Things You Should Do After You Close on Your Brand-New Home
Closing day is a huge milestone—congratulations on your brand-new home! 🎉 While the keys may be in your hand, there are a few important steps to take after closing to help you settle in, protect your investment, and start enjoying your new space with confidence.
Here’s a helpful checklist of things you should do after you close on your new home.
1. Change the Locks and Secure Your Home
Even though your home is brand new, it’s always smart to change or rekey the locks after closing. This ensures you have complete control over who has access to your home from day one.
While you’re at it, consider:
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Updating garage door codes
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Setting up a smart lock or security system
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Testing smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms
2. Set Up Utilities and Services
Make sure all utilities are transferred and activated in your name. This includes:
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Electricity
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Water and sewer
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Gas
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Internet and cable
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Trash and recycling services
Scheduling these things right away helps ensure a smooth move-in without interruptions.
3. Review Your Warranty Information
One of the perks of a brand-new home is having warranties in place. Take time to:
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Review your builder’s warranty coverage
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Understand what’s covered and for how long
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Save important contact information for future reference
Knowing how and when to submit warranty requests will give you peace of mind.
4. Document Your Home’s Condition
Before fully moving in, take photos and videos of your home. This documentation can be helpful for:
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Warranty claims
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Insurance purposes
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Keeping records of finishes and features
Store these files in a safe digital location for easy access later.
5. Get Familiar With Your Home Systems
Spend time learning how your home operates. This includes:
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HVAC system and thermostat settings
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Water shut-off valves
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Electrical panel
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Appliances and smart home features
Understanding these systems early will help prevent issues and make maintenance easier.
6. Update Your Address and Important Accounts
Don’t forget to update your address with:
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USPS
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Banks and credit cards
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Insurance providers
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Employers
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Subscription services
Handling this early helps avoid missed mail or billing issues.
7. Personalize Your Space
Now comes the fun part—making your home your own! Consider:
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Painting accent walls
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Installing window treatments
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Adding organization systems to closets and pantries
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Bringing in décor that reflects your style
Personal touches turn a new house into a true home.
8. Meet Your Community
Take time to explore your neighborhood and get connected:
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Introduce yourself to neighbors
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Learn community guidelines or amenities
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Discover nearby shops, parks, and restaurants
Building relationships helps you feel at home even faster.
9. Create a Maintenance Routine
Protect your investment by setting up a simple maintenance plan:
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Change HVAC filters regularly
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Keep gutters clear
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Check smoke detector batteries
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Schedule seasonal system checks
