It is recommended you keep all records pertaining to your home together in a safe place, including all purchase documents, insurance, maintenance and improvements.

KEYS TO HOME

You have been supplied with a set of keys that unlocks the doors to your new home. To ensure security, change the locks upon moving in.

UTILITIES

If you have not already done so, contact the local service providers to make arrangements for electricity, gas, water, phone and cable or satellite services. While some providers may need as little notice as a day to activate your services, it’s best to give them a few weeks’ notice.

OWNER’S TITLE INSURANCE POLICY

You may have received an Owner’s Policy of Title at the closing table. If this service is not available in your area, you will receive your policy by mail in the weeks following the closing.

RECORDED DEED 

Once recorded in the official county records, the original deed to your home will be mailed directly to you.

LOAN PAYMENTS

At the closing, written instructions were provided with details for making your first loan payment. If you have questions about your tax and insurance escrows, please contact your closing/settlement agent.

PROPERTY TAXES

At the closing, property taxes were prorated between the buyer and the seller based on occupancy time in the home. You may not receive a tax statement for the current year on the home you buy; however, it is your obligation to make sure the taxes are paid when due. Check with your lender to find out if taxes are included with your payment and if the tax bill will be paid by the lender from escrowed funds.

FILING FOR HOMESTEAD

If the home you purchased is in a homestead state, you may be required to declare homestead or file a homestead exemption. A homestead exemption reduces the value of a home for state-tax purposes. You can check with the local county recorder’s office to determine eligibility, filing requirements and deadlines.

POSTAL SERVICE

Your local Post Office can provide the necessary Change of Address forms to expedite the delivery of mail to your new home.You can speed up the process by notifying everyone who sends you mail of your new address and the date of your move. Many bills provide an area for making an address change.

DRIVER’S LICENSE, VEHICLE REGISTRATION AND INSPECTION

You are required by law to notify your state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) after any relocation so a new driver’s license can be issued. You will also need to have your auto registration transferred to your new address and depending on your state, submit to a driving test and vehicle inspection. Check with your state DMV to determine requirements.