You did it—you bought the house, signed the papers, and walked through your new front door with a mix of joy, relief, and “Okay… now where do we start?”
The first month in a new home is equal parts exciting and overwhelming. The good news? With a simple checklist (this one!), you can get ahead of the most important tasks while also making your home feel like you as quickly as possible.
Here are 15 high-impact, beginner-friendly, sanity-saving steps to take in your first 30 days.
1. Change All Locks, Codes, and Smart Devices
Re-key or replace every exterior lock, update garage codes, and reset any smart systems (thermostats, cameras, doorbells). You never know who still has access.
2. Give the House a Fresh Start Clean
Before you unpack fully, do a top-to-bottom clean—floors, cabinets, closets, baseboards, bathrooms.
Moving with velvet furniture, dining chairs, or a tufted headboard? See our Velvet Cleaning How-To Guide.
3. Do a Full Photo & Video Documentation Walkthrough
Capture the condition of every room, wall, appliance, and fixture. Store the files in a “House Inventory” folder for future warranties, insurance claims, and remodel planning.
4. Set Up (or Transfer) All Utilities & Services
Electricity, gas, water, trash, internet, security monitoring, and forwarding your address. Getting this done early prevents headaches later.
5. Handle Local Tax Paperwork & Exemptions
Depending on your state, you may be able to file a homestead exemption to reduce taxable value. Mark deadlines and complete paperwork early so you don’t forget.
6. Create a Basic Weather or Emergency Plan
Know where your shutoff valves are, build a simple emergency kit, and save the contact info for a plumber, roofer, and HVAC tech you trust. Need Houston recs? Just ask us!
7. Knock Out 2–3 High-ROI Mini Projects
These small updates make a big difference early on:
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Swap outdated light fixtures
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Update cabinet hardware (a huge transformation for minimal cost)
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Add fresh house numbers or porch lighting
For more value-boosting ideas, see: Increase Your Home’s Value: Smart Projects for Any Budget.
8. Plan — Don’t Rush — Your Paint Colors
Resist the urge to paint everything immediately. Spend a little time understanding your home’s natural light and test real samples first.
Need help? Read our full guide: Paint Color Trends Everyone is Eyeing for 2026.
9. Create a Drop Zone That Actually Works
Even without a formal mudroom, you can create structure by designating a landing area for bags, shoes, keys, and daily clutter. This single step makes your entire home feel calmer.
10. Schedule Key Home Services
Consider:
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HVAC tune-up
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Dryer vent cleaning
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Chimney inspection
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Pest control start-up
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Water softener or filtration setup (if needed)
11. Set Up Pets for Success in Their New Home
Create a calm “pet zone” before exploring the full house. Use familiar bedding, toys, and schedules to reduce anxiety.
For tips, see: Moving With Pets: What Every Homeowner Should Know .
12. Meet the Neighbors (Even If You’re Not Social)
A wave, hello, or quick introduction goes a long way. Ask about trash days, recommendations for local services, and any community groups or neighborhood apps.
13. Gather Important Documents in One Place
Start a binder or digital folder for:
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Closing docs
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Manuals & warranties
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Appliance serial numbers
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Paint colors
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Improvement receipts
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Insurance contacts
14. Do One “Joy Project” Just for You
In the midst of everything practical, pick one thing that instantly makes your home feel happy:
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Style a cozy reading nook
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Install a gallery wall
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Set up your Peloton/home gym space
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Add peel-and-stick wallpaper to a powder bath
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Refresh your front porch
For inspiration: check out Front Porch Styling Ideas, Gallery Wall How-To, or Small-Space Peloton Setup.
15. Create a 12-Month Home Plan
Break the year into three simple stages:
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Now (0–3 months): paint, lighting, entryway, hardware
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Next (3–9 months): flooring, landscaping, bathroom refresh
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Later (9–12 months): bigger remodels or renovations
Use Brix at Home’s library to map out projects with confidence—not chaos.
The Bottom Line
You only get one “first month” in a new home. By handling these smart steps early, you’ll save money, reduce stress, and lay the groundwork for a home that feels intentional and beautifully yours.
As always, if you ever have a question—paint, hardware, layout, updates that add value—I’m here to help. Welcome home.