Immediate Tasks (Days 1-7)
Change the Locks 🔐
You don't know who has keys—previous owners, their family, contractors, neighbors, agents. Change all exterior locks immediately.
Cost: $100-$300 | Priority: HIGH
Set Up Utilities 💡
Transfer electric, gas, water, trash, internet into your name. Some require deposits ($50-$200 each).
Cost: $100-$500 in deposits | Priority: HIGH
Locate Important Shutoffs 🚰
Find the main water shutoff, electrical panel, and gas shutoff. You'll need these in emergencies.
Cost: Free | Priority: HIGH
Update Your Address 📬
USPS mail forwarding, driver's license, voter registration, banks, credit cards, subscriptions, employer.
Cost: Free-$20 | Priority: MEDIUM
Deep Clean Before Moving In 🧹
Much easier to clean an empty house. Consider professional cleaning for carpets and HVAC ducts.
Cost: $200-$500 professional | Priority: MEDIUM
Getting Settled (Days 8-14)
Set Up Mortgage Auto-Pay 💳
Avoid late payments by setting up automatic payments. Your first payment isn't due for 30-60 days, but set this up now.
Cost: Free | Priority: HIGH
Replace HVAC Filters 🌬️
You don't know when they were last changed. Fresh filters improve air quality and efficiency.
Cost: $15-$50 | Priority: MEDIUM
Test Smoke & CO Detectors 🔥
Test all detectors and replace batteries. Replace any detectors over 10 years old.
Cost: $20-$100 | Priority: HIGH
Meet Your Neighbors 👋
Introduce yourself. Good neighbors are invaluable—they watch your house, accept packages, and share local knowledge.
Cost: Free | Priority: NICE TO HAVE
Create a Home Maintenance Binder 📁
Organize warranties, manuals, contractor contacts, and maintenance schedules. You'll thank yourself later.
Cost: $10-$20 | Priority: MEDIUM
🚨 Surprises Nobody Warns You About
11. Your Mortgage Will Probably Be Sold
Don't panic when you get a letter saying your loan was transferred to a new servicer. This happens to 90%+ of mortgages within 60 days. Your terms don't change—just where you send payments.
12. Your First Payment Isn't Due Right Away
You prepaid interest at closing for the partial month. Your first payment is due the 1st of the month AFTER the next full month. Close March 15? First payment May 1.
13. Utility Bills May Be Higher Than Expected
The seller's utility costs were probably lower because they knew the house's quirks. Budget 20-30% more than quoted until you learn the home.
14. You'll Get TONS of Junk Mail
Your purchase is public record. Expect offers for home warranties, security systems, mortgage refinancing, and more. Most are overpriced or scams.
15. Something Will Break
Murphy's Law of homeownership: something always breaks in the first month. Keep $1,000-$2,000 accessible for unexpected repairs.
🏠 Already Settled In? Check Your Options
Rates change constantly. See if refinancing could lower your payment or help you tap equity for home improvements.
Check Today's Refinance Rates →✅ Complete First Month Checklist
🔴 Immediate (Days 1-3)
🟠 First Week
🟡 First Two Weeks
🟢 First Month
Frequently Asked Questions
When is my first mortgage payment due?
Your first payment is due the 1st of the month AFTER the next full month. Close March 15? First payment May 1. You prepaid interest at closing for the partial month.
Why did my mortgage get sold?
This is normal—90%+ of mortgages are sold within 60 days. Your terms don't change, just where you send payments. You'll get 15 days notice and a 60-day grace period.
How much should I budget for first-month surprises?
Budget $500-$1,500 for unexpected expenses: utility deposits, higher-than-expected bills, immediate repairs, and supplies. Keep an additional $1,000-$2,000 accessible for emergencies.
Should I change the locks?
Yes! You don't know who has keys—previous owners, their family, contractors, neighbors, agents. It costs $100-$300 and is one of the first things you should do.
🏠 Congrats on Your New Home!
Now that you're settled, keep an eye on rates. Refinancing in a year or two could save you thousands.
Check Today's Rates →Related Guides
Emily Chen
New Homeowner Specialist • 8+ Years Experience
Emily helps new homeowners navigate the transition from closing to comfortable living.