Your First 30 Days in Your New Licking County Home
Posted: September 11, 2026 by Leanne Steiff
The Licking County Home Guide | By Leanne Steiff, REALTOR®, Leanne Steiff Sells Homes at e-Merge Real Estate | Updated September 2026
Alt text: Checklist for your first 30 days in a new Licking County, Ohio home: change locks, find shut-offs, check tax credits.
Your first 30 days in a new Licking County home should cover a few key tasks: change the locks, find your water and electrical shut-offs, update your address, set up utilities and check with the Licking County Auditor about property tax credits you may qualify for.
What should I do the first week?
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Change or rekey the locks
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Find the main water shut-off and electrical panel
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Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
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Set up utilities, trash pickup and internet
What should I do in the first month?
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Update your address with the post office, your bank and the BMV
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Save your closing documents somewhere safe
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Register any home warranty
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Set up a maintenance calendar for the furnace, gutters and filters
Are there property tax credits I should know about?
Ohio offers an owner-occupancy credit and a homestead exemption for qualifying seniors and homeowners with disabilities. Check with the Licking County Auditor's office to see what you qualify for and how to apply.
If I have a well or septic, what's different?
Mark your calendar for an annual water test and regular septic pumping. Know where the septic tank and drain field are so you can keep heavy vehicles off them.
"Closing isn't the finish line. I check in with my buyers after they move in, because that's when the real questions start." (Leanne Steiff)
FAQ
Should I change the locks after buying a house?
Yes. You don't know how many keys are out there, so rekeying is cheap peace of mind.
Do I need to apply for property tax credits in Licking County?
Some credits require an application. Contact the Licking County Auditor to see what applies to you.
What should I save from closing?
Keep your Closing Disclosure, deed, title policy and loan documents in a safe place.
Have questions about buying in Licking County? Contact Leanne Steiff, REALTOR® with e-Merge Real Estate, at (614) 531-0546 or LeanneSteiff.e-merge.com.
About Leanne Steiff: Leanne Steiff is a top-selling REALTOR® with e-Merge Real Estate and the agent behind Leanne Steiff Sells Homes. She's earned multiple sales awards and is a volunteer and leader in her community. Call (614) 531-0546 or visit LeanneSteiff.e-merge.com.