# What Happens After You Close: Your First Year as a Homeowner

Congratulations on closing on your new Burleson home! While receiving the keys marks the end of your home-buying journey, it marks the beginning of your journey as a homeowner. The first year of homeownership involves important financial, maintenance, and administrative tasks.

Following a clear checklist during your first year ensures you protect your investment, maximize tax savings, and settle into your new community with confidence.

## Immediate Post-Closing Action Items (Month 1)

During your first thirty days, handle essential security and operational updates:
- Change Exterior Door Locks: Re-key or replace all exterior door locks and update garage door opener codes to secure your home.
- Test Safety Equipment: Replace batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. Ensure fire extinguishers are located near kitchen and garage areas.
- Locate Main Water and Electrical Shut-Offs: Identify the primary water shut-off valve, electrical breaker box, and gas shut-off valves in case of emergencies.
- Store Important Documents: Secure your closing settlement statement, title insurance policy, and home warranty documents in a safe place.

## Filing for Your Texas Homestead Exemption (Jan 1 to April 30)

One of the most important financial tasks for new Texas homeowners is filing for the Texas Homestead Exemption on your primary residence:
- What Is the Homestead Exemption: The homestead exemption lowers the assessed taxable value of your primary residence, reducing annual property tax obligations.
- How and When to File: File for free directly with your county appraisal district (Johnson CAD or Tarrant CAD) between January 1 and April 30 following your purchase year.
- Warning Against Filing Scams: Beware of official-looking mailers offering to file your homestead exemption for a fee. Filing is entirely free and simple to complete independently.

For service-connected disabled veterans, file for your Texas Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption at the same time to receive substantial property tax deductions.

## Season Maintenance Schedules and Home Upkeep

Maintaining your home regularly prevents costly emergency repairs down the road:
- Spring Maintenance: Clean gutters, inspect roof shingles, service HVAC units before summer heat, and test irrigation sprinkler systems.
- Summer Maintenance: Monitor lawn watering schedules according to local Burleson water guidelines and check window caulking.
- Fall Maintenance: Drain outdoor hose bibs before freezing weather, inspect chimney flues, and clean HVAC air filters.
- Winter Maintenance: Insulate exterior water pipes during severe cold snaps, clear yard debris, and inspect attic insulation.

## Building an Emergency Home Maintenance Reserve

Establish a dedicated home emergency fund during your first year. Setting aside fifty to one hundred dollars monthly ensures you can handle unexpected minor appliance repairs or plumbing maintenance without financial strain.

Enjoying your first year as a homeowner comes down to proactive care, smart financial management, and becoming an active, engaged part of the thriving Burleson community.

## Connecting with Your New Burleson Community

Beyond home maintenance, your first year as a homeowner is about putting down roots in South DFW. Attending local events in Old Town Burleson, exploring city parks, and engaging with neighborhood associations transforms your property into a true home.

## Tracking Local Property Value Appreciation

Keep an eye on neighborhood sales activity during your first year. Tracking recent comparable sales gives you insight into your home equity growth and helps you evaluate future property tax assessments from your local county appraisal district office with confidence.

Planning ahead for seasonal maintenance tasks ensures your home remains in top condition for years to come.

Send me a message, and lets connect.

Mike Ritrovato | Compass | Retired Marine
760-468-7930 | Mike.Ritrovato@Compass.com
TREC License #0797145
Serving Burleson and the DFW Metroplex