So, you’ve done it—congrats! I know the feeling—it’s exciting, emotional, and honestly… a bit overwhelming. You’ve finally closed the deal, but now you’re wondering: what are the things to do after buying a house?
Many new homeowners think buying the house is the finish line. In reality, it’s just the start. After your offer is accepted and you’ve got the keys in hand, there’s still a checklist of essential steps to tackle.
Things like setting up utilities, updating legal documents, fixing small repairs, and yes, avoiding some common rookie mistakes.
In this ultimate guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll cover step-by-step tasks, from setting up utilities when buying a house in Ontario to things not to do after purchasing a home.
Ready? Here’s a simple, easy-to-follow list of what you should take care of during your first year in your new home.
Immediate Things to Do After Buying a House (First 24–48 Hours)
Finally, you’ve got the keys in hand and your offer is officially accepted. The first thing to do after buying a house is to secure your new space and make it truly your own.
While it’s tempting to start decorating or unpacking boxes right away, there are a few essential steps to handle first.
Here’s what you should prioritize in those first couple of days after closing.
1. Change the Locks & Security Codes
First, you should change all the locks. This one is non-negotiable. You don’t know how many copies of your keys are out there—maybe with the previous owner’s family, old babysitters, contractors, or even neighbors. To feel fully safe in your new home, rekey or replace all exterior locks as soon as possible.
Also, don’t forget to:
- Reset any garage door opener codes
- Change the PINs for smart locks or security systems
- Update passwords for any smart home devices the seller may have left behind
Peace of mind starts with knowing you’re the only one who has access to your new home.
2. Do a Deep Clean Before Moving In
Next up: give the entire house a serious clean. Even if the seller did a decent job tidying up before closing, nothing beats a professional deep clean. Moving into a freshly scrubbed home just feels better—it’s cleaner, smells fresher, and lets you start from a clean slate.
Some areas to pay extra attention to:
- Carpet cleaning – to remove dust, allergens, and any lingering odors
- Duct cleaning – especially if the system hasn’t been serviced in a while
- Pest control inspection – even if you don’t see bugs, it’s smart to be proactive
You’ll thank yourself later for walking into a sparkling, sanitized space on move-in day.
3. Review Your Home Inspection Report Again
Then, take another look at that home inspection report. It probably felt overwhelming during the buying process, but now’s the perfect time to go back through it, especially before all your furniture gets moved in.
Focus on any issues the inspector flagged as urgent or safety-related, such as:
- Minor plumbing leaks (like dripping faucets or slow drains)
- Electrical problems (outdated wiring or loose outlets)
- HVAC servicing (if it wasn’t done recently, schedule it now)
Even small issues can lead to bigger problems if ignored. Tackling them early helps you avoid future headaches and potential costly repairs.
How to Set Up Utilities When Buying a House?
Wondering how to set up utilities when buying a house in Ontario or another city? This is one task you don’t want to delay.
How to Transfer Utilities (Step-by-Step)
Setting up utilities doesn’t have to be stressful, but it does require a little planning. Here’s how to make sure everything is ready to go on move-in day.
1. Contact Providers 2–3 Weeks Before Closing
Don’t wait until the last minute. As soon as your closing date is confirmed, aim to reach out to all utility companies at least 2–3 weeks in advance. This gives them time to process your account, schedule any necessary visits, and avoid any service gaps.
I made a checklist of providers to contact. Here are some common ones in Ontario:
- Electricity – Hydro One, Toronto Hydro
- Natural Gas – Enbridge, Union Gas
- Water – Your city or regional municipality (e.g., City of Toronto, Region of Peel)
- Internet/TV – Bell, Rogers, TekSavvy
When you call or go online, have this info ready:
- Your closing date
- New ownership details (your name, address, contact info)
- Meter readings, if required
Pro Tip: Some providers let you do this online—super handy if you’re juggling multiple tasks before moving.
2. Confirm Final Meter Readings
Don’t skip this step! It’s important to confirm the final utility meter readings on or near your closing day. This helps avoid paying for the seller’s usage and ensures you start fresh with a clean billing record.
Ask your lawyer or realtor if the seller has already submitted readings, or take photos yourself during the final walkthrough.
Utility Checklist: Things to Do After Buying a Home
One of the most common questions I hear is “How do you set up utilities when buying a house?”. The key is to contact utility providers to avoid delays.
Here’s a quick reference chart to help you stay on track:
| Utility | Ontario Provider Examples | Action Required |
| Electricity | Hydro One, Toronto Hydro | Transfer or open a new account |
| Natural Gas | Enbridge, Union Gas | Schedule service connection |
| Water | City of Toronto, Region of Peel | Update ownership info with the city |
| Internet/TV | Bell, Rogers, TekSavvy | Compare plans, book an install |
Important Note
If you’re still unsure when to contact utilities when buying a house, remember: 2–3 weeks before your closing date is the sweet spot. This gives utility companies enough time to schedule everything and helps you avoid last-minute surprises.
