Your first 30 days at home.
Gabriela Corazo | Opus Elite Real Estate

You do not have to finish every project right after moving. Spend the first month learning how the home works and organizing the information you will need later.

Get familiar with the essentials
Ask qualified professionals to show you anything unfamiliar. Knowing where a control is does not mean every repair should be a DIY job.
- Locate the main water shutoff and electrical panel.
- Label equipment and gather manuals without changing settings you do not understand.
- Update locks or access codes after you take possession.

Create a home binder
Use a secure digital folder or a physical binder. The goal is to make the next service call or decision easier.
- Store closing records, warranties, and inspection reports securely.
- Keep a list of appliance models and service contacts.
- Record repairs with dates, receipts, and photos.

Make a realistic care plan
Start with condition and safety, then plan improvements around your budget and how you actually use the space.
- Test smoke alarms monthly and follow equipment instructions.
- Transfer recurring service accounts and confirm trash collection details.
- Build a maintenance reserve and revisit your priorities after living in the home.

DO
- Save useful records from the start.
- Ask how unfamiliar systems work.
- Address inspection follow-up items with the right professionals.

DON’T
- Post keys, documents, or access codes in moving-day photos.
- Start every cosmetic project at once.
- Assume the previous owner’s service contracts transferred automatically.

YOUR CHECKLIST
[ ] Update access and security codes
[ ] Locate key shutoffs and controls
[ ] Gather manuals and warranties
[ ] Create my home records folder
[ ] Set a maintenance budget
[ ] Choose my next seasonal checklist

LOCAL NOTE
Confirm recycling, bulk pickup, and household hazardous waste arrangements with your municipality or county rather than assuming they match your old address.

SOURCES
U.S. Fire Administration: Smoke alarm care: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/home-fires/prepare-for-fire/smoke-alarms/
PHFA: Pennsylvania homebuyer counseling: https://www.phfa.org/counseling/homebuyers.aspx

Educational guidance; confirm transaction terms and property-specific advice with the appropriate professionals.
Gabriela@opuselitere.com | 215-992-4100