Your First 90 Days After Buying a Home: What to Expect and How to Settle In
Closing day comes, you get the keys, take the photo, and then suddenly the question hits: “Now what.” The first 90 days after buying a home in Montgomery County or Greater Philadelphia can feel exciting and overwhelming all at once. You are learning a new house, a new neighborhood, and a new set of responsibilities as a homeowner.
I am Shaina McAndrews, a Realtor and Team Leader who focuses on long term relationships and supporting clients beyond closing. I want you to feel just as supported after you move in as you did when we were searching, offering, and negotiating.
The First 7–10 Days: Safety, Basics, and “Where Is That Shutoff?”
In the first week or so, the goal is not perfection—it is safety and basic function. Before you dive into decorating, focus on:
Changing locks or rekeying doors so you know exactly who has access.
Finding the main water shutoff, electrical panel, and any gas shutoffs.
Locating your HVAC filters, attic access, and other critical points around the home.
This is also a good time to:
Transfer or set up utilities: electric, gas, water, trash, internet, and any security systems.
Do a basic deep clean before all the furniture is in place.
Create a folder or digital file for your key documents: closing disclosure, deed, mortgage note, inspection report, warranties, and manuals.
You do not have to memorize everything at once. The goal is simply to know how to handle an “oh no” moment if something leaks, trips, or shuts off unexpectedly.
Days 10–30: Settling In and Noticing the House
Once you are through the initial chaos of moving, the next few weeks are about settling in and paying attention. During this time, you can:
Walk room by room and notice anything that feels off: doors that stick, windows that do not lock smoothly, stains, or slow drains.
Register appliances and systems for warranties when applicable.
Make a list of small repairs or adjustments you would like to handle over the next few months.
It is also a good time to:
Explore your new neighborhood—walk or drive around, find the nearest grocery store, parks, and coffee spots.
Introduce yourself to neighbors when it feels natural. Even a quick hello can make you feel more at home.
This is the “getting to know you” phase between you and your house. You are learning how it lives, how the light moves through it, and what routines make sense.
Days 30–60: Routines, Budget Check, and Light Projects
By the one to two month mark, things start to feel a little more normal—but this is also when the first round of new bills and real numbers arrive.
During this phase, I recommend:
Comparing your actual utility bills and expenses to the budget you created before closing. If they are higher or lower than expected, adjust your plan and build in a buffer where you can.
Making your first mortgage payments and double checking that everything is set to auto pay correctly.
Creating simple maintenance routines: changing filters on schedule, checking smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and noting any seasonal tasks your home needs.
This is also a great time for light projects: painting, swapping out hardware or light fixtures, and small DIY improvements that make the home feel more like yours without overwhelming you or your budget.
Days 60–90: Personalizing and Planning Ahead
By the time you are two to three months in, the boxes are mostly unpacked and the urgent items are handled. This is when you can start thinking a bit more long term.
You might:
Start a prioritized project list: what you want to do in the next year, what can wait, and what might require saving up.
Gather quotes from contractors if you are considering bigger projects later.
Look back at your inspection report to see which recommendations you want to tackle first.
Emotionally, this is also when many new homeowners hit a “dip” where the excitement wears off and the reality of responsibility sets in. That is normal. It does not mean you made a mistake; it means you are transitioning from the idea of homeownership to the day to day reality of it.
How I Support You After Closing
When you work with me, my role does not end when we hand over the keys. In the first 90 days, I am still here as a resource.
You can reach out if you:
Have questions about something in the inspection report you are revisiting.
Need referrals for local contractors, cleaners, or specialists.
Want a second opinion on which projects to prioritize based on value and safety.
I love hearing how you are settling in, seeing photos of the changes you are making, and helping you feel like you have a trusted person to call if something comes up.
“What Should I Do After I Buy a House?”
If I could sum it up, I would say this.
In your first 90 days, you should:
Focus first on safety and basic function.
Give yourself time to live in the home before committing to big changes.
Revisit your budget with real numbers and adjust as needed.
Start simple routines that keep your home cared for over time.
You do not need to have everything perfect by day 90. Homes evolve with you. The most important thing is that you feel a little more settled, a little more confident, and a little less alone in the process.
If You Are Close to Closing or Just Starting the Journey
Whether you are weeks from closing or just thinking about buying, I am here to support you at every stage, including life after settlement.
If you want to talk about your plans, your timeline, or what to expect as a new homeowner in Greater Philadelphia or Montgomery County, you can book a buyer consultation or reach out with questions here:
https://calendly.com/agentshainamc/buyerconsult
You deserve more than a set of keys and a “good luck.” You deserve a guide who is still in your corner long after the ink is dry.
