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Do These Things Before Moving In
Congratulations! You just got the keys to your new home! Before you run to HomeGoods, Target, and dive into all the DIY ideas inspired by the latest episode of Home Town or Property Brothers, you’ll want to tackle these essentials first.
- Change the Locks
The number one thing you should do right after closing is change every exterior lock and reprogram any keypads or smart locks. You never truly know how many copies of your old keys might be floating around from previous owners, contractors, cleaners, or service providers. Updating the locks gives you a fresh start, added security, and peace of mind from day one. - Get a Deep Clean Done
Per the real estate contract, it is not the seller’s responsibility to leave the home clean. In fact, the language reads: “home to be left in broom-swept condition.” If you’re in a buyer’s market and feel this should be part of your contract negotiations, I recommend adding language so the seller covers the cost of a deep clean. That’s one less item on your plate, and it helps you move in faster. Appliances will be left sparkling clean, and dust and dirt won’t be waiting for you. - Change Your HVAC Filters and Learn Your Sizes
During your due diligence period, your home inspector can point out where each filter goes and which sizes you need to purchase from Home Depot or Lowe’s. I also recommend scheduling your first HVAC maintenance visit. The last thing you need is the AC going out during move-in and trust me, if something is going to go wrong, that’s usually the first. My guess? It’s your HVAC adjusting to a new owner lowering the temperature or simply something the seller didn’t prioritize. (This is also something you can negotiate during inspections if it comes up, so the cost is covered before closing.) Set a reminder to replace filters every 60–90 days. - Schedule and Register for Water, Sewer, Trash, Electricity, Internet, and/or Gas
Having this done the week leading up to closing will save you a lot of time. I always request from the sellers a list of their service providers and pass that information along to my buyers to make the transition easier. This can include lawn care, pool services, as well as any warranties (roof, plumbing, appliances, HVAC). - Paint and Floors
If you’re planning to update paint or flooring, the best time to do it is before you move in. An empty home gives you easier access, faster turnaround times, and cleaner results no furniture to work around, no drop cloth obstacle course. Even small updates like fresh wall color, new baseboards, or refinishing wood floors can make the whole home feel brighter, cleaner, and truly yours from day one.
Buying a home is one of the biggest milestones you’ll ever reach, and taking care of these first steps helps you start off with confidence. Whether you’re settling in, planning updates, or just getting to know your new space, a little preparation goes a long way. If you ever need guidance on what to tackle next or want trusted referrals for local pros, I’m always here to help you make your new house feel like home.
