New Homeowner Checklist:
Your 30–60–90 Day Plan After Buying 

Closing day feels like the finish line. It’s actually the starting line—just with keys.

This plan is designed for new homeowners.

The First 7 Days: Control the Basics

Do these immediately:

• change locks (or re-key)

• locate shutoff valves (water/gas)

• find the electrical panel and label it

• check smoke/CO detectors

• set up trash, water, sewer, and utilities (if needed)

It’s not glamorous. It’s protective.

30 Days: Safety + Stability

Focus on preventing expensive surprises:

• schedule HVAC servicing if you don’t know last service date

• replace filters

• check gutters/downspouts and drainage

• look for any signs of moisture

• document “baseline” photos of the home for your own records

Think of this as your homeowner onboarding.

60 Days: Comfort and Efficiency

Now you can optimize:

• weatherstripping and insulation touch-ups

• smart thermostats (if desired)

• lighting improvements

• storage systems

• small fixes you didn’t notice during showings

These upgrades improve daily life without detonating your budget.

90 Days: Value-Building Improvements (Without Over-Renovating)

By 90 days, you’ll know what truly matters.

High-impact, sane projects:

• paint

• landscaping cleanup and simple curb appeal

• minor bathroom refresh

• organization upgrades

• energy efficiency improvements

Avoid the temptation to do everything at once. A slow, intentional plan is usually better than a chaotic renovation spiral.

Move-Up Buyers: Don’t Forget the Transition Logistics

If you sold and bought (or are selling soon), keep it clean:

• transfer warranties and manuals

• update address everywhere (banks, insurance, subscriptions)

• keep closing documents in one folder (digital + paper)

• plan movers early, especially for peak weekends

The move is a project. Treat it like one.

Create a Simple Maintenance Calendar

If you do nothing else, create reminders for:

• HVAC filters

• gutter cleaning

• seasonal exterior checks

• sump pump (if applicable)

• smoke/CO detector batteries

Maintenance is the quiet hero of equity.

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The Matt Harnick Team | Keller Williams Real Estate

910 Harvest Dr, Suite 100 | Blue Bell, PA 19422 USA

Office: 215-646-2900 | Direct: 267-419-2968

Website: harnickteam.com

Team includes:

Matt Harnick (RS298725) | 215-576-5500 | matt@harnickteam.com

Michelle Chenevert, Operations Manager (RS370544) | 267-419-2968 | michelle@harnickteam.com

Josh Harnick, Director of Field Operations | (Unlicensed)

Each office is independently owned and operated.