The image features a pair of sneakers standing in front of a large question mark drawn in white chalk on a rough asphalt surface. It conveys a sense of uncertainty, decision-making, or curiosity.

Life After Closing: What New Homeowners Need to Know

You did it! You’ve signed the paperwork, gotten your keys, and officially become a homeowner. But now what?

Many first-time buyers focus so much on buying the home that they don’t think about what happens after closing. The truth is, homeownership comes with new responsibilities—and if you’re not prepared, unexpected costs and maintenance issues can catch you off guard.

In this post, we’ll cover:

  • What to do immediately after closing

  • How to budget for homeownership expenses

  • The most important home maintenance tasks

Step 1: Change the Locks & Secure Your Home

First things first—change the locks.
You don’t know how many people still have keys to your home (previous owners, contractors, neighbors). For safety, get new locks or rekey the existing ones.

Also, update:

  • Garage door codes
  • Alarm system passcodes
  • Smart home settings (if applicable)

Pro Tip: If your home has smart locks or security cameras, reset them to factory settings to remove old user access.

Step 2: Set Up Utilities & Home Services

1. Make sure your utilities are in your name. Before moving in, confirm that your electricity, water, gas, and internet services are switched over from the previous owner.

2. Set up trash collection and recycling. Check with your local city or waste management service for pick-up schedules.

3. Change your address. Notify:

  • USPS (so your mail gets forwarded)
  • Banks & credit cards
  • DMV & employer

Step 3: Budget for Homeownership Expenses

Now that you own a home, your expenses will look different than when you were renting.

Set aside money for:

Mortgage payments (duh, but don’t forget!)

  • Property taxes & homeowners insurance (if not included in your mortgage)
  • Utilities (they might be higher than what you’re used to)
  • Maintenance & repairs (1-2% of your home’s value per year)

Pro Tip: Start an emergency fund for home repairs. Unexpected expenses WILL happen—better to be ready!

Step 4: Keep Up With Home Maintenance

Unlike renting, there’s no landlord to call when something breaks—it’s all on you.

Create a seasonal home maintenance checklist:

  • Spring/Summer: Clean gutters, service AC, inspect roof.
  • Fall/Winter: Check heating system, seal windows, prep for snow (if needed).

Don’t ignore small problems! A tiny leak or crack today could turn into a costly repair later.

Final Thoughts: Welcome to Homeownership!

  • Change your locks & secure your home first.

  • Set up utilities, change your address, and start budgeting.

  • Stay on top of home maintenance—small issues can become big expenses.

Owning a home is a learning experience, but with the right mindset, you’ll be prepared for whatever comes your way. Congrats, homeowner!

Watch the Full Conversation

Want to make sure you’re ready for life as a homeowner? Watch this part of the discussion here:

Video Timestamp: 1:06:30 - 1:12:55

In Part 11, we’ll discuss which loan type is right for you.

#Realtor #RealEstateAgent #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #InvestmentProperty

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