GET STARTED WITH YOUR NEW HOME

Moving into a new home is exciting but can also feel overwhelming. This guide highlights the key steps for your first days, weeks, and year – so you can settle in with confidence while keeping your home in great condition.

Day One: Welcome Home

  • Garage Keypad: Clear preset code and set a personal code, if applicable.
  • Watering: Begin daily lawn watering, if applicable.
  • Ventilation Fans: Confirm fans are running continuously.
  • Utilities: Set up trash, internet/cable, and other services.
  • Change of Address: Notify the postal service, banks, credit cards, and other important contacts.

Weeks 1-4: Finding Your Routine

  • Appliances: Register with manufacturer.
  • 30-Day Check-In: Prepare to submit questions or concerns.
  • Lawn & Landscape: Consider a professional treatment plan.
  • Community: Meet neighbors and get connected.
  • Local Services: Identify nearby essentials (hospitals, pharmacies, groceries) and keep a contact list for emergencies and utilities.
  • Community Guidelines: If your home is part of an HOA, review rules and responsibilities.
  • Document Storage: Organize and safely store important home documents (warranties, manuals, contracts, etc.).
  • Watering: Continue daily lawn watering for 3-5 weeks.
  • Furnace Filter: Install a new filter (MERV 8 or lower).
  • Dehumidifier: Install and set up.
  • Mowing: Begin once grass reaches 3 inches.
  • Maintenance Schedule: Create a routine (furnace filter, sump pump, smoke detectors, etc.).
  • Homeowner Manual: Review the manual and Limited Warranty.
  • Mechanicals: Revisit and familiarize yourself with shut-off valves, GFCI resets, and other key components.

Year One: Making It Yours

  • 11-Month Check-In: Prepare to submit questions or concerns.
  • Lawn: Overseed and spot repair as needed.
  • Annual Maintenance: Complete seasonal and yearly maintenance tasks.