What should you do in the first year after buying a new-construction home? Change HVAC filters on schedule, find your water shutoff, file your homestead exemption, schedule the 11-month warranty walkthrough, protect your drainage and keep every warranty document.
A brand-new house feels like it needs nothing. That's exactly why new-build owners in Lavon, Princeton, Royse City and Wylie tend to skip the basics in year one. Nothing is broken yet, so nothing gets done.
The first year is when small habits either protect your investment or quietly cost you. Here are the eight things new-construction owners forget most often.
1. Change your HVAC filters on schedule
This is the most commonly forgotten task and new homes need it more than you'd think, because construction dust keeps working its way out of the system for months. Change standard filters monthly. If you use a high-efficiency or HEPA-style filter, follow the manufacturer's schedule. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends cleaning or replacing filters every month or two during the cooling season and more often with pets or dust.
2. Find your water shutoff before you need it
In an emergency, every minute a pipe is leaking costs you. Find the main water shutoff (often in the garage or at the meter near the street) and make sure everyone in the house knows where it is. While you're at it, find the gas shutoff and label your breaker panel.
3. File your homestead exemption
New owners forget this constantly. If you buy after January 1, the Texas Comptroller says you can receive the homestead exemption for the applicable portion of the year once you qualify. The general deadline is before May 1. File with your county appraisal district. For a step-by-step walkthrough, read Texas Homestead Exemption: What It Is and How to Apply.
4. Put the 11-month warranty walkthrough on your calendar now
Most builders offer a walkthrough before the one-year workmanship warranty ends. Set a reminder for month 10 and keep a running list of drywall cracks, nail pops, sticking doors and anything else you notice all year.
5. Protect your drainage
Your lot was graded to move water away from the foundation. New flower beds, borders or extra soil can block that flow without you realizing it. Keep water moving away from the house, and don't let beds cover the weep holes in your brick.
6. Get HOA approval before you build or plant
Fences, patios, pergolas, sheds and even some landscaping changes usually need architectural approval in newer communities. Get it in writing before you spend money.
7. Be ready for your next tax bill
Property is appraised as of January 1. If your home wasn't finished on that date, your first tax bill may be based on a partial value and the next bill can be noticeably higher once the finished home is appraised. Budget for it, and watch your escrow statement. Learn more in Understanding Texas Property Taxes.
8. Keep a warranty folder
Store your builder warranty, appliance manuals, paint colors, the survey and every service record in one place. You'll use it for warranty claims now and a buyer will appreciate it when you sell.
The takeaway
New construction doesn't mean no maintenance. It means the maintenance is easy, if you actually do it. Build these habits in year one and you'll protect the house, your warranty and your wallet.
FAQ
Can I file a homestead exemption the same year I buy a new home in Texas? Yes. According to the Texas Comptroller, if you acquire the property after January 1, you can receive the exemption for the applicable portion of that tax year once you qualify.
How often should I change the air filter in a new home? Monthly for standard filters is a good rule, especially while construction dust is still clearing. Follow the manufacturer's schedule for high-efficiency or HEPA-style filters.
Why did my property taxes go up after my first year in a new home? Homes are appraised as of January 1. If yours was unfinished on that date, your first bill may have reflected a partial value, and the next one reflects the finished home.
If you found this useful, read these next
- Your 11-Month Builder Warranty Walkthrough Is About to Expire: exactly what to check before your warranty window closes.
- 8 Things to Do in Your First 30 Days as a North Texas Homeowner: the short list for your first month.
Just bought new construction?
Jeanie Marten Real Estate helps buyers in Lavon, Princeton, Royse City and Wylie through new construction and the first year after closing. Call or text 972-414-0719 or email [email protected] with questions about your warranty, taxes or next steps.
Sources: Texas Comptroller, Property Tax Exemptions · U.S. Department of Energy, Maintaining Your Air Conditioner
