After closing on a home in New Jersey, you need to confirm your deed is recorded, transfer all utilities, update your insurance and mailing address, file for any applicable property tax benefits, and securely store your closing documents. This post-closing checklist covers everything NJ homebuyers should do in the days and weeks after receiving the keys to their new home.
Confirm Deed Recording
Your attorney will submit the deed to the county clerk’s office for recording after closing. Recording typically takes 2 to 6 weeks depending on the county. Once recorded, the deed is stamped with the book and page number (or document number) where it is filed in the public records. The recorded deed is the official public record of your ownership. Your attorney should provide you with the recorded deed once it is returned from the county clerk. If you do not receive it within 8 weeks, follow up with your attorney.
Transfer Utilities
Contact all utility providers to transfer service into your name effective as of the closing date. This includes electricity, gas, water and sewer, internet and cable, telephone, and trash collection (if not provided by the municipality). In many NJ municipalities, water and sewer are provided by the municipal utility authority, and you will need to contact them directly. Some utilities require a security deposit for new accounts.
Update Homeowners Insurance
Verify that your homeowners insurance policy is in effect as of the closing date and that the property address, coverage amounts, and named insured are correct. If you have a mortgage, your lender requires you to maintain homeowners insurance for the full replacement value of the property. Your insurance binder was provided to the lender at closing, but you should confirm that the annual policy has been issued. Consider whether you need additional coverage such as flood insurance (required in designated flood zones) or an umbrella policy.
File for Property Tax Benefits
NJ offers several property tax programs that you may be eligible for. The Homestead Benefit program provides property tax credits to qualifying homeowners based on income and residency requirements. The Property Tax Reimbursement program (also known as “Senior Freeze”) reimburses eligible senior citizens and disabled persons for property tax increases. NJ also provides a $250 annual property tax deduction for qualified veterans. Check with your municipal tax assessor and the NJ Division of Taxation for eligibility requirements and application deadlines, as these programs require annual application.
Change Your Mailing Address
Update your address with the United States Postal Service (USPS) by filing a change-of-address form online or at your local post office. Also update your address with your employer (for tax withholding purposes), bank and financial institutions, credit card companies, insurance providers (auto, health, life), the NJ Motor Vehicle Commission (update your driver’s license within the required timeframe), voter registration, medical providers, and any subscriptions or regular deliveries.
Secure the Property
Change or rekey all exterior door locks immediately after closing. You do not know how many copies of the existing keys may have been distributed to previous owners, contractors, neighbors, or real estate agents. If the home has a security system, contact the security company to transfer the account to your name and change all access codes. Test all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries as needed — NJ law requires working smoke and CO detectors in all residential properties.
Property Tax Payment Schedule
NJ property taxes are paid quarterly, with due dates of February 1, May 1, August 1, and November 1. If your mortgage includes an escrow account, your lender pays property taxes on your behalf from the escrow funds. If you do not have an escrow account, you are responsible for paying property taxes directly to the municipal tax collector. At closing, property taxes are prorated between buyer and seller, so your first tax payment may be a partial amount. Familiarize yourself with your municipality’s tax payment schedule and the amount of your quarterly tax obligation.
What to Keep in Your Records
Store the following documents securely and permanently: the recorded deed, your title insurance policy (owner’s and lender’s), the closing disclosure (settlement statement), all mortgage documents (note, mortgage, truth-in-lending disclosure), the property survey, home inspection report, certificate of occupancy or certificate of continued occupancy, any warranties (roof, HVAC, appliances), and all receipts for home improvements (important for future capital gains tax calculations when you sell). Store originals in a fireproof safe or bank safety deposit box and keep copies in a separate location or digital backup.
Call Friscia & Associates Today
Questions about your NJ real estate closing or post-closing requirements? Call Friscia & Associates at (973) 500-8024 to speak with a NJ real estate attorney who can assist with any post-closing issues and answer your questions about homeownership in New Jersey.
Legal Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed by reading this content. Tax programs and requirements are subject to change. If you need legal advice, please contact our office to schedule a consultation.