Closing day isn’t the finish line — it’s just the beginning

When you’re buying a home — especially your first one — it’s easy to get laser-focused on the loan, the inspections, and the actual purchase. You’re thinking about the down payment, the closing costs, the paperwork…

But what happens the day after you close?

You have to move in. And that’s where buyers — even experienced ones — often forget to plan.

The reality is:
Getting the keys is only half the journey.
Actually moving into the home — and being able to live there comfortably — comes with its own list of costs that can sneak up fast.

Moving Ain’t Free — Even If You Do It Yourself

Whether you’re hiring professional movers or renting a U-Haul and doing the heavy lifting yourself, moving costs money.

And if you’re moving across the state — or across the country — costs can climb into the thousands.

You’ll need to budget for:

  • Truck rental or moving company fees
  • Gas and tolls
  • Boxes, packing supplies, tape
  • Maybe even hotels and meals if it’s a longer haul

It adds up quickly — and most buyers forget to plan for it.

Utility Deposits & Setups

Once you’re in, you’ll need:

  • Electricity
  • Water
  • Gas
  • Internet
  • Trash service

If you’re new to the area — or don’t have a strong payment history — many utility companies will require deposits just to turn on service.
They’re not usually outrageous, but if you’re juggling everything else, it’s one more surprise you don’t want.

The “Move-In Essentials” No One Warns You About

Now let’s talk about the stuff you need to actually live in the house:

  • A refrigerator (many homes don’t come with one)
  • A washer and dryer
  • Window blinds or curtains (you’ll want privacy on day one)
  • Shower curtains, cleaning supplies, smoke detectors
  • Furniture basics — even if it’s just a bed and a place to sit

Even if you’re bringing things from your current place, there are always last-minute must-haves that you didn’t plan for.

Big Warning: Do Not Buy Anything Until After You Close

We know — it’s tempting.
You want your appliances delivered the day you move in.
You want to order the new bedroom set, the kitchen table, the shiny new fridge…

But do not buy anything on credit before you close on your home.

Here’s why:

Financing appliances, furniture, or anything else will show up on your credit report almost instantly.

That new debt changes your debt-to-income ratio — and if you’re under contract, your lender will re-check your credit before closing.
If your ratios are off, they could deny the loan.
Yes — even if you’re days from closing. And yes — even over something like $2,000 in furniture.

So remember:

✅ Make a move-in budget
✅ Set aside cash or available credit
✅ Wait until after you’ve closed to spend a dime

Once you have the keys in hand, then — and only then — can you safely swipe the card or sign the appliance financing papers.

House Karma’s Advice

Here’s how to stay ahead of this:

✅ Make a list of everything you’ll need to move in and live comfortably
✅ Get estimates for moving services, utility deposits, and essential purchases
✅ Create a “move-in fund” — a separate stash of cash or backup credit
✅ Do not spend or finance anything until after your loan closes
✅ Talk to your House Karma advisor about affordable move-in strategies

Bottom Line

Getting the house is only part one. Moving into it — and being able to live comfortably — is part two.

We want you to enjoy your new home — not stress about how to afford blinds or a fridge because no one told you to plan ahead.

So take it seriously:
Budget for the move.
Be ready for real-life costs.
And don’t let a credit mistake before closing cost you the home.

We’ve got the tools, checklists, and advice to help you plan the whole journey — not just the day you sign. Let’s make sure your new home comes with peace of mind, not financial regret.