
Closed, Now What?
10 Things to Know After You Close
Buying a home is an exciting milestone but once the keys are in your hand, there are a few important things to take care of right away. From setting up your first mortgage payment to avoiding common scams and understanding how taxes, insurance, and warranties work, this sheet walks you through what to expect after closing. Use this as a helpful reference to protect your investment, stay organized, and feel confident as you settle into your new home.
Utilties
Before moving into your new home, it’s important to contact all utility providers to set up service in your name ahead of time. This typically includes electricity, gas, water, trash, internet, and any other local services. Arranging these accounts prior to your move-in date helps ensure there are no interruptions and that everything is up and running when you arrive. Utility companies often require advance notice, so taking care of this early can make your move smoother and less stressful.
Home Warranty
Home warranties are most often negotiated as part of the purchase agreement and are commonly paid for by the seller at closing. If a home warranty is included in your sale, you should receive coverage information after closing, but we send you a copy of your invoice should a claim need to be made immediately. It’s important to know that the home warranty company must be contacted FIRST for any covered repair if you want to utilize this resource. The warranty company coordinates the contractor and confirms coverage and costs in advance, as reimbursements are typically not provided if you don't go this route. This process helps protect all parties and ensures repairs are handled according to the warranty terms and helps you pay the least amount for any repairs if needed!
The most common companies used for home warranties in our area are:
The most common companies used for home warranties in our area are:


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Content provided by Sara Hopkins Real Estate Team Des Moines Realtor
