What to Do After Closing Escrow: The “New Homeowner Checklist” Most People Miss

Closing escrow is one of the most exciting moments in real estate. You sign the final paperwork, you get the keys, and it finally feels real.

Then you walk into the house and realize something important: closing is not the finish line. It is the starting line.

In the first few days after closing, there are a handful of tasks that can protect your home, protect your privacy, and prevent the most common (and most frustrating) move-in surprises. And yet, most homeowners do not learn these steps until they are already dealing with a problem, like a smart doorbell still linked to the previous owner, a utility bill in the wrong name, or an HOA gate code that does not work.

That is why this week’s episode of the Kern County Real Estate Review is a must-listen.

Listen to the Episode: 15 Things to Do After Closing Escrow

In this episode, Laurie McCarty walks through a simple, practical checklist of 15 things every homeowner should do after closing escrow, in the order that makes the most sense, so you can feel confident from day one instead of scrambling.

Why this matters, even if you have bought a home before

A lot of homeowners assume this topic is only for first-time buyers. It is not.

Even experienced homeowners forget at least one of these steps, because the process has changed. Homes are more connected than they used to be. Many communities have HOA systems, apps, and fobs. Utility providers and service setups are not always automatic. And it is easy to overlook a small detail that becomes a big headache.

This checklist is designed to help you avoid those “I wish someone told me sooner” moments.

A few of the biggest mistakes homeowners make after closing

Laurie covers all 15 items in the episode, but here are a few examples of what many homeowners overlook:

1) Security is not just locks anymore

Most people remember to change the locks eventually. Fewer people remember to update every code connected to the property, including garage keypads, alarm systems, and any entry gates.

And in today’s homes, security goes beyond physical locks. If the home has smart devices (doorbell cameras, thermostats, Wi-Fi garage openers, smart locks), you need to make sure those devices are fully reset and transferred so that you are the only account with access.

2) The “simple” services are often the ones that trip people up

Utilities and service setups can feel boring, until they cause problems. Laurie explains what to confirm immediately after closing and how to avoid gaps in service that create unnecessary stress during move-in week.

3) HOA access issues can derail the first week

If the home is in an HOA, there are practical details that matter right away: payment setup, portal access, gate codes, keys, entry fobs, and amenity access. If those are not handled early, it is common for homeowners to feel stuck and frustrated during the first few days.

4) Your inspection report is still useful after closing

Many buyers think the inspection report is only for negotiations during escrow. In reality, it can become a smart homeowner roadmap after closing, when used the right way. Laurie explains how to prioritize items so you know what needs attention now, what can wait, and what is simply routine maintenance.

5) Timing matters for projects like paint and flooring

If you already plan to paint or update flooring, doing it early can save time, effort, and money. It is much easier to do those projects while the home is empty, before furniture, boxes, and daily life take over.

Who should listen to this episode

This episode is especially helpful if you are:

• Closing escrow soon and want a clear plan for your first week as a homeowner

• Moving into a home with smart devices, an HOA, or a home warranty

• Buying a home in Bakersfield or anywhere in Kern County and want local, practical guidance

• A homeowner who wants to avoid preventable issues and get settled faster

• A seller who wants to understand what buyers are thinking about after closing (it matters more than you might think)

A quick note for Kern County homeowners

Real estate is local, and so is homeownership. From move-in logistics to service providers to what buyers pay attention to when they tour homes, local insight matters.

If you are buying or selling a home in Bakersfield or anywhere in Kern County and you want guidance that extends beyond the closing table, the McCarty Group is here to help.

Listen now and save this checklist for later

If you know someone who is buying a home, send them this episode. If you are buying a home yourself, save it now and come back to it when you get your keys. The first week goes fast, and having a simple roadmap makes the entire transition smoother.