First 90 days homeowner checklist
The practical tasks that make a house start feeling like your home.
The first few months of homeownership are full of small, easy-to-forget tasks that make a real difference once they're done. Knock these out early and the rest of the year feels a lot more settled.
Checklist
- Change or re-key every lock — you don't know who else has a key
- Find your main water shutoff valve and the breaker panel
- Replace HVAC/air filters and test every smoke & CO detector
- Set up trash & recycling, and register for any HOA/building portals
- Start a home file: closing docs, manuals, warranties, and paint colors
- File for any homestead or property-tax exemption your area offers
This step is general educational guidance, not legal, financial, or real estate advice — your contract terms, deadlines, and local requirements always take precedence, so confirm specifics with your licensed professionals. Read our full disclaimer.