Have you just received the keys to your dream home? Start your new journey on the right foot with these nine things to do after buying a home and getting your keys.
Complete the necessary paperwork.
Within the first week of moving, you should tackle these post-move filings:
- Change your address through the USPS website and your local DMV. Notify the IRS, state tax agencies, banks, credit card providers, employers and insurance companies.
- Forward your mail through your old post office.
- Update your voter registration. You have until 15 to 30 days before voting to complete this.
- Make copies of your closing documents and securely store them and the original.
Review your homeowners’ insurance.
Typically, insurance companies are made aware of your new property and address. They are ready to offer coverage to protect your home.
However, homeowners should check with their insurance companies to guarantee the coverage aligns with the needs of their new home.
Secure your home.
Another one of the things to do after buying a home and getting your keys is to secure it. Consider changing the locks and garage codes. Check all access points to see if you will know who is coming and going on your property.
Set up safety measures.
Setting up safety measures is a good idea if you have kids or pets. For example, consider installing safety gates, using outlet covers, anchoring heavy furniture to the wall and securing electrical and window cords.
Connect your utilities.
Before you move, make sure the utilities at your previous residence are disconnected and arrange for activation at your new home. Utilities you may need to set up include water and sewer, gas, electricity and garbage.
Set up cable and internet services.
When choosing a provider for your cable and internet services, you may find you have options. Once you have selected a provider, you can schedule a technician to come handle the installation process.
Get familiar with your circuit box.
To avoid panic when blowing a fuse or losing power, identify the location of the emergency shut-offs, such as your main water line and circuit breaker box.
If the circuit box is unlabeled, add labels to your circuits corresponding to the room or appliance.
Conduct an energy audit.
Electricity is the priciest utility for homeowners. Request an audit from your utility company or hire an independent auditor to assess your home and analyze each room’s energy efficiency, energy consumption, HVAC system efficiency and insulation levels.
Use your inspection report as a to-do list.
Refer back to your home inspection report. Do you see any issues that need attention? Use this report to compile a to-do list of repairs or updates. Tasks you can expect may include cleaning dirty gutters, tending to leaky pipes, changing HVAC filters or resealing doors and windows.
From there, create a regular maintenance schedule for the upkeep of your home.
Summary
Now that we’ve shared some things to do after buying a home and getting your keys, are you ready to start your search? Contact Ryan Roberts! In the meantime, continue reading our blogs for more real estate tips and news.