Part One
Your First 30 Days
Checklist
Checklist
These are the things that need to happen right after closing that most new homeowners don't know about. Work through these in your first month and you'll be set up right.
Change all your locks
You don't know who has a copy of the previous keys, this is non-negotiable
Locate your main water shutoff valve
Know where it is before you need it, usually in the basement or utility room
Locate your electrical panel and label the breakers
Label what each breaker controls, future you will thank present you
Locate your gas shutoff
Usually near the meter outside, know where it is in case of emergency
Update your address everywhere
USPS, bank, employer, subscriptions, DMV, voter registration, IRS
Set up homeowner's insurance auto-pay
Confirm your policy is active and payment is set up, don't let it lapse
Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Replace batteries even if they seem fine, start fresh
Change your HVAC air filter
Do it now and set a reminder every 90 days going forward
Find your HOA contact and review the CC&Rs (if applicable)
Know the rules before you accidentally break one
Introduce yourself to your neighbors
Good neighbors are one of the best things about homeownership
Document the condition of everything with photos
Walk through and photograph every room, appliance, and system for your records
Part Two
Seasonal Maintenance
Calendar
Calendar
Staying ahead of maintenance is the difference between a home that holds its value and one that doesn't. Here's what to do each season to keep everything running smoothly.
Spring
- Service your AC before summer heat hits
- Clean gutters after winter debris
- Inspect roof for winter damage
- Check exterior caulking around windows and doors
- Turn on irrigation system and inspect heads
- Reseed or aerate lawn as needed
- Check sump pump if applicable
- Deep clean dryer vent
Summer
- Check irrigation weekly during dry spells
- Inspect and treat for pests
- Touch up exterior paint or stain
- Check deck or patio for wear
- Clean AC condenser coils
- Inspect window screens
- Check attic ventilation for heat buildup
Fall
- Service furnace or heating system before first use
- Winterize sprinkler system before first freeze
- Clean chimney if you have a fireplace
- Clean gutters after leaves fall
- Seal gaps around doors and windows
- Drain and store garden hoses
- Check roof and flashing before winter
- Replace HVAC filter
Winter
- Check insulation in attic and crawl space
- Reverse ceiling fans to push warm air down
- Protect exposed pipes from freezing
- Keep garage door closed to protect pipes
- Check for ice dams on roof after snow
- Test smoke and CO detectors
- Stock emergency supplies in case of storm
Pro tip: Set a recurring calendar reminder at the start of each season so maintenance never sneaks up on you. 15 minutes of prevention can save thousands in repairs.
Part Three
Kelsie's Preferred
Vendor List
Vendor List
These are the people I personally trust and refer to my clients. I only recommend vendors I'd call myself. Bookmark this page, you'll need it eventually.
Lender
TJ Shelley
First Colony Mortgage · NMLS# 1674331
(801) 660-8661
tjs@firstcolonymortgage.com
tjs@firstcolonymortgage.com
Title Company
Jarran Scheid
Novation Title Group
(801) 406-1254
jarran@novationtitlegroup.com
novationtitle.com →
jarran@novationtitlegroup.com
Roofer
James Frazier
On Top Roofing · Outside Sales Rep
(801) 391-9662
jfrazier@ontoproofing.com
ontoproofing.com →
jfrazier@ontoproofing.com
General Contractor
Jared Ochoa
Westlake Home Solutions
(801) 403-5059
Electrician
Jesus Cantua
(801) 259-0827
Auto & Home Insurance
Jacob Brad Johnson
Rob Jackson Insurance
Jacob@RobJacksonInsurance.com
Pest Control · HVAC · Landscaper · House Cleaner
More vendors coming soon
This list is always growing. Text Kelsie for a current referral anytime, 801.420.2284
"My relationship with you doesn't end at closing. Whether it's a vendor referral, a question about your home, or advice on when to sell, I'm always just a text away. Congratulations again. You earned this."
Kelsie Jimenez · 801.420.2284