5 Tasks to Take Care of After Closing on a Home

Jessica Dunnam, PA REALTOR
Jul 7
2 min read

Congrats! You’ve just closed on your new home. But before you can settle into your new abode, there are still some tasks that need to be taken care of. Here is an overview of the five most important things to do after closing on a home.

Change Out the Locks

Change all exterior door locks after closing—even if you trust the previous owner. You never know who might still have a key, including contractors or past tenants. Hire a locksmith to install new deadbolts. For the best security, choose locks with at least an ANSI Grade 1 rating.

Update Your Driver’s License

When you move, update your driver’s license and other documents like bank statements or voter registration. Most updates are quick—just fill out a form online or mail it in. Check with your local DMV for exact steps.

Submit a Change of Address

Before moving in, submit a change of address form with USPS to ensure mail from your old home is forwarded. It’s quick and easy to do online—just enter your info, pay any fees, and submit.

Deep Clean the House

Even if you did a thorough walkthrough before closing, it’s smart to give the home another check—especially if it’s been vacant. Clean all surfaces, steam carpets, and wash the windows. A deep clean also helps spot any needed repairs before moving in.

Have Your HVAC Units Cleaned

Older HVAC systems can collect dust and debris, reducing efficiency over time. Have them professionally cleaned before turning them on post-closing to ensure safe, efficient performance year-round.

Time to Enjoy Your New Home

Moving into a new home is exciting—but before you can unpack boxes and get comfortable in your new space, there are some important tasks that need completing first!

From deep cleaning the house to updating your driver's license information, double-check this list of five essential items after closing on a home for peace of mind that everything is taken care of prior to settling in for good!

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