You've closed on your new home -- now what?

Post-Closing Checklist for New Homeowners

It's all happening! Now that the home buying formalities are complete, it's time to tackle some post-closing tasks to get settled in your new place. Here's a checklist to guide you:

Securing Important Documents:

• Store Closing Documents Safely: Keep your closing documents, including loan agreements, the deed, title insurance policy, and home inspection report, in a secure location like a fireproof safe deposit box. Pro-tip: keep a digital version on file as well! 

Change of Address:

• Update Your Address with USPS: File a change of address form with the United States Postal Service (USPS) to ensure you receive important mail at your new home.
• Tell Everyone Else: Be sure to update your address with other important entities like:
  • Banks and credit card companies
  • Insurance providers (home, auto, health)
  • Utility companies (electricity, gas, water, trash)
  • Subscription services (magazines, newspapers)
  • Government agencies (DMV, IRS)
  • Friends and family

Home Setup and Security:

• Schedule Utility Transfers: Contact your preferred utility companies (electricity, gas, water, trash) to establish service at your new address. Ask about deposits or connection fees.
• Change the Locks: Consider having all the exterior doors re-keyed by a professional locksmith for better security.
• Deep Clean (Optional): While the house may be clean, you might prefer a professional deep clean before moving in.
• Review Home Warranty: Familiarize yourself with the terms of your home warranty, which outlines coverage for repairs and any limitations.
• Review Appliance and Furniture Warranties: Make sure you register anything you buy with their respective warranty companies! 

Texas Specific: 

• Apply for Homestead Exemption: Texas offers a homestead exemption that can significantly reduce your property taxes. Review the deadline and eligibility requirements set by your county appraisal district https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/property-tax/exemptions/.

Settling In:

• Schedule Movers (Optional): If you're hiring movers, confirm the date, time, and ensure clear access for them on moving day. Pro tip: confirm with your HOA to see if there are any regulations about moving day! 
• Update Important Documents: Update your driver's license, car registration, and voter registration with your new address.
• Home Maintenance Plan: Create a basic home maintenance plan to ensure you're properly caring for your new property.
• Get to Know your Home: make sure you know where your breaker box, water main shutoff, and sprinkler heads are! 
• HOA and Neighborhood Associations: Make sure you have the HOA rules and guidelines at your fingertips so you don't get in trouble! 

Additional Tips:

• Forward Mail: Request mail forwarding from the USPS for a smooth transition.
• Test Detectors: Test smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and any other safety alarms in the house.
• Schedule Maintenance (Optional): Consider scheduling preventative maintenance for appliances or HVAC systems.

Enjoy your new home! You did it.