Think about it for a moment. There are thousands of articles that offer advice leading up to (and including) the closing / settlement process. But most of these articles fail to include tips for the period immediately after the closing. What's a new homeowner to do?
With that in mind, I offer you the following checklist:
1. Follow-up on your utility transfer.
You may have already started this process prior to closing. If not, that's okay too. Just be sure to follow up on electricity, gas, water and other paid utilities in your area to ensure proper transfer. It will save you a lot of headache later on, and possibly even a "lights-out" scenario.
2. Complete a change of address form.
If you haven't done so already, visit the local post office or go online to complete an official change of address form. Do this early on, and you'll minimize the amount of mail that gets sent to and forwarded from your old address.
3. Update your address with financial companies.
When it comes to credit card statements and other financial documents, it's best to go a step beyond the change of address form. Contact your credit card company directly to change your address on record. You don't want financial documents being sent to a home you're no longer in.
4. Update your voting information.
Call your local election board or visit their website to find out how to update your address. Even if you only moved locally, you might have a new polling station.
5. Get a new driver's license.
If you moved across state lines, visit your new state's Department of Motor Vehicles website to find out the process for exchanging your driver's license. There's normally a grace period where you're allowed to drive with the old license, but after a while you'll run the risk of getting a ticket.
6. Get a safe deposit box.
A safe deposit box is always a good idea, but it's even more important after buying a new home. Put all your important documents in there, such as your homeowner's insurance policy.
7. Set up auto-pay.
If your bank offers it, set up auto-pay for your mortgage payments. It will be one less hassle to worry about each month, and it will also help you avoid missing payments from forgetfulness.
8. Meet the neighbors.
If your neighbors don't come and introduce themselves, go say hello.
Remember, these are the people who will keep an eye on your home when you're away.
9. Ease into your mortgage payment.
If this is your first home, or if you've upgraded from a less expensive home, it's a good idea to ease into your mortgage payments. Give yourself a couple of months to adjust before making big purchases like furniture or home entertainment systems.
