Your First 90 Days as a Homeowner

The first three months are a good time to set routines that protect your home and finances. Use this guide as a working checklist.

1. 1.Weeks 1–2: Secure the property

   Rekey or replace exterior locks and change garage and gate codes.

   Reset smart-home devices, alarm codes, and Wi-Fi equipment left behind.

   Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries.

   Locate the main water shutoff, electrical panel, and gas shutoff, if the home has gas. Label them.

2. 2.First month: Understand your payment and escrow

   Review your first mortgage statement and set up the payment method your servicer accepts. If you have an escrow account, it pays property taxes and insurance. The amount can change after the servicer's annual escrow review. Watch for notices about a transfer of servicing, and confirm any change directly with your current servicer before paying a new company.

3. 3.First month: Review insurance and property tax

   Read your homeowners policy declarations, deductibles, and exclusions. Ask your insurance agent about flood or wind coverage if relevant. If the home is your primary residence, ask the county about Alabama's homestead exemption and the filing deadline.

4. 4.First 90 days: Start a maintenance schedule

   Change HVAC filters, clean dryer vents, check gutters and drainage, and note the age of major systems. Use your inspection report as a starting list of items to monitor.

5. 5.Keep your documents organized

   Store the closing documents, deed, title policy, Closing Disclosure, warranties, manuals, and receipts for improvements together. Keep a secure digital copy. Improvement records may matter for taxes when you sell later.

General educational information only—not legal, tax, financial, lending or property-condition advice. Confirm current requirements with the relevant professional or program.