New Homeowner Checklist: 20 Things to Do When Moving to a New Home

Becoming a homeowner is a major milestone for most, and whether it’s your first home or your fifth, there’s nothing quite like the excitement of walking through your front door knowing it’s yours. But in all that whirlwind of unpacked boxes, stacked furniture, and new keys, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve created this ultimate new homeowner checklist as a step-by-step guide to help you confidently transition into your new space. 

Before the move checklist

Most people forget this fact, but moving starts long before the trucks pull up. Here’s how to prepare ahead of time. 

1. Give notice if renting

Still in a rental? Be sure to give your landlord the proper notice before your move. Depending on your lease, you may have to provide a 30 to 60-day written notice. 

2. Update your budget

A mortgage likely isn’t your only new expense if you’re owning your own home versus renting. Homeownership typically comes with all sorts of extra fees like property taxes, utilities, maintenance, and often, homeowners association (HOA) fees. Use this time to revise your monthly budget so you’re not caught off guard later. 

3. Set up utilities

You don’t want to be left in the dark or with no way to cook once you move in, so make sure to schedule the activation of essential services before move-in day. These include: 

• Electricity and gas
• Water and trash collection
• Internet and cable
• Sewer services

4. Update your address

Before you settle in, make sure your mail and services know where to find you. Update your address with the organizations that matter most, including: 

• USPS (forward your mail)
• Banks and credit cards
• Insurance providers
• Employers and HR departments
• Subscription boxes or streaming services
  

5. Review and activate home insurance

Before you close on your new home, you’ll need proof of homeowners insurance, so it’s essential to review your policy carefully. Make sure it includes full replacement coverage, liability protection, and any extra coverage your location or lifestyle may require. 

• Covers the full replacement value of your home
• Includes liability protection
• Offers additional coverage (e.g., floods, earthquakes, or valuables) as needed

6. Make a moving plan

One of the first big decisions you’ll need to make is whether to hire professional movers, rent a truck and do it yourself, or recruit friends and family to lend a hand. Each option has its own benefits and costs — hiring movers can save time and effort but may be pricier, while a DIY move might require more elbow grease but give you more control over your budget.

No matter which route you choose, it’s important to budget carefully. Moving expenses can add up quickly, so be sure to plan for:

• Moving supplies (boxes, tape, bubble wrap)
• Rental truck (if applicable)
• Meals/snacks for helpers
• Childcare or pet care for moving day

Pro tip: Get multiple quotes from movers early, especially if you’re moving during peak season. That can help you save a little extra cash for other areas of your move. 

7. Clean and repair

Whether you’re moving out of a rental or preparing to sell your home, don’t overlook these important steps: deep clean floors, bathrooms, and appliances; patch any holes or scuffs; and take care of minor repairs to meet the terms of your lease or sales agreement. 

While you’re at it, put together a basic toolkit, such as a hammer, screwdrivers, duct tape, flashlight, tape measure, and utility knife, to make small fixes easier. For extra tips on securing your full security deposit, check out these helpful tips to get your deposit back.

8. Pack a first-day box

Your first day in a new home can be overwhelming, what with all the unpacking, organizing, and settling in all happening at once. To help make things easier, pack a dedicated box (or even just a suitcase) filled with these essential items you’ll want close at hand:

• Toothbrush and toiletries to freshen up after a long day
• Paper towels and cleaning wipes for quick cleanups as you unpack
• Phone chargers to keep your devices powered and connected
• Medications and important documents like IDs, insurance papers, and keys
• Snacks and drinks to stay energized without hunting for food
• Pet food, leashes, and essentials, if you have furry family members
• Pajamas and a fresh outfit so you can relax comfortably at day’s end

Keep this box in an easily accessible spot, i.e., somewhere you won’t have to dig through stacks of boxes when you’re exhausted and ready to unwind. Having these basics within reach will make your first night (and day) feel a little more manageable.

Moving day checklist

You made it! Now it’s time to make your new house feel like home, one box at a time.

9. Inspect your new home

Do a walk-through before you unload anything. Look for:

• Signs of damage
• Broken windows or leaks
• Missing items from the seller (e.g., appliances)

If you spot issues, contact your real estate agent right away. They should be able to help you rectify the situation more quickly and easily than if you tried to do so on your own. 

10. Meet the movers

Greet your movers at the agreed-upon time, show them around, and label rooms clearly so boxes land in the right spots.

11. Take inventory

Whether you hired help or moved yourself, check that all boxes and furniture arrived safely. Note any damages for insurance claims.

12. Set up one room (to start)

Start with the bedroom or kitchen, whichever will help you feel most settled. A comfy bed or a functioning coffee maker can do wonders for morale and get you ready for tackling the rest of the house. 

13. Secure the property

Change the locks (or rekey them), lock windows, and set up any security measures you planned, including smart doorbells, cameras, or alarms.

Post-move checklist

You’re in. Now’s the time to make your house not just livable, but actually your own. 

14. Learn the basics of your home

It might be tempting to jump right in and start decorating, but before you do, you need to know the ins and outs of your new home. Start by:

• Locating the main water shut-off and gas valves for emergencies
• Opening your electrical panel and labeling the breakers
• Gathering manuals and warranties for appliances and HVAC systems

15. Unpack gradually

Don’t rush! Instead, focus on essential spaces first, such as the bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen, then tackle other areas room by room.

16. Decorate with intention

Take your time settling in before making big purchases. Experience how the light shifts throughout the day and let your space reveal what it truly needs. This way, every choice you make will feel intentional and perfectly tailored to your lifestyle and personal style. It also helps you from making snap judgments that you might not like as much later on.

17. Meet the neighbors and the neighborhood

Take a moment to introduce yourself to your neighbors when you spot them outside or at the mailbox. A warm smile and a friendly hello can open the door to new connections — and you might pick up useful tips about trash pickup schedules, local events, or the best takeout spots nearby.

Once you’ve settled in, spend some time exploring your neighborhood on foot or by car to get a feel for your new community. Check out:

• Local parks and trails where you can unwind or get some fresh air
• Coffee shops and restaurants to find your new favorite hangouts
  Pharmacies and grocery stores for everyday essentials
• Nearby schools, libraries, or community centers that might be important for your household

Exploring your surroundings will help you feel more at home and connected to the community in no time.

18. Create a maintenance schedule

Routine upkeep prevents costly repairs. Add these home maintenance items to your calendar:

• Change HVAC filters every 2–3 months
• Test smoke/carbon monoxide detectors
• Clean gutters and downspouts
• Schedule annual HVAC servicing
• Flush water heater

19. Tidy the yard

Even if you’re not super into gardening, curb appeal matters. Mow the lawn, prune shrubs, and consider planting some of your favorite flowers or bushes to help brighten things up.

20. Start an emergency fund

Experts recommend setting aside 1–3% of your home’s value annually for maintenance and repairs. Start building this buffer as early as possible.

Looking ahead and enjoying the journey

Moving into a new home is more than just unpacking boxes; it’s the beginning of a new chapter. You’ll learn, adjust, decorate, and grow into your space with time. Whether you're settling into your forever home or planning your next move, having the right guidance makes all the difference.

If you’re just beginning to explore homeownership or thinking about your next purchase, working with a trusted real estate expert can help you feel confident every step of the way. Connecting with a Zillow partner agent is a great place to start.

Whether you're moving across the street or across the country, this checklist is your roadmap to a smooth, informed, and empowered homeowner experience.