Moving into a new home is a thrilling adventure—new spaces, new neighbors, and a fresh start! But before you can fully settle in, there are a few important tasks to tackle.
Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with this handy checklist that breaks down everything you need to get done, step by step.
1. Mortgage Matters
Let’s start with the basics—your mortgage. Here’s what to keep an eye on:
- Confirm Your First Payment Date: Mark that date in your calendar and set up autopay if possible to avoid any mishaps. If you’re unsure about how to proceed, your loan provider can help point you in the right direction.
- Review Your Mortgage Statement: Make sure all the details are correct, including your interest rate, payment amount, and escrow balance.
- Understand Your Escrow Account: If your lender collects money for property taxes and insurance, know when these payments will be made and how much is in your escrow account.
2. Taxes and Insurance
Once the mortgage is squared away, it’s time to think about taxes and insurance:
- Confirm Your Homeowners Insurance Policy is Active: Make sure your new address is covered and that the policy is in line with your needs.
- File for Homestead Exemption (if applicable): This can save you a chunk of change on property taxes.
- Check Property Tax Deadlines: Know when your taxes are due and whether they’re being paid through your escrow account or directly by you.
- File for Property Tax Relief (if applicable): There’s a chance you may be eligible for some variation of property tax relief now that you’re a homeowner. These benefits are typically provided at the state level.
3. Homeowners Association (HOA) Payments
If you’re in a community with an HOA, don’t forget:
- Set Up Your HOA Payments: Whether it’s monthly or quarterly, get this on your calendar.
- Review HOA Rules: Get familiar with the dos and don’ts of your community to avoid any fines or surprises down the road.
4. Utility Setup
You don’t want to be left in the dark—literally! Here’s what to do:
- Transfer Utilities to Your Name: This includes electricity, water, gas, internet, and cable.
- Set Up Trash and Recycling Services: Don’t forget to find out the pickup schedule and how to handle bulky items.
- Update Your Mailing Address: Forward your mail and update your address with banks, subscriptions, and anywhere else that needs it.
5. Local Laws and Rules
Every neighborhood has its quirks. Get to know yours:
- Research Local Ordinances: Noise, parking, and pet regulations can vary widely—know what’s expected.
- Meet the Neighbors: They can be a great resource for understanding unwritten rules and local customs, while making a few fast friends.
- Check Out Community Resources: Libraries, parks, and local events can help you feel at home and connect you to your new neighborhood.
6. Decorating and Finding Contractors
Time to make your house a home:
- Prioritize Rooms: Focus on high-use areas like the kitchen and living room first.
- Find Trusted Contractors: Need a little help with painting or renovations? Ask for local recommendations or check online reviews.
- Shop for Furniture and Decor: Whether you’re starting fresh or mixing old with new, plan your space to reflect your style. Pro tip: Once you’ve identified the pieces you want to purchase, use painter’s tape to map where you’ll place them to have a better idea of how they’ll fit in your new space.
7. Schools, Grocery Stores, and Other Amenities
Get the lay of the land to make daily life easier:
- Locate Nearby Schools: Even if you don’t have kids, knowing where the schools are can help with traffic patterns and community events. And if you’re interested in raising a family, it doesn’t hurt to be proactive: For example, find out everything you can about your school district, including if it offers pre-K or other types of childcare. In some cases, spots are secured via a lottery, so you’ll want to make sure you don’t miss any key deadlines.
- Find Your Go-To Grocery Store: Scope out nearby stores for your daily essentials.
- Explore Local Services: From gyms to dry cleaners, it’s good to know where everything is.
8. Security and Safety
Your home is your sanctuary, so let’s make it secure:
- Change the Locks: It’s a good idea to replace all the locks, including the garage, to absolutely guarantee that you’re the only one with keys.
- Set Up a Security System: Whether it’s a full system or just a few cameras, adding security features can give you peace of mind. And depending on the system, you may be eligible for a discount on your home insurance policy.
- Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Make sure they’re functioning properly and replace the batteries if needed.
9. Maintenance and Upkeep
Stay ahead of potential issues with a little proactive maintenance:
- Inspect Your Home for Repairs: Check for leaks, cracks, or any other issues that need immediate attention.
- Schedule Regular Maintenance: This includes HVAC servicing, pest control, and gutter cleaning.
- Create a Seasonal Maintenance Checklist: Plan tasks like winterizing your home or prepping your garden for spring.
10. Legal and Financial Setup
Get your paperwork and finances in order:
- Set Up an Emergency Fund: Owning a home comes with unexpected expenses—plan for them.
- Update Your Will and Estate Plan: If you haven’t done this yet, now’s a great time to include your new property.
- Review Your Home Warranty: If your home came with a warranty, understand what’s covered and for how long.
Your New Home, Your New Start
Moving into a new home is a mix of excitement and a never-ending to-do list. But with this checklist, you’re well on your way to settling in smoothly. And when it comes to your mortgage, Contour Mortgage is here to take the stress off your shoulders, giving you the peace of mind to focus on making your new house a home. Happy moving!
Get Settled with Confidence—Talk to Contour Today!