Buying a home is an exciting but busy process, and once you get the keys, knowing your next steps is essential.
This Redfin article explains the important things to do after you buy a home and get the keys, from securing your home to setting up utility bills and planning maintenance. Whether you’re buying a home in Miami, Florida, Portland, Oregon, or somewhere in between, here’s how to make a smooth transition to homeownership.
1. Secure your home
One of the first things you do after purchasing a home is to make sure your home is secure by changing the locks and updating your garage and security codes. You never know who might still have access: the previous owner, a contractor, or even a neighbor. If you take this step right away, you’ll be the only one who feels safe entering.
2. Create the necessary documents
One of the most important things to do after purchasing a home is handling post-closing paperwork.
Change your address: Contact the USPS, DMV, IRS, bank, employer, and insurance company to update your address within the first week. Forward your emails: Set up email forwarding so you don’t lose important documents during your move. Update your voter registration: Make sure your registration reflects your new address to avoid any issues during the election. Store closing documents: Organize and store all closing documents in a secure location, such as a fireproof safe or digital backup. You’ll need it later for taxes or a sale. These documents will also be required if you refinance your mortgage later.
3. Double-check your homeowner’s insurance.
Review your homeowner’s insurance after purchasing a home to make sure your coverage reflects your new property. Find out the level of protection, deductibles, and additional coverage you need based on your home’s location, features, and risks.
4. Purchase or check your home warranty
A home warranty can provide additional financial protection by covering repairs to major systems and appliances. Although optional, it’s one of the smart tips for first-time homeowners to reduce unexpected costs. If your purchase includes a warranty, please review the details carefully to understand what the warranty covers.
5. Connect utilities
Setting utility charges after purchasing a home is essential for a smooth move. To avoid confusion, please transfer or activate your services before your move-in date.
Be sure to perform the following settings.
Water and sewage Gas Electricity Garbage and recycling services
Research providers in advance to find the best option for your area.
6. Check safety alarms
Test all home safety alarms, including smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, as soon as you move in. Replace batteries and units as necessary to ensure your home is fully protected from health hazards.
7. Set up TV, Internet, and phone service
Arrange for internet and home service setup early so you can connect quickly. Depending on your provider, schedule the installation or choose self-install.
8. Locate circuit breakers and emergency shutoff devices
Locate the circuit breaker box and major emergency shutoff devices (including water mains). If the circuit is not labeled, label it clearly. Also, make sure you have access to the appliance documentation to facilitate troubleshooting and maintenance.
9. Use inspection reports as a maintenance to-do list
Refer back to the home inspection report and make a list of any future repairs, updates, or maintenance work. Prioritize these tasks based on urgency and focus on addressing issues that may lead to problems later. This way, you can address your most pressing concerns first, protect your new investment, and avoid unexpected expenses.
10. Test the water
It’s a good idea to have your water tested, especially if you use a private well or have moved to an older home. Contaminants such as lead, bacteria, and even pesticides can get into your tap water and can damage your pipes and cause health problems. To protect your health and your home, have your water tested at an accredited lab, which you can find using Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) resources.
11. Conducting an energy audit
To better manage your usage and improve efficiency, consider scheduling an energy audit through your utility company or an independent auditor. This helps assess your home’s overall energy performance, including your HVAC system, insulation, and room-by-room consumption. Electricity is one of the most expensive utilities, so an energy audit can help reduce your total monthly housing costs.
12. Replace the HVAC filter
It’s wise to replace your HVAC filter as soon as you move in, especially since there’s no way to know if the previous owner has continued to maintain it. This prevents poor air quality and system damage.
13. Create a regular maintenance schedule
Spread out maintenance tasks like changing air filters, cleaning drains, and pressure washing over time instead of doing them all at once. Create a regular home maintenance checklist to stay on top of routine maintenance and protect the long-term value of your home.
14. Create an emergency plan
Having a home emergency plan will help you prepare for unexpected events such as fire or natural disasters. Include evacuation routes, emergency contacts, and essential supplies.
15. Take safety precautions for children and pets
If you have small children or pets, be sure to keep your new home baby- and pet-proof for the safety of their companions. For example, be sure to install safety gates, use outlet covers, and secure heavy furniture.
16. Introduce yourself to your neighbors
If you want to foster a sense of community, introduce yourself to your neighbors after purchasing your new home. These connections can not only create a friendly atmosphere in the neighborhood, but also a sense of security if needed in an emergency.
Things to do after buying a home: Checklist for the first week and first month
The first week after buying a house
Change locks and secure your home Set up utilities (water, electricity, gas, trash) Locate emergency shut-offs (water valves, circuit breakers) Test safety alarms (smoke and carbon monoxide detectors) Update USPS, bank, and employer addresses Set up internet and home services Keep closing documents in a safe place
first month after buying a house
Set a budget and keep track of your expenses for your new home Prepare for your first mortgage payment Check your homeowners insurance coverage Schedule home maintenance work (HVAC, gutters, etc.) Plan home improvements and repairs Create a home maintenance schedule Meet your neighbors and get to know the area
What to do after buying a home Frequently asked questions
Do I need to hire a locksmith to secure my home?
No, you don’t need to hire a locksmith to secure your home. Many homeowners choose to change or rekey locks themselves using DIY kits. DIY kits are usually more affordable and fairly easy to install. That said, if you want everything done quickly, have multiple locks to update, or are upgrading to a higher security or smart lock system, it’s worth hiring a locksmith.
When should I update my address? Who should I notify?
Be sure to update your address within one week of your move, and be sure to notify important authorities such as the USPS, DMV, IRS, bank, credit card company, insurance company, and employer of this update.
Do I need both homeowners insurance and home warranty?
Homeowners insurance and home warranties have different coverages, so having both can provide you with broader protection. Homeowners insurance is typically required by lenders and covers major risks such as fire, theft, and certain natural disasters. A home warranty, on the other hand, is optional and can help cover the cost of repairing or replacing appliances, HVAC systems, plumbing, etc. due to normal wear and tear.
What should a home emergency plan include?
A map of your home Evacuation routes (at least two in each room) Location of emergency equipment (know where to find fire extinguishers, first aid kits, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and flashlights) Outdoor meeting points for residents List of emergency contacts
When is the first mortgage payment due after closing?
The first mortgage payment is usually due on the first day of the second month after closing.
What documents should I keep after purchasing a home?
Keep your disclosure documents, mortgage documents, and deeds in a safe and easily accessible place.
