
7. Employer: Ensure your workplace has your current address on file .

Update Government Records

Several government agencies need to be informed about your move:

1. Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV): In most states, you're required to update your address with the DMV within 30 days of moving, even if it's within the same city . This affects your driver's license, ID card, vehicle registration, and title .
2. Internal Revenue Service (IRS): Update your address with the IRS to ensure you receive important tax documents. You can do this by phone, letter, or by filing Form 8822 .
3. Social Security Administration: If you receive any benefits, update your address to continue receiving payments. You can do this online using their free form .
4. Voter Registration: While not strictly required, updating your voter registration can save you future hassle. Each state has its own requirements, so check with your local election office .

By systematically working through these steps, you'll ensure that your mail and important documents find their way to your new home. Remember, it's best to start this process as soon as possible after closing on your house to avoid any gaps in communication or service.

Clean and Inspect Your New Home

Moving into a new home is an exciting adventure, but before you start unpacking, it's crucial to give your new space a thorough cleaning and inspection. This process will help you start fresh and identify any potential issues that need attention. Let's break down the essential steps to ensure your new home is clean, safe, and ready for you to settle in.

Deep Clean the Entire House

Starting with a clean slate is the best way to begin your journey in your new home. It's recommended to clean before moving in your belongings, as it's much easier to clean an empty space . If you're short on time, consider hiring a move-in cleaning service to handle this task for you .

If you're tackling the cleaning yourself, here's a suggested order of operations:

1. Begin with the refrigerator, ensuring you have a clean space to store your food .
2. Move on to the rest of the kitchen, cleaning from top to bottom .
3. Next, thoroughly clean and disinfect the bathrooms .
4. Clean the remaining rooms, working from top to bottom and left to right .
5. Finally, focus on the floors. Sweep or vacuum first, then mop .

For carpeted areas, consider hiring a professional to steam clean them before you move in . If that's not possible, give them a thorough vacuuming .

When cleaning wood floors, use a mild soap like Murphy Oil Soap to remove dirt and give them a polished shine . For tile, linoleum, stone, and concrete floors, sweep or vacuum first, then mop with an appropriate cleaning solution .

Conduct a Thorough Inspection

While cleaning, you'll have the perfect opportunity to inspect your new home closely. This inspection can help you identify any areas that need repair or replacement . Pay attention to:

1. Electrical systems: Check for any frayed wires or other potential fire hazards .
2. Plumbing: Look for any signs of leaks or potential backups .
3. Heating and cooling systems: These should be inspected by a professional .
4. Appliances: Test all major appliances to ensure they're functioning properly .
5. Safety devices: Test smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and ground-fault circuit interrupters .

Create a Maintenance Schedule

Once you've cleaned and inspected your new home, it's time to create a maintenance schedule. Regular maintenance can prevent breakdowns, save money, and keep your home in prime condition .

A comprehensive home maintenance checklist should include:

1. Monthly tasks: Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, check fire extinguishers, and inspect electrical cords for wear .
2. Seasonal tasks: Have your heating system inspected before winter, clean your fireplace and flues, and tune up major appliances before the holidays .
3. Annual tasks: Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, clean carpets, vacuum dryer vents, and check water heaters for leaks .

Remember, some tasks may require professional help. Don't hesitate to call in experts for jobs that are beyond your skill level or for more complicated projects .

By following these steps - deep cleaning, thorough inspection, and creating a maintenance schedule - you're setting yourself up for success in your new home. Not only will you start fresh in a clean environment, but you'll also be proactive in maintaining your home's systems and value for years to come.

Familiarize Yourself with the Property

Now that you've closed on your new home, it's time to get to know it inside and out. Familiarizing yourself with your property is crucial for maintaining a healthy living space and preventing potential issues. Let's explore the key areas you should focus on.

