homebuying
First-time home buyer moving guide — closing day through settle-in
Moving checklist for first-time homebuyers — inspections, closing costs, utility transfers, and your first 30 days in the new home. Free Muve timeline included.
Buying your first home adds a layer on top of moving: inspections, closing disclosures, and a hard move-in date tied to keys. This guide connects closing to move day — the same bridge Muve builds into personalized plans.
Before closing
- Schedule inspection and appraisal; budget 2–5% of purchase price for closing costs
- Set homeowner's insurance effective on closing date
- Book movers once you have a firm closing date (build buffer for delays)
- Final walkthrough 24–48 hours before closing
Full task list: first-time home buyer moving checklist
Closing day and move-in
- Bring ID and certified funds; confirm key handoff and garage codes
- Transfer utilities into your name
- Rekey or change locks
- Photograph meter readings and existing condition
First 30 days
- Update USPS, DMV, and voter registration
- Locate water shutoff and breaker panel
- Unpack bedroom and kitchen first
- Explore schools and healthcare if moving with family
Tools
- Moving cost calculator — budget closing + move costs together
- Moving timeline generator — preview your week-by-week plan
- Download Muve — 71 milestones, free on iPhone
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Get the free moving app on iPhone.
MuveMe — personalized timeline, AI budget, packing tools, and Muve AI. Search “moving app” on the App Store.
