Month 1 — Secure and Document
- Change all door locks and garage codes
- Photograph every room, appliance serial number, and utility panel for insurance records
- Locate the main water shutoff, gas shutoff, and electrical panel
- Set up mail forwarding and update your address at DMV, bank, employer
- Meet your neighbors — this is your security network
- Save all closing documents in a dedicated folder (physical and digital backup)
Months 1–3 — Tax and Insurance Actions
- File the California Homeowners Exemption with LA County Assessor (saves ~$75/year)
- Review your homeowner's insurance policy — compare coverage to actual replacement cost
- Confirm whether your lender is escrowing property taxes — verify the escrow account balance
- Update your renters insurance policy if you had one — your homeowner's insurance now covers the structure
- If you have HOA: review the CC&Rs, get the board contact, and understand what is covered
First Summer — Antelope Valley-Specific Prep
- Service your HVAC before summer heat (July highs average 100°F+)
- Check attic insulation — many older homes are under-insulated for desert heat
- Inspect weather stripping around all doors and windows for desert dust infiltration
- Set up or verify drip irrigation if you have landscaping
- Install window coverings on west-facing windows to reduce cooling costs
Year 1 — Equity and Financial Tracking
- Sign up for a free home value tracker (Redfin, Zillow, or ask Elizabeth for a quarterly CMA)
- Review your mortgage statement to see principal vs. interest split each month
- Track your equity: current value minus mortgage balance = your growing wealth
- Consider making extra principal payments if you have surplus — even $100/month accelerates payoff
- After 12 months, review whether refinancing makes sense if rates have moved
- File taxes with your new mortgage interest deduction (Schedule A) — consult a CPA
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the California homestead exemption and how do I apply?+
The California homestead exemption protects $300,000–$600,000 of home equity from creditors (the amount depends on county median home values). It is automatic for primary residences in California — you do not need to file a declaration. However, you should file a voluntary Declaration of Homestead with the county recorder for additional protection beyond the automatic exemption. It's a free, one-page form.
When is my first property tax bill due in California?+
California property taxes are billed twice per year: the first installment is due November 1 (delinquent December 10), and the second installment is due February 1 (delinquent April 10). Many new buyers are surprised by the bill size — your lender will often escrow property taxes as part of your monthly payment. Confirm with your lender whether your taxes are escrowed.
How do I file for the Homeowners Exemption on property taxes?+
The Homeowners Exemption reduces your assessed property value by $7,000 for owner-occupied homes, saving approximately $70–$80 per year in California. You must file with your county assessor by February 15 of the first full year you occupy the home. In Los Angeles County, file at assessor.lacounty.gov. It is separate from the homestead exemption.
What maintenance should I prioritize in my first year?+
First-year priorities: (1) Change all locks — you don't know who has keys. (2) Test and replace smoke/CO detectors. (3) Locate your water main shutoff and circuit breaker. (4) Service your HVAC before its first hot summer (Antelope Valley heat is significant). (5) Check the roof and gutters before winter rains. (6) Flush the water heater. (7) Reseal windows and doors if needed for desert dust.
Questions? We're Here.
Talk to Elizabeth — Hablamos Español
Bilingual real estate agent serving Palmdale, Lancaster, Quartz Hill, and all of Antelope Valley. No pressure, no jargon.