Locate Main Shutoffs

One of the first things you should do is locate the main water shutoff valve. This knowledge is invaluable during emergencies or when you need to perform repairs. The valve's location can vary depending on your home's construction and climate . Common spots include:

1. The basement, usually near where the main water line enters the house
2. The crawl space
3. Near the water heater in the mechanical room
4. On an exterior wall (in warmer climates)
5. Underground in the yard (look for an access panel)

To turn off the water, you'll typically encounter one of two types of valves:

• Ball valve: Has a straight handle that you turn perpendicular to the pipe to shut off
• Gate valve: Features a round handle that you turn clockwise to close

It's also important to locate your electrical panel. Knowing where to find it can save precious time during power issues or when you need to perform electrical work .

Review Home Systems

Getting familiar with your home's systems is crucial for maintaining a healthy living environment. Start by reviewing your home inspection report, if available. It's an invaluable tool that provides insights into your property's condition and potential maintenance needs .

Pay special attention to these areas:

1. Basement or crawl space: Check for signs of moisture, musty smells, or structural issues .
2. Attic: Inspect for proper insulation and ventilation.
3. HVAC system: Understand its operation and maintenance requirements.
4. Plumbing: Familiarize yourself with the layout and any specific quirks.

Consider creating a home binder with all this information, including maintenance schedules and important contacts. This organized approach will help you stay on top of your home's needs .

Explore the Neighborhood

Familiarizing yourself with your new surroundings is just as important as knowing your home's interior. Take time to explore your neighborhood and discover what makes it special . Here are some ways to do that:

1. Go for walks: It's a great way to de-stress after moving and visualize your surroundings .
2. Meet your neighbors: They can provide valuable insights about the area and potentially hidden gems .
3. Try local businesses: Supporting local shops and restaurants helps you understand the community's character .
4. Join local clubs or volunteer: This can help you meet people and invest in your new community .

Remember, the more familiar you become with your home and neighborhood, the more comfortable and confident you'll feel in your new environment. Take your time to explore, ask questions, and get to know your new space. It's an exciting journey that will help you truly make your house a home.

Organize Your Paperwork

Now that you've closed on your new home, it's time to get your paperwork in order. A well-organized system for your documents will save you time and stress in the long run. Let's explore how to file your closing documents, create a home inventory, and set up an efficient filing system.

File Closing Documents

After closing on your house, it's crucial to keep all the documents you signed during the process. These papers serve as a backup and may be needed for future reference. Experts recommend holding onto these documents for several years, even after you eventually sell the home .

Some essential closing documents to retain include:

1. Purchase agreement
2. Addendums
3. Disclosures and repair requests
4. Escrow information
5. Inspection reports
6. Closing statement

To keep these important papers safe, store them in a dry, secure location. Many homeowners opt for a fire-safe box in their home or a safety deposit box at their bank .

Create a Home Inventory

Creating a home inventory is an invaluable step in protecting your belongings and simplifying potential insurance claims. While it might seem daunting, breaking the process down into manageable steps can make it easier .

Here's a simple guide to creating your home inventory:

1. Start small: Begin with a confined space like a closet to avoid feeling overwhelmed .
2. Document recent purchases: If even the closet seems too much, focus on your most recent acquisitions .
3. Include basic details: For each item, note a brief description, the price, and any identifying characteristics like make, model, or product number .
4. Take photos or videos: Use your phone or digital camera to capture images of each item. Consider recording a video as you detail your belongings .
5. Record serial numbers: These are crucial for identification and insurance claims .
6. Categorize your belongings: Group similar items together to simplify your inventory .
7. Store receipts: Keep sales receipts, purchase orders, and appraisals for high-value items .
8. Update regularly: Set reminders to update your inventory as you acquire new items .

Remember to include often-overlooked items like electronics, items in storage, furnishings, phones, musical instruments, and appliances in your inventory .

Set Up a Filing System

An efficient filing system is key to keeping your paperwork organized and easily accessible. Here's how to create a filing structure that works for you:

1. Create broad categories: Start with general groupings like business, personal, finances, medical, travel, home, auto, and family .
2. Sort papers into these categories: Don't spend too much time studying each document; just group like with like .
3. Organize into subcategories: Break down each broad category further. For example, under "Business," you might have folders for income, tax papers, important documents, receipts, and loans .
4. Use consistent systems: Apply the same organizational structure to both physical and digital documents for ease of use .
5. Declutter regularly: Not every paper needs to be kept. Be mindful about what you allow into your home or computer .
6. Set up an "Inbox": Have a designated spot for incoming papers that you'll sort later, but make sure to schedule time to go through it regularly .

