Post-Purchase Essential Resources: What to Do After Closing, Service Providers to Hire, and First 30 Days Checklist

Post-purchase setup requires systematic organization across 7 categories: (1) Utility transfers (electric, gas, water, internet - complete before move-in), (2) Service provider vetting (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, landscaping - establish relationships before emergencies), (3) Insurance verification (homeowner, umbrella, flood if needed), (4) Emergency preparedness (locate shutoffs, create emergency contact list, buy fire extinguishers), (5) Preventive maintenance scheduling (HVAC service, gutter cleaning, chimney inspection), (6) Home documentation (manuals, warranties, service records, create home binder), (7) Security setup (change locks, alarm system, outdoor lighting). First 30 days are critical for preventing future problems. Deferred maintenance costs 3-5x more than preventive maintenance. Having vetted contractors BEFORE emergencies saves $1,000-$3,000 in emergency surcharges. Proper setup prevents 60-70% of common homeowner emergencies.

All new homeowners, especially first-time buyers, anyone moving from rental to ownership, buyers of older homes requiring maintenance plans, investors managing rental properties.

• •Change locks immediately after closing; previous owner, contractors, agents may have copies
• •Schedule HVAC service within first 30 days ($150-$300 prevents $3,000-$8,000 emergency repairs)
• •Locate and label all shutoffs (water, gas, electric, sewer) before emergencies
• •Create home documentation binder (manuals, warranties, paint colors, service records)
• •Vet 5 core contractors before you need them (HVAC, plumber, electrician, general contractor, landscaper)
• •Preventive maintenance schedule: HVAC twice/year, gutters twice/year, chimney annually, septic every 3 years
• •Budget 1-3% of home value annually for maintenance and repairs ($6,000-$18,000 on $600K home)