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You Got the Keys. Now What? 20 Things to Do After Closing
Last Updated: October 28, 2026 | By Patricia Omishakin
Congratulations, you’re officially a homeowner! 🎉 Closing on a home is a huge achievement, but the journey doesn’t stop there. Now begins the exciting process of making your house a home while also protecting your investment and setting yourself up for long-term success. Here’s your go-to list of 20 important things to do after closing on a home, with plenty of detail to guide you step-by-step.
Your First Year as a Homeowner
Closing day: Secure locks, save documents, and locate shut-off valves.
First week: Confirm utilities, update your address, and review warranty registration requirements.
First month: Set up your maintenance calendar, review insurance, and organize your homeowner binder.
Around month 11: If it's new construction, arrange a builder-warranty inspection before applicable coverage expires.
1. Secure Your New Home
One of the first things you should do after closing is change every lock on the property. You never know how many spare keys the previous owners may have handed out to neighbors, contractors, or family members. In addition to replacing traditional locks, remember to reset codes for garage door openers, smart locks, alarm systems, and any keypads on doors or gates.
2. Store Your Closing Documents
After closing, you’ll receive a large packet of important legal and financial documents. These include your deed, mortgage note, closing disclosure, and title insurance policy. Keep these documents in a fireproof safe or digitally scan and back them up in cloud storage—you’ll need them for taxes, selling, or refinancing in the future.
3. Update Your Address Everywhere
Your next step is making sure your address is updated across all the places that matter. Begin by filing a change of address with the U.S. Postal Service to forward mail from your old residence. Then update your address with your bank, credit card companies, employer, insurance providers, voter registration, and any subscriptions or online shopping accounts.
4. Set Up Utilities and Local Services
Ideally, utilities should be turned on before you move in—but if not, schedule them immediately. Transfer or start new accounts for electricity, water, gas, sewer, trash pickup, and internet. It’s also helpful to research local providers for things like lawn care, pest control, and handyman services so you’re ready when you need them.
5. Confirm Mortgage and Escrow Details
Take a few minutes to review your loan documents and confirm when your first mortgage payment is due. The exact date will be listed in your closing paperwork. Set up online access with your mortgage servicer so you can make payments, review your balance, and enroll in automatic payments if you prefer. If your mortgage includes an escrow account, confirm that property taxes and homeowners insurance are included. Keep an eye out for any notices about changes to your loan servicing or payment instructions.
6. Test Safety Devices and Alarms
Home safety should always be a top priority. Test every smoke detector and carbon monoxide alarm, and replace all batteries even if they seem to be working. You should also purchase fire extinguishers for the kitchen and garage, and consider installing a security camera or alarm system if your home doesn’t already have one.
7. Deep Clean Before Moving In
Before you move in furniture or boxes, give the entire house a deep clean. This is your best opportunity to scrub every surface, clean inside cabinets, and sanitize bathrooms and appliances. If time is tight, hiring a professional cleaning service is a smart investment—you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re starting fresh in a truly clean home.
8. Locate Your Main Shut-Off Valves and Breaker Box
You need to know where your home’s emergency controls are located. Find the main water shut-off valve and the electrical breaker panel, and label each circuit if it’s not already done. You may also want to locate the gas shut-off valve—knowing where these are can save time and prevent damage during an emergency.
9. Schedule a Post-Closing or Builder Warranty Inspection
Even if your home was inspected before closing, another inspection may be helpful down the road. For older homes, a maintenance inspection can identify issues that need attention.
Bought a new construction home? Consider scheduling an 11-month builder warranty inspection before your first-year warranty expires. A licensed home inspector can check for problems that may have developed since you moved in, giving you time to submit repair requests while they’re still covered. Be sure to review your builder’s warranty terms and deadlines, since coverage varies.
10. Create a Seasonal Maintenance Calendar
Owning a home comes with regular maintenance, and it’s easy to forget what needs to be done. Create a calendar to remind yourself when to change HVAC filters, clean gutters, service heating and cooling systems, check smoke detectors, and inspect your home for leaks or damage.
If you purchased a new construction home, pay extra attention to your HVAC filters during the first few months. Construction dust can build up quickly. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, and set reminders on your phone so important tasks don’t get overlooked.
11. Start Personalizing Your Home
Now comes the fun part—making your house feel like yours. Begin by choosing colors and decor that match your style, but don’t feel pressured to tackle every room at once. Focus on key areas you’ll use daily, like the bedroom, kitchen, or home office, and layer in personal touches like photos, plants, and cozy textiles.
12. Get to Know Your Neighbors
Making connections in your new neighborhood is not only friendly—it’s practical. Neighbors can alert you to local events, utility issues, school information, or even offer recommendations for local services. Introduce yourself with a smile or small gift, or attend a neighborhood event if one is coming up.
13. File for Your Homestead Exemption
13. Check for Property Tax Relief and Greenbelt Benefits
Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for property tax savings in Tennessee.
Certain homeowners age 65 and older, homeowners with disabilities, and qualifying disabled veterans or surviving spouses may be eligible for property tax relief. Some counties also offer property tax freeze programs for eligible seniors.
Own a home with substantial acreage? Tennessee’s Greenbelt Program may help reduce your property taxes if your land qualifies for agricultural, forestry, or protected open-space use. Agricultural and forest properties generally require at least 15 acres, while certain protected open-space properties may qualify with as little as 3 acres.
Contact your county property assessor or trustee’s office to find out which programs apply to your property and how to apply.
