As a new homeowner, closing an escrow is a huge accomplishment. Most of the logistics are finally behind you, and you can actually get settled in your new home with your family. However, there are a few more things that still need to be done. More specifically, there are three things you need to do to protect yourself and your newly acquired property.
File Away Your Documents
Upon closing an escrow, you’re going to have more than a handful of documents that needs to be stored away for safe record keeping. The following documents should be sent to you in the following months after the escrow closes:
- Property tax information
- Payment information from mortgage lender
- Grant Deed
- Final closing statement
- Policy of Title Insurance
Be sure to have the actual physical papers as well as a few printed copies and a digital copy.
Rekey the Doors
One of the first things you should do is rekey the front and back doors. Remember that the real estate agent, the previous owner, and possibly even some of the previous owner’s extended relatives and friends may have keys to your new home. Changing the locks gives you peace of mind knowing that only you and your family can gain entry to the home.
Organize
This is the fun part! The home interior is a blank canvas that you can renovate to your liking. Use a maintenance calendar and create a schedule dedicated solely to home improvement. Tasks like inspecting the furnace filter or vacuuming the refrigerator coils should be on the list.
Let Us Be Your Escrow Intermediary
Members of Curtis & Casteel Law Group has a combined 45-years plus of experience in the area of real estate law. Contact us if you’re the buyer or seller and need to get the lengthy real estate planning underway. With us as a neutral third-party intermediary, closing an escrow will be a lot simpler.
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Edited by Justin Vorhees