Before You Move In
The time between closing and moving day is precious. Use it wisely to secure your home, prepare the space, and set yourself up for a smooth transition.
Must Do
Critical tasks - don't skip these
Change or Rekey All Locks
You have no idea who has keys to your new home. Previous owners, their family members, old contractors, cleaners, neighbors, and real estate agents may all have copies.
- Replace all exterior door locks, or have a locksmith rekey them ($15-25 per lock)
- Don't forget garage entry doors, side doors, and basement access
- Consider smart locks for keyless entry and easy code changes
- Keep one old key until you've confirmed all locks work
Transfer Utilities to Your Name
Contact all utility providers to transfer service. Do this 1-2 weeks before closing to ensure no gap in service.
- Electric company - schedule transfer for closing date
- Gas company - schedule transfer for closing date
- Water/sewer - some areas require in-person visit
- Trash/recycling - may be municipal or private
- Internet/cable - schedule installation appointment
Document the Home's Condition
Take detailed photos and videos of everything before moving in. This protects you for insurance claims and warranty disputes.
- Video walkthrough of entire home, narrating any issues
- Photos of all rooms from multiple angles
- Close-ups of any existing damage or wear
- Photos of meter readings (electric, gas, water)
- Document appliance model numbers and conditions
Deep Clean the Entire Home
Much easier to clean an empty house than work around furniture. Plus, you'll discover issues you missed during inspection.
- Clean inside all cabinets and closets
- Wash all windows inside and out
- Clean all appliances inside and out (especially fridge and oven)
- Scrub bathrooms thoroughly
- Clean light fixtures and ceiling fans
- Consider professional carpet cleaning
Change HVAC Filters
Start with fresh filters. You don't know when they were last changed, and dirty filters reduce efficiency and air quality.
- Locate all air returns (there may be multiple)
- Note the filter sizes for future purchases
- Buy quality filters (MERV 8-11 for most homes)
- Set a calendar reminder to change monthly for the first 3 months
Verify All Agreed Repairs Were Made
If the seller agreed to repairs during negotiation, verify they were actually completed and done properly.
- Review your purchase agreement for repair requirements
- Inspect each repair personally
- Ask for receipts and contractor information
- Test repaired items (run the dishwasher, flush toilets, etc.)
- Address any issues before finalizing or releasing escrow
Update Your Address Everywhere
Start the address change process early. Some changes take weeks to process.
- USPS mail forwarding ($1.10 online, immediate)
- Driver's license and vehicle registration
- Banks, credit cards, investment accounts
- Insurance policies (home, auto, health, life)
- Employer and payroll
- Subscriptions and deliveries
- Voter registration
- Doctor, dentist, veterinarian
Confirm Homeowner's Insurance
Insurance should be in place at closing, but review your policy and understand your coverage.
- Verify coverage amount matches home value
- Understand your deductible
- Review what's covered (and what's not)
- Consider additional coverage for valuables
- Set up auto-pay to avoid lapses
Test All Smoke & CO Detectors
Life-safety devices should be working before you sleep one night in the home.
- Test every detector using the test button
- Replace batteries in all units
- Check manufacture dates (replace if over 10 years old)
- Ensure proper placement (one per floor, near bedrooms)
- Consider interconnected alarms so all sound together
Locate All Utility Shutoffs
In an emergency, you need to shut off utilities fast. Find them now, not during a crisis.
- Water main - usually near street, basement, or garage
- Gas shutoff - at meter (need wrench) and at appliances
- Electrical panel - main breaker and individual circuits
- Label everything clearly
- Keep a shutoff wrench near the gas meter
Finalize Moving Logistics
Confirm all moving arrangements and prepare for move day.
- Confirm date and time with movers
- Reserve elevator if moving to condo/apartment
- Arrange parking for moving truck
- Pack essentials bag (first night necessities)
- Prepare cash tips for movers
Should Do
Important tasks - do these if you can
Replace Toilet Seats
One of the most personal touches you can make for very little money. Start fresh with new seats.
- Standard toilet seats cost $15-40 each
- Takes about 10 minutes per toilet
- Measure before buying (round vs elongated)
- Consider soft-close seats to prevent slamming
Paint Any Rooms You Want Painted
Painting an empty room is 10x easier than painting around furniture. If you're planning to paint, now is the time.
- Empty rooms don't need masking or drop cloths over furniture
- You can be messy and fast without worry
- Let paint cure before moving furniture in
- At minimum, touch up scuffs and marks from previous owners
Reset Garage Door Codes
Like door locks, previous owners and others may know your garage codes.
- Find the 'Learn' button on your garage door opener
- Clear all existing remotes from memory
- Reprogram your remotes with new codes
- Consider a smart garage controller for phone access
Schedule a Pest Inspection
Even if you had one during purchase, consider a fresh inspection and preventive treatment.
- Look for signs of pests before moving in (droppings, nests)
- Check attic, basement, garage, and crawl spaces
- Professional inspection: $75-150
- Preventive treatment: $150-300
- Seal any gaps or entry points they identify
Set Up Security System
If the home has an existing system, transfer it. If not, consider basic security setup.
- Existing alarm? Contact the company to transfer service
- Change all codes if keeping existing system
- Consider smart cameras at entry points
- Video doorbell for package and visitor monitoring
- Smart locks for remote access
Start a Home Binder
Create a central place for all home-related documents. Your future self will thank you.
- Closing documents and deed
- Appliance manuals and warranty cards
- Paint colors and product names
- Contractor contact information
- Utility account numbers
- Home improvement receipts
- Maintenance schedules
Nice to Do
Bonus tasks - if you have time
Introduce Yourself to Neighbors
Good neighbor relationships are valuable. They'll watch your house, accept packages, and share local knowledge.
- A simple wave and introduction goes a long way
- Ask about garbage days, local quirks, neighborhood info
- Exchange phone numbers for emergencies
- Ask if previous owners left any info about the house
Next Stage
First Week Essentials
Safety first, then comfort. Days 1-7 in your new home.