Remember, your filing system should grow and change with you. Don't be afraid to refine it as you use it and learn what works best for you .

By organizing your paperwork effectively, you'll save time, reduce stress, and ensure that important documents are always at your fingertips when you need them.

Plan for Immediate Improvements

Now that you've settled into your new home, it's time to think about making it truly yours. Planning for immediate improvements can help you create a comfortable living space while potentially increasing your home's value. Let's explore how to prioritize necessary repairs, consider energy-efficient upgrades, and budget for future projects.

Prioritize Necessary Repairs

When you first move in, it's crucial to address any urgent repairs. Review your home inspection report carefully, as it can be a valuable resource for anticipating maintenance needs and potential problems . A good inspector will have picked up on issues that might have seemed insignificant at the time but could become more serious if left unattended.

Not all repairs are created equal, so it's important to prioritize based on urgency and potential impact. For example, a dripping pipe might require more immediate attention than a door coming off its hinges, as it could lead to major damage to your floors if left unchecked . Address issues quickly and proactively to prevent small problems from becoming larger, more expensive ones.

When considering which repairs to tackle first, think about building home equity and any risks to your health and safety. Even small issues like a malfunctioning smoke detector should be addressed promptly .

Consider Energy-Efficient Upgrades

Making energy-efficient improvements to your new home can lead to significant long-term savings on utility bills while reducing your environmental impact. Here are some upgrades to consider:

1. Air sealing and insulation: These improvements can boost your home's efficiency and comfort. You may be eligible for incentives through programs like Comfort Home, which offers at least $1,000 in incentives for certain upgrade packages .
2. Window and door replacements: Energy-efficient windows and doors can minimize air leakage and improve insulation. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) offers tax credits of up to 30% of the cost for new, energy-efficient exterior doors (capped at $250 per door) and windows (up to $600) .
3. Heat pump water heater: This upgrade can significantly cut home energy costs. IRA tax credits can cover up to $2,000 or 30% of the project cost, while NYS rebates offer an additional $700-$1,000 discount on average .
4. Solar panels: Powering your home with solar can reduce or even eliminate your electric bill. IRA tax credits can cover 30% of the project cost, and New York State offers additional incentives and financing options .

Budget for Future Projects

While it's tempting to tackle all improvements at once, it's important to be realistic about your budget and timeline. Here are some tips for budgeting future projects:

1. Prioritize projects based on necessity and available funds. It's okay to delay renovations in secondary living spaces like an underutilized basement or attic .
2. Consider saving for a few months before starting major renovations. Sometimes, a fresh coat of paint and new hardware can make your home livable while you build up your renovation fund .
3. Explore financing options for larger projects. If you've built up equity in your home, you might consider a cash-out refinance, home equity loan, or home equity line of credit (HELOC) .
4. Look into contractor installment plans for high-cost jobs. Many larger contractors offer payment arrangements that allow you to pay in installments rather than a lump sum .
5. Establish an emergency fund specifically for unexpected home repairs. Getting into the habit of regular maintenance and having a financial cushion can help you avoid stress in the long term .

Remember, home improvements are a journey, not a race. Take your time, plan carefully, and enjoy making your new house truly feel like home.

Conclusion

Closing on a new home marks the beginning of an exciting journey. From securing your property to setting up essential services, updating your address, and familiarizing yourself with your new surroundings, there's a lot to tackle. These initial steps have a significant impact on making your house truly feel like home. By taking care of these important tasks, you're setting the stage for a comfortable and secure living environment.

As you settle in, remember that homeownership is an ongoing process. Planning for immediate improvements, organizing your paperwork, and creating a maintenance schedule are crucial to preserving and enhancing your investment. While it might seem overwhelming at first, tackling these tasks one by one will help you build a strong foundation for your future in your new home. Enjoy this new chapter and the opportunity to create a space that reflects your personality and meets your needs.

‍