Here’s What to Do Right After You Move In!
Congratulations! You’ve just bought your dream home, and the excitement of moving in is in full swing. While it’s tempting to focus solely on unpacking and decorating, there are a few critical steps you should take as soon as you move in. These simple yet effective actions will set you up for long-term success as a homeowner.
Replace Batteries in Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Safety first! Start by replacing the batteries in all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors throughout your new home. Even if the previous owner assured you they’re working, a fresh set of batteries ensures you have one less thing to worry about.
Pro tip: This quick task provides peace of mind and helps protect your family. While you’re at it, consider testing each alarm to confirm it’s functioning properly.
Automate Savings for Annual Home Expenses
Owning a home comes with ongoing costs, and planning ahead can save you stress. Set up an automated monthly transfer to a high-yield savings account specifically for home maintenance and other recurring expenses.
How much should you save?
- Maintenance: Experts recommend budgeting 1% of the home’s purchase price annually. For a $500,000 home, that’s $5,000/year or about $416/month.
- Property taxes: These typically range from 0.5% to 2.5% of your home’s value, which for a $500,000 home could mean $2,500 to $12,500/year. If you have a mortgage, this will typically be part of your monthly mortgage payment already.
Request Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments
Ask your lender about setting up bi-weekly mortgage payments instead of the traditional monthly schedule. By making one extra payment per year, you’ll pay down your loan faster and save tens of thousands of dollars in interest over the life of your mortgage.
Example: For a 30-year loan, bi-weekly payments can cut down your repayment term by several years!
Learn more about the benefits of bi-weekly payments from
Investopedia.
Shop Around for Homeowner’s Insurance Annually
Most homeowner’s insurance policies renew automatically, but that doesn’t mean you’re locked into the same rate. Set a reminder to compare rates about 30–60 days before your renewal date. Shopping around could save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars a year.
Ask for a Maintenance Log
Request before closing, for a record of recent maintenance and repairs. This can include:
- Ages of major systems (HVAC, water heater, roof)
- Past repairs or upgrades
- Dates of routine maintenance
Why it matters: Knowing this information helps you anticipate future repairs and replacements, so you’re not caught off guard.
Share this with someone planning to buy a home next year!
Taking these steps early on can make your transition into homeownership smoother and more enjoyable. If you have questions or need expert advice on buying or selling a home, I’m here to help.
Contact me today, and let’s make your homeownership journey a success!
Your home is one of the most significant investments you’ll ever make—let’s ensure it’s a smart one!