Getting your utilities sorted out early is just one smart step in your overall moving plan.
So, if you’re still figuring out what to do after buying a house, go ahead and add this to the top of your checklist. Your future self will thank you when the lights turn on and the Wi-Fi connects without a hitch.
Buying a house is just the beginning. If rental income is part of your plan, find out how much commission a realtor makes on rental property before listing with an agent.
What are the Essential Post-Purchase Tasks After Buying a House?
Now that the boxes are in and the keys are yours. You might be wondering, after buying a house, what to do next to make it safe, comfortable, and fully your own.
Good news: the next steps don’t have to be overwhelming. Let’s walk through some must-do tasks you’ll want to check off early.
Must-Do Checklist (Right After Moving In)
Once you’ve settled in (or even before all your furniture arrives), here are some key tasks I tackled that made a big difference:
1. Update Your Address
First thing to do after buying a house, notify the right places of your new home address. It’s a small task, but super important to avoid missed bills or government notices. Be sure to update:
- Your driver’s license and vehicle registration (ServiceOntario)
- CRA (Canada Revenue Agency) for taxes
- Bank accounts and credit cards
- Workplace and insurance providers
- Subscription services and online shopping accounts (Amazon, etc.)
2. Test Smoke & CO Detectors
Next: safety first! Check all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors as soon as you move in. Replace batteries if needed, and if any units are old or missing, install new ones right away.
A good rule of thumb:
- One smoke detector on each floor
- A carbon monoxide detector near bedrooms and any gas appliances
3. Locate Circuit Breaker & Water Shut-Off Valve
Then, take a few minutes to locate your electrical panel and main water shut-off valve. In case of a leak or power issue, you’ll be glad you know where these are. (Tip: label the breaker switches if they aren’t already!)
4. Register for Waste Collection
Also, find out your city or municipality’s garbage and recycling collection schedule. In Ontario, you can usually do this by searching your city’s name plus “waste calendar.” Some cities require new owners to register or request bins.
This is a good time to learn about:
- Garbage pickup days
- Recycling rules
- Yard waste and bulk item collection
Home Improvements to Prioritize
Before your furniture is in place, it’s the perfect time to tackle small upgrades or finishing touches. Here’s what I focused on:
- Painting walls – Much easier before rooms are filled with furniture. Plus, it instantly freshens up the space.
- Installing smart home devices – Think smart thermostats, doorbell cameras, or security systems. These add comfort and peace of mind.
- Doing small repairs or renovations – Fix that creaky door, upgrade light fixtures, or replace cabinet handles. Little things make a big impact.
Bonus Tip for Future Realtors
If you’re dreaming about becoming a realtor or building a personal brand in real estate, keeping your home looking great speaks volumes.
A clean, well-maintained space reflects your attention to detail—and that’s something clients will notice. Want to learn more? Check out this guide on building your brand as a realtor.
Things to Do After Buying a House: Financial and Legal Process
So, the furniture is coming together, the walls might be freshly painted, and you’re starting to settle in. But let’s not forget—there are a few important financial and legal things to consider after buying a house that go beyond décor.
These steps help protect your investment and prepare you for the responsibilities of homeownership.
Budgeting for New Expenses
Owning a home comes with new monthly and yearly costs that can catch you off guard if you’re not prepared. After moving in, I sat down and created a new budget that included:
1. Property Taxes
You’ll need to decide how you want to pay your property taxes:
- Monthly installments – Some cities let you break it down into manageable chunks.
- Annual lump sum – Others pay all at once, often due in early spring or summer.
Either way, it’s a good idea to mark your calendar and set reminders. Don’t let this sneak up on you.
2. Home Insurance
Now that you’re a homeowner, you’ll need to keep your home insurance policy up to date. Make sure it reflects your current living situation and includes things like:
- Fire and weather damage
- Liability protection
- Coverage for upgrades or valuable items
Tip: Shop around and compare rates once a year. You might be able to save money by switching providers or bundling with your auto insurance.
3. Emergency Fund for Repairs
No matter how new or well-maintained your home is, unexpected repairs will pop up. I set aside a small monthly amount into a home emergency fund—it adds up and gives peace of mind.
A good rule of thumb:
Save 1%–3% of your home’s value each year for future repairs (like a roof leak, appliance replacement, or plumbing issue).
Legal Considerations
Accepted offer on house, now what? Once the legal paperwork is done, don’t just toss it in a random drawer. These documents are important and should be kept safe and organized.
1. Store Your Closing Documents Safely
Keep these in a fireproof safe or a secure digital folder (and back it up!):
- Title deed
- Mortgage agreement
- Property survey (if available)
- Purchase and sale agreement
- Final closing statement
Having quick access to these will come in handy when you file taxes, refinance, or eventually sell your home.
