10 Essential Things to Do After Buying a House

Congratulations on becoming a homeowner! 🎉 Buying a home is an exciting milestone, but once you’ve closed on the property and gotten the keys in hand, there are still some crucial steps to take before you can fully settle in. Moving into a new space requires more than just unpacking boxes—you want to ensure that your home is safe, functional, and set up for success.

To help you transition smoothly, here are 10 important things you should do after buying a house.

1️⃣ Change the Locks 🔑
Security should be your **top priority** after moving in. You never know how many spare keys the previous owner might have handed out to neighbors, contractors, or family members. To protect yourself and your belongings, replace or rekey all exterior door locks. If your home has a keypad entry system or a smart lock, reset the codes immediately.

Consider upgrading to smart locks that allow you to control access remotely—giving you added security and convenience.

2️⃣ Set Up Utilities & WiFi 💡
Nobody wants to move into a dark, cold house with no internet! Make sure you set up electricity, water, gas, trash collection, and internet service as soon as possible. If you didn’t arrange for utilities to be transferred before closing, contact local providers to ensure they’re up and running.

Some utilities might require an in-person setup or an appointment, so scheduling ahead of time can prevent unnecessary delays.

3️⃣ Update Your Address 📬
To avoid missing important mail, update your address with:
✔️ The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) – They offer a mail forwarding service if needed.
✔️ Your bank and credit card companies
✔️ Employer & insurance providers
✔️ Online retailers (Amazon, subscription boxes, etc.)
✔️ DMV (for your driver’s license and vehicle registration)

This step is easy to forget, but it ensures that bills, important documents, and packages reach your new home without any issues.

4️⃣ Deep Clean & Pest Control 🧼
Even if the home **looks** clean, you never know what’s lurking behind cabinets, under appliances, or in the carpets. Before you unpack everything, take time to **deep clean every room, sanitize bathrooms, and steam clean carpets.**

Also, consider hiring a pest control service to inspect and treat your home for any unwanted critters. Even new or well-maintained homes can have hidden pest issues, so it’s best to start fresh.

5️⃣ Check Home Systems 🚨
To avoid unexpected issues, take time to test and inspect your home’s major systems, including:
✔️ Smoke & carbon monoxide detectors– Replace batteries and ensure they’re in working condition.
✔️ HVAC system– Change the air filters and schedule a maintenance check if necessary.
✔️ Plumbing– Look for leaks under sinks, check water pressure, and test all toilets.
✔️ Appliances – Run a test cycle on the dishwasher, washer, and dryer to make sure they work properly.

Catching small issues early can prevent bigger, costlier problems down the road.

6️⃣ Meet the Neighbors 👋
Introducing yourself to your neighbors might not seem urgent, but it’s a great way to build a sense of community. A simple “hi” and a friendly conversation can go a long way in creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Neighbors can also be a great resource for:
🏡 Local recommendations (plumbers, landscapers, restaurants)
📦 Keeping an eye on your home when you’re away
💡 Learning about HOA rules or community events

Building good relationships from the start can make your new neighborhood feel like home.

7️⃣ Secure Your Home 🔒
Feeling safe in your new home is essential. Consider installing:
✔️Security cameras– These can be placed at entry points for added protection.
✔️Outdoor motion-sensor lights– Great for deterring potential intruders.
✔️Smart home security systems– Many allow remote monitoring via your phone.

Taking these extra security measures will give you peace of mind, especially if you spend time away from home or travel frequently.

8️⃣ Plan for Home Maintenance 🛠
Owning a home comes with ongoing maintenance responsibilities. Instead of waiting for things to break, be proactive by:
✔️ Scheduling seasonal HVAC check-ups
✔️ Cleaning gutters and downspouts
✔️ Checking for roof damage or leaks
✔️ Sealing any window or door drafts

Create a home maintenance calendar to stay on top of small tasks before they turn into expensive repairs.

9️⃣ Locate Shut-Off Valves & Breaker Box
In an emergency, knowing where your water shut-off valve and electrical breaker box are can save you from major damage.

🚰 Main Water Shut-Off Valve– This stops all water flow to your home in case of a leak or burst pipe.
⚡ Breaker Box– If power goes out in part of your home, you’ll need to check or reset your circuit breakers.

Take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with these locations so you can act quickly when needed.

🔟 Make It Yours! 🎨
Now comes the fun part—personalizing your space!

🏡 Paint the walls– A fresh coat of paint can instantly transform a room.
🛋 Decorate– Hang pictures, add rugs, and choose furniture that makes your home feel cozy.
🌿 Enhance curb appeal– Simple landscaping, like adding flowers or updating your front door color, can make a big difference.

Turning your house into a home is one of the most rewarding parts of homeownership, so take your time and enjoy the process!

Final Thoughts
Moving into a new home is an exciting and sometimes overwhelming experience. By tackling these 10 essential tasks, you’ll ensure a smoother transition, increase your home’s security, and set yourself up for long-term success.

🏡 Welcome home!🏡