The Top 3 Things to Do After You Purchase a Home

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Congratulations! You have just purchased a new home, and the excitement of moving into your new living space is unmatched. As you begin to settle into your home, there are a few crucial tasks to prioritize to make your move seamless. Here are the top three things you should do immediately after you purchase a home.

1. Change the locks

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The very first thing you should do after getting the keys to your new home is to change the locks. You don’t know who might have a copy of the existing keys— from previous owners and real estate agents to contractors. Changing the locks helps make your home more secure by ensuring you are the only one with access to it. Hiring a professional locksmith can make this process quick and easy. 

2. File a Homeowner's Exemption (if you are occupying the home)

If you are occupying your new home as your primary residence, filing for a Homeowner's Exemption can save you a significant amount of money on property taxes. This exemption reduces the taxable value of your home, thereby lowering your annual property tax bill. To file a homeowner’s exemption in Ada County, you can fill out an online application form here, which will ask you to provide proof of residence, such as a utility bill or driver's license with your new address.

3. Notify the USPS of a change of address

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To make sure your mail reaches your new home, you must notify the USPS of a change of address as soon as possible. You can do this easily online through the USPS website or by visiting your local post office. In addition to the USPS, make sure to update your address with banks, credit card companies, insurance providers, and any subscriptions or services you use. This small step will help prevent interruptions in your mail delivery and make sure important documents and bills reach you without delay.