{"id":89250,"date":"2026-04-13T05:02:39","date_gmt":"2026-04-13T12:02:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/?p=89250"},"modified":"2026-04-13T08:55:33","modified_gmt":"2026-04-13T15:55:33","slug":"things-to-do-after-buying-a-home","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/things-to-do-after-buying-a-home\/","title":{"rendered":"16 Things to Do After Buying a Home"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Buying a home is an exciting but busy process, and once you get the keys, knowing your next steps is essential.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From securing your home to setting up utilities and planning maintenance, this Redfin article covers essential things to do after buying a house once you finally receive the keys. Whether you&#8217;re purchasing a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/11458\/FL\/Miami\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">home in Miami, FL<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">,<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/30772\/OR\/Portland\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Portland, OR<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or anywhere in between, here\u2019s how to transition smoothly into homeownership.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-102814 size-blog-post\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/dina-badamshina-j7vbBmTHmjY-unsplash-945x630.jpg\" alt=\"four stacks of brown moving boxes line a room with several potted plants begging the questions of things to do after buying a home\" width=\"945\" height=\"630\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/dina-badamshina-j7vbBmTHmjY-unsplash-945x630.jpg 945w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/dina-badamshina-j7vbBmTHmjY-unsplash-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/dina-badamshina-j7vbBmTHmjY-unsplash-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/dina-badamshina-j7vbBmTHmjY-unsplash-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/dina-badamshina-j7vbBmTHmjY-unsplash-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/dina-badamshina-j7vbBmTHmjY-unsplash-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/dina-badamshina-j7vbBmTHmjY-unsplash.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 945px) 100vw, 945px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. Secure your home<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the first things to do after buying a home is to secure your home by changing the locks and updating any garage or security codes. You never know who may still have access, like previous owners, contractors, or even neighbors. Taking this step immediately gives you peace of mind and ensures you\u2019re the only one with entry.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. Complete necessary paperwork<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Handling post-closing paperwork is one of the most important things to do after buying a home.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Change your address:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Within the first week, update your address with the USPS, DMV, IRS, banks, employers, and insurance providers.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Forward your mail:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Set up mail forwarding to avoid missing important documents during your move.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Update your voter registration:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Make sure your registration reflects your new address to avoid issues during elections.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Store closing documents:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Keep all closing documents organized in a secure place like a fireproof safe or digital backup. You\u2019ll need them for taxes or selling later. You\u2019ll also need these documents if you decide to <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/rocketmortgage.com\/refinance\/get-started\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">refinance your mortgage<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> later on.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"ast-oembed-container \" style=\"height: 100%;\"><iframe title=\"3 Things You Need to Do Right After Buying a House #shorts\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/HN_j8oiifYk?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/div>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. Double-check your homeowners\u2019 insurance<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Review your <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-much-homeowners-insurance-do-you-need\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">homeowners insurance<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> policy after buying a home to ensure your coverage reflects your new property. Confirm protection levels, deductibles, and any additional coverage needed based on your home\u2019s location, features, and risks.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4. Purchase or review your home warranty<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/home-warranty-vs-home-insurance\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">home warranty<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can provide added financial protection by covering repairs for major systems and appliances. While optional, it\u2019s one of the smarter <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/tips-for-first-time-homebuyers\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">first-time homeowner tips<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to help reduce <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/hidden-costs-when-buying-a-home\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">unexpected costs<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. If a warranty was included in your purchase, review the details carefully so you understand what\u2019s covered.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5. Connect the utilities<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/estimating-utility-costs\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Setting up utilities<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> after buying a home is essential for a smooth move-in. Transfer or activate services before move-in day to avoid disruptions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Make sure to set up:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Water and sewer<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gas<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Electricity<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trash or recycling services<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Research providers in advance to find the best options for your area.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6. Check safety alarms<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Test all home safety alarms, including smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, as soon as you move in. Replace batteries or units if needed to ensure your home is fully protected against <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/health-hazards-in-your-home\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">health hazards<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7. Set up TV, internet, and phone services<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Arrange your internet and home services setup early so you\u2019re connected right away. Schedule installation or choose self-installation depending on your provider.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">8. Locate the circuit breaker and emergency shut-offs<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find your circuit breaker box and key emergency shut-offs, including the main water valve. If circuits aren\u2019t labeled, label them clearly. Also, keep appliance manuals accessible for easy troubleshooting and maintenance.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">9. Use your inspection report as a to-do list for upkeep<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Refer back to your<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/home-inspection-checklist\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> home inspection report<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to compile a list of repairs, updates, or maintenance tasks for the future. Prioritize these tasks based on urgency, focusing on addressing issues that could potentially lead to problems later on. This way you can tackle the most pressing concerns first to safeguard your new investment and avoid unexpected expenses.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10. Test your water<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s a good idea to test your water, especially if you\u2019re using a private well or moving into an older home. Contaminants like lead, bacteria, or even pesticides can sometimes show up in tap water, which may damage your plumbing or cause health issues. To protect your health and home, test your water through a certified lab, which you can locate using resources from the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/home\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Environmental Protection Agency<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (EPA).