Congratulations! The moving truck has left, the keys are in your hand, and you’ve officially stepped into your new home. Whether you bought a cozy bungalow in Baldwin Park or a sprawling estate in Diamond Bar, moving into a new house is a big milestone—and with it comes an exciting new chapter.
But before you get too caught up in decorating or planning your first housewarming party, there are a few essential steps every new homeowner should take to set up a safe, comfortable, and well-functioning home.
At Country Queen Real Estate, we’ve helped countless families and individuals transition into their new properties across Southern California. Based on our experience, here are five crucial things to do right after moving in.
1. Change the Locks and Secure Your Home
One of the first things you should do after moving into a new house is change the locks. Even if the previous homeowners seemed trustworthy, you can’t be certain who else might still have a spare key—former tenants, cleaners, pet sitters, or neighbors.
Key Actions:
- Replace or rekey all exterior locks (including garage and back doors).
- Check all windows and sliding doors for working locks.
- Consider installing a smart lock system or security system for added peace of mind.
- If your new home has a security system installed, update the access codes and contact the provider to activate or transfer the account.
Home security is a top priority, and taking these measures immediately ensures that your home is truly yours from day one.
2. Inspect and Set Up Major Systems
While a home inspection may have already been completed during escrow, you’ll still want to personally walk through and check all your home’s major systems now that you’re officially living there. Identifying potential issues early on can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your home running smoothly.
Key Areas to Review:
- HVAC system: Test both heating and cooling. Replace air filters.
- Water heater: Make sure it’s set to a safe temperature (120°F is ideal).
- Circuit breaker: Label each breaker if not already done. Familiarize yourself with shut-off locations.
- Plumbing: Look for leaks under sinks, check water pressure, and test all toilets.
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: Replace batteries and test functionality.
Consider setting up appointments with local service providers if any of these systems require servicing. If you're in Southern California, Juliet Chung and our team can recommend trusted vendors throughout Los Angeles County.
3. Deep Clean Your Entire Home
Even if your new place looks spotless, you never truly know what’s lingering behind closed doors. A thorough deep cleaning can give you a fresh, healthy start in your new space.
Areas to Focus On:
- Carpets and flooring: Shampoo or steam clean carpets, mop hardwood and tile floors.
- Cabinets and drawers: Wipe down inside and out before unpacking your dishes or linens.
- Bathrooms: Sanitize toilets, bathtubs, and tile grout.
- Kitchen appliances: Clean inside the oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher.
- Light fixtures and vents: Dust or replace filters to improve air quality.
If you don’t have the time or energy after the move, hiring a professional cleaning service can be a smart investment that saves time and ensures thorough results.
4. Update Your Address and Important Accounts
This step might not feel urgent, but it’s essential to update your address with the necessary organizations to avoid missed mail or service interruptions. Identity protection, credit, and communications rely on having the correct contact information.
Where to Update:
- USPS: Submit a change of address form online to forward mail.
- DMV: California law requires address updates within 10 days.
- Voter registration: Update your new residential address online.
- Banks and credit cards
- Insurance providers (home, auto, life)
- Subscription services (Amazon, Netflix, meal kits, etc.)
- Employer and payroll
- Medical providers and schools
Pro Tip: Create a checklist to track which services and subscriptions you’ve updated. This helps prevent surprises like a missed bill or package delivery.
5. Get to Know Your New Neighborhood
Finally, don’t forget to take a moment to enjoy the journey. Moving into a new home is not just about the house—it’s also about the community.
Whether you’ve landed in a tight-knit cul-de-sac in Walnut or a lively family-friendly area like Lake Forest, embracing your neighborhood will make your new house truly feel like home.
Ideas to Settle In:
- Take a walk or drive around to familiarize yourself with local landmarks.
- Locate nearby grocery stores, urgent care, parks, schools, and public services.
- Join community Facebook groups or Nextdoor to stay connected and informed.
- Introduce yourself to your neighbors. A friendly hello can go a long way.
- Visit local coffee shops, farmer’s markets, and community centers.
The more you get to know your surroundings, the more confident and comfortable you’ll feel—and the more your new house will feel like home.
Final Thoughts: Set the Stage for a Happy Home
Moving can be overwhelming, but setting aside time for these five essential steps will help you establish safety, functionality, and a sense of belonging in your new space.
Remember, your home isn’t just a property—it’s a lifestyle, a community, and a fresh beginning. At Country Queen Real Estate, we’re here to support you long after the deal closes. Whether you need referrals, community tips, or advice for first-time homeowners, Juliet Chung and our team are just a phone call away.
Looking for your next dream home or preparing to sell?
Contact us today at 909-208-4040 or 909-374-0299 to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced real estate professionals.
