First year priorities include setting up utilities, filing your Texas homestead exemption, creating a maintenance budget, finding reliable contractors, establishing an emergency fund, reviewing your insurance annually, starting to build equity through extra payments, and getting to know your neighborhood and neighbors.
Month 1 Tasks
Set up utilities, change locks, file homestead exemption, locate main water shut-off.
First 6 Months
Create maintenance budget, find reliable contractors, establish emergency fund.
End of Year 1
Review insurance policy, check for needed repairs, evaluate mortgage options.
Financial Setup
Establish automatic savings for maintenance and consider extra mortgage payments.
Maintenance Planning
Create a seasonal maintenance calendar and build relationships with local service providers.