2. Understand Your Warranty Coverage (If It’s a New Build)
If you bought a new construction home, take time to understand what’s covered under your builder’s warranty. Most Ontario new builds fall under the Tarion Warranty Program, which includes:
- 1-year coverage for general defects
- 2-year coverage for mechanical systems and water penetration
- 7-year coverage for major structural issues
Don’t forget to register your warranty and keep track of important deadlines for inspections or claims.
Remember, a well-maintained home isn’t just about comfort—it’s an investment. And if you’re interested in how the housing market is evolving, check out this blog on urban sprawl and Canada’s housing crisis to stay informed.
What Not to Do After Buying a House?
Now, let’s talk about things not to do after buying a house. I learned some of these the hard way.
Common New Homeowner Mistakes
- Ignoring Small Repairs – That tiny leak? It can turn into costly water damage.
- Overspending on Furniture – Focus on essentials first. Decorate slowly as your budget allows.
- Skipping Seasonal Maintenance – Clean gutters, service HVAC, and check for outdoor damage.
- Forgetting to Budget – Property taxes and utilities add up. Keep an emergency fund handy.
- Chasing Every Trend – Fancy renovations are tempting, but stay practical and plan wisely.
What is the Long-Term Home Maintenance Plan?
Owning a house is a marathon, not a sprint. Here’s a quick seasonal home maintenance checklist to stay on top of things.
| Season | Task | Frequency |
| Spring | Clean gutters and downspouts after winter | Twice a Year |
| Service the air conditioning system | Twice a Year | |
| Inspect the roof and siding for damage | Twice a Year | |
| Check caulking/weatherstripping on doors & windows | Annually | |
| Fertilize the lawn and prep garden beds | Seasonally | |
| Test smoke and CO detectors | Monthly | |
| Check the foundation for cracks or water entry | Annually | |
| Summer | Clean and inspect windows/screens | Seasonally |
| Power wash siding, deck, and driveway | Annually | |
| Inspect plumbing under sinks and around toilets | Monthly | |
| Mow the lawn regularly and water deeply | Weekly/Seasonal | |
| Check for pest activity (ants, wasps, etc.) | Quarterly | |
| Clean and seal the deck (if needed) | Every 2–3 Years | |
| Fall | Clean gutters before leaves clog them | Twice a Year |
| Schedule furnace/HVAC maintenance | Twice a Year | |
| Drain outdoor faucets and garden hoses | Seasonally | |
| Seal driveway and repair cracks | Every 2–3 Years | |
| Rake leaves and prep lawn for winter | Seasonally | |
| Test and replace smoke/CO detector batteries | Quarterly | |
| Winter | Check insulation and weather stripping | Annually |
| Monitor for ice dams and icicles on the roof | As Needed | |
| Keep vents and exhausts clear of snow | After Snowfall | |
| Inspect the basement for moisture or drafts | Quarterly | |
| Reverse ceiling fans (clockwise to circulate warm air) | Seasonally | |
| Keep the emergency kit and snow tools ready | Seasonally | |
| All Year | Check/replace HVAC filters | Monthly |
| Clean kitchen exhaust fan/filter | Monthly | |
| Review home insurance policy | Annually | |
| Drain the hot water tank | Twice a Year | |
| Clean behind appliances and vents | Quarterly | |
| Paint touch-ups or full repainting | Every 2–5 Years | |
| Refinish hardwood floors | Every 3–5 Years | |
| Store and back up legal documents (mortgage, title, etc.) | As Needed | |
| Inspect and pump septic tank (if applicable) | Every 3–5 Years |
Final Tips for New Homeowners
You’ve made it this far, so let me share some final golden nuggets:
- Meet Your Neighbours: They have the best local tips (like when waste collection happens or good handymen in the area).
- Keep Manuals & Warranties: You’ll be surprised how often you need them.
- Plan for Long-Term Projects: Don’t rush into big renovations.
- Celebrate Your Achievement! You’ve bought a house—enjoy it!
Also, if real estate has sparked your interest, consider exploring how to get your real estate license in 3 months in Toronto.
Wrapping It Up
Buying a house is a huge milestone, but the journey doesn’t stop at closing. By following this ultimate checklist of things to do after buying a house, you’ll stay organized and avoid common pitfalls. It’s a smart way to enjoy a smoother, stress-free start to homeownership.
Whether you’re figuring out how to transfer utilities from seller to buyer in Ontario, avoiding common mistakes, or planning long-term maintenance, every small task adds up to a big win.
If you’re thinking about getting into real estate, this is a great time to start learning the legal paperwork and terminology.
Knowing how to read contracts, understand title transfers, and handle closing docs gives you a serious advantage.
Explore your options to join a real estate brokerage and kickstart your career. Getting familiar with the process from the homeowner’s side will make you more confident when it’s your turn to guide clients.
