When you decide to buy a house, it’s understandable if you focus your attention on what you to do to prepare to buy a house and the home-buying process itself. However, the home-buying process doesn’t end once you’ve got the keys. You’ll need to take some steps to make sure the move from your old place to your new one goes smoothly.
A mortgage statement contains a lot of information, and you need to take some time to make sure you understand what it all means. Obviously, you’ll want to look at the amount due, the date your payments are due and how to make the payments. However, you should also look for things like your loan servicer’s contact information so you know who to call if you have any issues or questions about your mortgage.
Once you’ve got your new house, contact your nearest post office and let them know that you’ve changed your address. You’ll also want to start forwarding your mail to your new address, too. It’s worth pointing out that the Post Office does have an online form, and it lets you schedule the date the post office should forward your mail in advance.
In addition to vacuuming the floor, cleaning the windows and wiping the walls, you should also do the following:
You don’t know who else the old homeowners gave their keys to, so it’s best to change your locks just to be safe. Don’t forget to make some copies of the new keys to make sure you don’t lock yourself out.
Buying a house comes with a lot of paperwork that you’ll need to keep safe. Your best bet is to buy a small, fireproof safe that will keep all your mortgage and ownership documents. You can also store other important information in there, such as birth certificates and car titles.
Make sure all the smoke detectors have new batteries and test them to make sure they all work. Also check to make sure your house has at least one carbon monoxide detector.
You don’t technically need to take this step, but it’s a great way to introduce friends and family to your new home. You can also invite your neighbors and generate a bit of goodwill in your new neighborhood.
Once you’ve closed on your new home, there’s still a few things you’ll have to do, like cleaning your new house and making sure the utilities are transferred. You may also want to invest in some new smoke detectors and a fireproof safe.
When you’re looking for a new home, don’t forget to get pre-approved for a mortgage at First Alliance Credit Union. Our expert mortgage advisors will help you figure out how much you can afford to pay, and they’ll be available to offer help at every stage of the mortgage application process.