A structured, priority-based guide to settling into your new home with confidence

Congratulations on your new home! 🎉
Here’s a clear, prioritized list to help you move in safely, smoothly, and stress-free.

🔴 HIGH PRIORITY ( Essential Setup + Safety)

1. Set Up and Confirm Utility Services

Ensure everything is active and functioning:

• Electricity

• Water & sewer

• Gas

• Internet / Wi-Fi

• Trash & recycling

• HOA portal access

2. Change All Locks and Access Codes

• Replace/rekey exterior locks

• Update garage keypad code

• Reset smart home logins

• Update alarm/security system codes

3. Locate All Emergency Shut-Offs

• Main water shut-off

• Electrical panel / breaker box

• Gas shut-off (if applicable)

4. Test All Safety Devices

• Smoke detectors

• Carbon monoxide detectors

• Fire extinguishers

• Replace batteries if needed

5. ⚠️ IMPORTANT: Expect a Lot of Junk Mail

You will receive a lot of unsolicited mail trying to sell:

• Expensive home warranties

• Duplicate or unnecessary insurance

• “Urgent” notices designed to look official

Please ignore these.
Your lender/insurance company does not communicate this way.

🟠 MEDIUM PRIORITY (Within the First Week)

6. Deep Clean Before Unpacking

• Floors and carpets

• Bathrooms

• Kitchen appliances

• Cabinets and closets

• Air vents and filters

7. Update Your Mailing Address

Notify:

• USPS

• Banks & credit cards

• Employer

• Mortgage servicer

• Insurance providers

• DMV

• Subscriptions & online accounts

8. Review Your Home Inspection Report

• Identify urgent repairs

• Start a maintenance plan

• Note long-term upgrades

9. Meet Your Neighbors

• Introduce yourself

• Gather local insights

• Build community early

10. Register Appliances & Warranties

• Register online

• Save manuals & model numbers

• Store receipts digitally

11. Build an Emergency Contact List

Include:

• Police & fire

• Utility companies

• Plumber, electrician, HVAC

• Nearest urgent care

🟡 LOW PRIORITY (Within the First Month)

12. Create a Home Maintenance Calendar

Plan for:

• HVAC filter changes

• Gutter cleaning

• Pest/termite inspections

• Landscaping tasks

• Annual roof checks

13. Review Your Homeowners Insurance

• Verify coverage limits

• Review deductibles

• Add endorsements if needed

14. Plan Home Improvement Projects

• Measure rooms

• Plan furniture layout

• Prioritize renovation projects

• Set budgets

15. Set Up Mortgage Payment Preferences

• Enable autopay

• Consider bi-weekly payments

• Budget for escrow, taxes, maintenance

• Track equity growth

16. Celebrate and Personalize the Space

• Start decorating

• Unpack in stages

• Make the space feel like home

17. Start Creating New Memories

• Host friends/family

• Explore your neighborhood

• Enjoy your new beginning

Final Thoughts

This priority-based checklist helps you start strong, stay safe, and settle into your new home with confidence.

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