14. Review and Adjust Your Homeowners Insurance
Now that you’ve moved in and unpacked, take a fresh look at your homeowner’s insurance. Ensure the policy adequately covers your home’s value, your belongings, and liability for injuries or accidents on your property. Consider adding endorsements for natural disasters, floods, or expensive items like jewelry or electronics.
15. Inspect for Pests and Consider Preventive Treatment
Nobody wants unwanted guests moving into their new home! Take time to check for signs of termites, ants, rodents, and other pests, especially around doors, windows, the foundation, and areas where moisture collects.
Here in Middle Tennessee, termites are something homeowners should pay attention to. If your home is newly built, ask your builder whether a termite treatment was completed and whether any warranty or ongoing service is included. Depending on your property, you may want to schedule a professional pest inspection or preventive treatment.
16. Prepare for Emergencies
Natural disasters, power outages, or household accidents can happen unexpectedly. Build an emergency kit with essentials like flashlights, water, canned food, a first aid kit, medications, and extra chargers. Create a family emergency plan that includes a safe meeting spot and instructions for children or elderly household members.
17. Register Your Warranties and Organize Your Home Documents
Start a homeowner binder or digital folder to keep important documents in one place. Include appliance manuals, warranties, receipts, repair records, and contact information for service providers.
If you bought a new construction home, don’t forget to register your appliances and home systems! Check the manufacturer’s registration requirements for your refrigerator, dishwasher, stove, microwave, HVAC system, and water heater. Some manufacturers have registration deadlines that may affect your warranty benefits.
Don’t assume your builder has registered everything for you. Review the warranty documents you received at closing, save your model and serial numbers, and complete any necessary registrations as soon as possible. Having everything organized will also come in handy if you decide to sell your home later.
18. Set a Home Improvement Budget
It’s tempting to dive into projects right away, but it’s wise to create a budget before making upgrades. Focus on the repairs or improvements that will have the most impact on your comfort, safety, or resale value. Save up for larger renovations and avoid overextending yourself financially so early into homeownership.
19. Unpack in Phases, Not All at Once
Unpacking everything at once can be overwhelming. Prioritize essential areas like your kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom so you can function comfortably while you unpack over time. Label boxes clearly and take the opportunity to declutter as you go. If something doesn’t serve you anymore, consider donating or tossing it.
20. Celebrate and Share Your Accomplishment!
Buying a home is a major life milestone so be proud of it! Host a small gathering, take some pictures of your new space, or share your story online. If you had a great experience with your realtor, lender, or inspector, leave them a positive review as a way of paying it forward.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy Your New Home!
Getting the keys is exciting, but there’s still a little work to do after closing!
From securing your home and updating your address to registering appliances and staying on top of maintenance, these simple steps can help you avoid headaches down the road.
If you purchased a new construction home, pay special attention to your builder’s warranty, appliance registrations, and inspection deadlines.
And remember, you don’t have to get everything done in one day. Take it one step at a time, enjoy settling in, and make some wonderful memories in your new home.
Congratulations again, and welcome home! 🏡💚
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the very first thing I should do after closing?
Start by securing your new home. Change the locks, update garage door and smart lock access codes, and make sure you know where the main water shut-off valve and electrical panel are located. These simple steps can help protect your family and prevent unexpected problems.
Do I really need another inspection after closing?
Not necessarily, but it can be helpful. For older homes, a maintenance inspection can identify potential problems before they become expensive repairs. If you purchased new construction, consider scheduling an 11-month inspection before your builder's first-year warranty expires. This gives you an opportunity to identify and report covered issues before the deadline.
How soon should I update my address?
As soon as possible! Start with the USPS, driver's license, voter registration, banks, insurance providers, and employer. Don't forget subscriptions, online shopping accounts, and medical providers. Updating your address early helps prevent missed bills, packages, and important mail.
How do I build a home maintenance plan?
Start with a simple seasonal checklist. Schedule reminders to change HVAC filters, service your heating and cooling systems, clean gutters, test smoke detectors, and check for leaks. You can use a calendar or home maintenance app to stay organized. A little preventive maintenance can help you avoid costly repairs later.
Do I need to register my appliances after buying a new construction home?
It's a good idea to check the registration requirements for your new appliances and home systems, including your refrigerator, dishwasher, stove, microwave, HVAC system, and water heater. Some manufacturers require registration within a specific timeframe to qualify for extended warranty benefits. Review your paperwork and complete any necessary registrations soon after closing. Don't assume your builder has done it for you.
What happens if I discover problems with my new construction home after closing?
Start by reviewing your builder's warranty to see what's covered. Document the issue with photos and submit a warranty request through the builder's required process. Keep copies of your requests and follow up on any unresolved issues. Pay close attention to warranty deadlines, since different parts of your home may have different coverage periods.
Are there property tax savings available for Tennessee homeowners?
Yes, depending on your situation. Tennessee offers property tax relief for certain qualifying homeowners, including seniors, homeowners with disabilities, and eligible disabled veterans or surviving spouses. Some local governments also offer property tax freeze programs for qualifying seniors. If you own substantial acreage used for agriculture, forestry, or protected open space, your property may qualify for Tennessee's Greenbelt Program. Contact your county property assessor or trustee to learn about eligibility and application requirements.
🏡 Your Home Is Yours. Now Stay in the Know!
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Patricia Omishakin
REALTOR® at Elam Real Estate
I help buyers and sellers make confident real estate decisions in Smyrna, Murfreesboro, La Vergne, and surrounding Middle Tennessee communities. Whether you're buying your first home, relocating, exploring new construction, or ready to sell, I'm here to help you make your next move.
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