Moving & the first month

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• Change the locks & garage codesDay one. You have no idea who has copies.
• Set up utilities in your nameElectric, gas, water/sewer, trash, internet — start before closing so nothing lapses.
• USPS mail forwardingTakes 5 minutes online; start it a week before the move.
• Update your address everywhereBank, employer, DMV, insurance, subscriptions, voter registration.
• Find the main water shutoffBefore you need it at 2 AM. Tag it.
• Find the electrical panel & label breakersA rainy-Saturday project that pays off forever.
• Replace furnace filter & test smoke/CO detectorsFresh batteries everywhere; add detectors where missing.
• Locate property tax & homestead paperworkIn Minnesota, file for homestead classification — it can lower your property taxes. Deadlines apply.
• Confirm where your first payment goesWatch for your servicer letter; FairwayNEXT explains your first payment. Ignore lookalike junk mail.
• Beware the junk-mail floodNew deeds are public record; “mortgage protection” and “home warranty” letters will pour in. Most belong in recycling.
• Start a home maintenance fundAim toward ~1% of home value per year. Future-you says thanks.
• Save Spencer’s numberRate questions, refinance timing, a friend who wants to buy — the team doesn’t disband at closing.

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