I’m closing on my first house in just a few days! I’ll be living in it for at least five years (or until I’m ready to move up and rent it out). Any tips on last-minute checks or things I should be aware of before closing?
The house passed inspection with a few repairs done at my request, and it appraised for $15k over my offer. Feeling pretty good but open to all advice!
Go through the escrow statement and check every fee carefully—sometimes they sneak in extra charges. Also, walk through the house one last time and get all the keys from the seller. Change the exterior locks as soon as possible; you can deal with the interior ones later.
Get utilities and internet set up in your name ahead of time so everything’s ready when you move in. Congrats on your first home—cheers to many more!
@Zion
Wow, I didn’t even think about changing the locks. Obvious now that you mention it, lol. Thanks!
Vail said:
@Zion
Wow, I didn’t even think about changing the locks. Obvious now that you mention it, lol. Thanks!
Don’t forget to forward your mail to the new address through USPS—it’s free for the first year!
If you have a mortgage, try to pay extra toward the principal, especially if you didn’t put down 20%. Getting rid of PMI is a priority (if that’s relevant). Also, are you eligible for a homestead exemption? Check if you can apply.
For the final walkthrough, make sure all the repairs you requested were done properly and check everything closely.
@Devin
Thanks for the tip! Luckily, no PMI—I put down 30%. My plan is to pay 25% extra toward the principal for the first year and then bump it up to 50%.
I’m also bringing my inspector back before closing to double-check the repairs.
@Vail
You’re doing it right! I didn’t put down 30% like you, but you’ve got a great plan. Our inspection took 4 hours, and it was totally worth the $300 we spent.
Devin said:
@Vail
You’re doing it right! I didn’t put down 30% like you, but you’ve got a great plan. Our inspection took 4 hours, and it was totally worth the $300 we spent.
I paid $600 for the inspection, and now it’s another $200 for him to come back. Hope I’m not getting ripped off!
@Vail
Nah, since he’s already done the initial inspection, the follow-up makes sense. It’s worth the peace of mind.
Do a final walkthrough before closing. Test every outlet, faucet, toilet, and appliance. Make sure the repairs were done right, and take photos or videos of the empty house to document its condition. And congrats on becoming a homeowner!