Escrow’s Closed, But You’re Not Finished……

There are a few little details you may want to add to your buyer’s checklist, just for your own piece of mind.

Change the Locks

It’s exciting to get those keys on the first day isn’t it?  (It’s exciting to hand them over, too).  But, don’t hang on to them.  You just don’t know who may still have one, and after going through all the hard work to buy this house, protect it!  Have all the locks changed the day you move in.  This is especially important on a foreclosed property, but even on a brand new home from the builder, it’s a good precaution. 

Recycle Moving Boxes

Once you’ve emptied them out, they’ll just be in your way. Chances are, your real estate agent has another client (or perhaps a colleague’s client) who will need them and pick them up for you.  Less hassle for you and environmentally responsible.

Check the MLS

Every once in a while, a listing doesn’t get updated as ‘sold’ in the local MLS.  Ask your Realtor to check that the listing agent took care of it, so you won’t have folks still trying to view or buy your new place.  I heard of one unfortunate tale where an agent used the lockbox to enter a condo, only to realize that it was currently occupied, and by a policeman at that!  It had never been updated as sold in the MLS and the lockbox was still on the building railing!

Organize Your Transaction Documents - Most escrows these days generate a slew of paperwork. While it’s all fresh in your mind, take the time to organize it in one convenient place.  Here what I’m implementing for all of my buyer clients – a Homebuyer’s bible of sorts.

Verify Your Recording - Several weeks after the close of escrow, title should show in your name.  Take the time to verify this with the county recorder’s office.  Was title meant to be in a trust?  Make sure that all is how you expected it to be. 

Monitor Utilities Billing - Insure that the start date for you billing is indeed reflected properly.  Especially when dealing with a bank owned property as they are diligent about their assets.  You won’t find them leaving the water or heat on one day longer than they own the property.   It’s of course easiest when you just issue transfer of account instructions prior to taking possession, that way there is no interruption in service.

Create an Inventory - Since you are handling each and everything you own during a move, what a great time to make a complete inventory list of your possessions.  No time to make that physical list now?  Then just snap a photo of each item, and do it after you’ve finished unpacking – but do it!  Again, protecting our investment and the things inside it.  You’ll be glad you did in the unfortunate case of a fire, burglary or natural disaster. Your insurance adjuster will need specific documentation if you file a claim. For an extra measure of precaution, upload this information to a web-based program like Google docs or Shutterfly.

Another good idea I learned from  a Professional Organizer friend – for any boxes you intend to store in the attic, make a 3 x 5 card with a list of contents. Then, number the card and the corresponding box.  It will make it SO much easier when you attempt to locate something.

Pet Protection - Get new ID tags for your pets. Moving can be stressful for your them too, and they don’t quite know what’s going on.  As you meet your new neighbors, let them know about your four-legged friends. That way, if one of your little critters wonders out with all the moving activity, people will know where they belong.  If you pet has an ID implant, remember to have updated contact information.

 

Tri Valley real estate for buyers and sellers. Search for homes in Livermore, Pleasanton, and Dublin.

I can also help you in the surrounding areas of Alameda County and Contra Costa County

including Castro Valley, San Leandro, San Lorenzo, San Ramon, Danville, Brentwood and Mountain House