<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">11. Conduct an energy audit<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To better manage usage and improve efficiency, consider scheduling an<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/home-energy-audit-checklist\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">energy audit<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> through your utility company or an independent auditor. Doing this helps to evaluate your home&#8217;s overall energy performance, including HVAC systems, insulation, and room-by-room consumption. Electricity can be one of the most expensive utilities and an energy audit can help lower your <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/rocketmortgage.com\/calculators\/mortgage-calculator\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">total monthly housing expenses<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">12. Change HVAC filters<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s wise to replace your HVAC filters as soon as you move in, especially since there\u2019s no way to know if the previous owners kept up with maintenance. Doing this helps prevent poor air quality and system damage.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">13. Develop a regular maintenance schedule<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Instead of tackling all maintenance tasks like replacing air filters, cleaning gutters, and pressure washing at once, spread them out over time. Creating a<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/yearly-home-maintenance-checklist\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> regular home maintenance checklist<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to stay on top of routine upkeep and protect your home\u2019s long-term value.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">14. Create an emergency plan<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Having a home emergency plan in place prepares you for unexpected situations like fires or natural disasters. Include escape routes, emergency contacts, and essential supplies.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">15. Set up safety measures for kids and pets<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you have young children or pets, make sure to<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/creating-a-baby-safe-home-interior\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">baby-proof<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/7-ways-to-puppy-proof-your-home-before-your-new-friend-arrives\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">pet-proof<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> your new home for the safety of these companions. For example, be sure to install safety gates, use outlet covers, and anchor heavy furniture.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">16. Introduce yourself to neighbors<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re looking to foster a sense of community, introduce yourself to your neighbors after buying your new home. These connections not only help create a friendly neighborhood atmosphere, but can also create a sense of security should you need them in case of emergency.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Things to do after buying a home: First week and first month checklist<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">First week after buying a home<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-checked=\"false\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Change locks and secure your home<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-checked=\"false\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Set up utilities (water, electricity, gas, trash)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-checked=\"false\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Locate emergency shut-offs (water valve, circuit breaker)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-checked=\"false\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Test safety alarms (smoke and carbon monoxide detectors)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-checked=\"false\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Update your address with USPS, banks, and employers<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-checked=\"false\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Set up internet and home services<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-checked=\"false\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Store your closing documents in a safe place<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">First month after buying a home<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-checked=\"false\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Set your new home budget and track expenses<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-checked=\"false\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prepare for your first mortgage payment<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-checked=\"false\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Review homeowners insurance coverage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-checked=\"false\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Schedule home maintenance tasks (HVAC, gutters, etc.)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-checked=\"false\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plan home improvements or repairs<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-checked=\"false\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Create a home maintenance schedule<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-checked=\"false\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Meet your neighbors and get familiar with the area\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Things to do after buying a home FAQs<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do I have to hire a locksmith to secure my home?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No, you don\u2019t have to hire a locksmith to secure your home. Many homeowners choose to change or rekey locks themselves using DIY kits, which are typically more affordable and fairly straightforward to install. That said, hiring a locksmith can be worth it if you want everything done quickly, have multiple locks to update, or are upgrading to higher-security or smart lock systems.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When should I update my address and who should I notify?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aim to update your address within the first week of moving, and be sure to notify important institutions like the USPS, DMV, IRS, banks, credit card companies, insurance providers, and your employer of this update.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do I need both homeowners insurance and a home warranty?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/home-warranty-vs-home-insurance\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Homeowners insurance and a home warranty<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> cover different things, so having both can offer broader protection. Homeowners insurance is usually required by lenders and covers major risks like fire, theft, and certain natural disasters. A home warranty, on the other hand, is optional and helps cover the cost of repairs or replacements for things like appliances, HVAC systems, and plumbing due to normal wear and tear.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What should be included in a home emergency plan?<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A map of your home<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Escape routes (at least two per room)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Emergency equipment locations (know where fire extinguishers, first-aid kits, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and flashlights are located)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An outdoor meeting spot for residents<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A list of emergency contacts<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When is my first mortgage payment due after closing?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your first mortgage payment is typically due on the first day of the second month after closing.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What documents should I keep after buying a home?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keep closing disclosures, mortgage documents, and your deed in a safe and accessible place.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Find out what to do after buying a home with this complete checklist, including first-week tasks, maintenance tips, and more.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":808,"featured_media":102814,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"default","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center 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