Your move, week by week
You’re under contract. Here’s everything that happens between now and the keys — and exactly when to do each part.
From accepted offer to keys is usually 30 to 45 days. Everything below is counted back from your closing date — that’s the fixed point, and it’s what the utility companies and movers will ask you for. Work down the list in order and nothing gets forgotten.
As soon as your offer is accepted
Deliver your deposit, lock your loan if you’re ready, and schedule the home inspection immediately — inspection windows are short and they start now.
About three weeks before closing
Inspection results get negotiated. Book your movers (or the truck), start collecting boxes, and begin with anything you won’t need before the move — closets, storage, the garage.
Two weeks before closing
Call every utility and schedule the switch for closing day. Submit your USPS mail forward, confirm homeowners insurance is bound, and request school records if the district is changing.
One week before closing
Do the bulk of your packing now, and label every box with the room it belongs in. Set one box aside marked “open first”: medications, chargers, toiletries, tools, coffee, paper towels. Confirm the movers and the closing time.
Two or three days before closing
Empty and defrost the fridge, finish the last rooms, and get your certified funds arranged. Confirm wire instructions by phone at a number you already had — never from an email.
Closing day
Do the final walkthrough that morning. Bring photo ID and your funds. Sign, get the keys, and change the locks when you arrive — you never know how many copies exist.
Your first week in the new home
Locate the water shutoff and the breaker panel, test the smoke detectors, update your license and registration with PennDOT within 15 days, and meet the neighbors.
| What | When | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Electric & gas | 2 weeks before closing | Schedule the switch for closing day, not moving day |
| Water & sewer | 2 weeks before closing | Often the municipality; some require a final reading |
| Internet & cable | 3–4 weeks before closing | Book early — install slots go fast |
| Trash | 1–2 weeks before closing | Borough-provided in some areas, private in others |
| USPS mail forward | 1–2 weeks before closing | usps.com, takes about a week to start |
| Homeowners insurance | 2–3 weeks before closing | Required before closing; your lender needs proof |
| School records | 2–3 weeks before closing | Only if the district changes |
| Driver’s license & registration | After you move | PennDOT requires an address update within 15 days |
Questions about the contract to close process?
Maria handles the moving pieces so you don’t have to chase them. Call, text, or have us reach out.