Buying a home is one of the most significant and transformational moments in a person’s life. It is a dream realized, an investment for the future and a place to build memories. But after the deed what should be done? Once all the documents are signed and the keys are obtained, what happens?

While the euphoria of the purchase may still be in the air, it is essential to know what to do next and who to contact if you have questions or problems. This article will guide new homeowners through the post-purchase steps, offering valuable advice and information.

The Deed: The Formal Transfer of Ownership

The deed represents the culminating moment in the purchase of real estate . It is the formal act by which the transfer of ownership takes place, making the transaction between seller and buyer official. But what exactly does it imply?

• Difference between Compromise and Deed: While the compromise is a preliminary contract that establishes the intentions of the parties , the deed is the final act that formalizes the transfer of ownership. It is essential to understand that only with the deed does the purchase become effective and binding.
• The Notary’s Role: The notary plays a crucial role during the deed. Not only drafts the act, but also verifies the regularity of the necessary documents and of the transaction, making sure that everything complies with cadastral and building regulations. Before the signing, the notary publicly reads the contract to the parties, providing clarification of crucial passages. Once signed, the deed is officially recorded, and a copy is given to both the seller and the buyer.

The Handing Over of the Keys and the Release of the Property

Handing over the keys is a symbolic but crucial moment in the purchase of a home. Mark the official start of your new adventure as an owner. Generally, delivery takes place immediately after the signing of the deed.

However, it is essential to clearly establish with the seller when delivery will take place and when the property will be completely vacant. This agreement prevents misunderstandings and potential conflicts. If the seller does not honor the agreement and does not vacate the property as agreed, you may find yourself in a complicated situation.

Before taking legal action, it is always advisable to attempt an amicable settlement, perhaps with the assistance of the real estate agency that handled the sale. However, if negotiations fail, you may have to consult a lawyer to protect your rights.

Property Vices and Defects: How to Protect Yourself

After taking possession of the property, you may discover defects or problems that were not apparent during the visits such as a non-functioning boiler after home purchase, water infiltration, structural problems, or damage to the electrical system.

These hidden defects, as they are often called, are defects that are not immediately visible but may impair the use of the property or significantly reduce its value.

The law offers protection to buyers in such cases. If you discover a hidden defect, you are entitled to legal protection, but it is essential to act quickly. The seller could be held liable for these defects unless he can prove that he was unaware of the problems. If this happens, you may be entitled to compensation or, in some cases, termination of the contract.

If you notice problems in your new home, the first step is to contact the real estate agency or notary who handled the sale. They will be able to advise you on how to proceed and whether legal action should be taken. In addition, it may be helpful to consult a lawyer specializing in real estate law to get a clear understanding of your rights and possible actions to take.

The Role of the Real Estate Agency Post-Purchase

After the purchase is completed, the real estate agency does not disappear from the scene. Indeed, it can become a key reference point for the new owner.

In fact, the agency has every interest in ensuring that the client remains satisfied even in the post-sale phase. If problems or concerns about the property arise, theagency can step in as a mediator, facilitating communication between the parties and helping to find solutions.

In addition, many agencies offer post-sale consulting services, through which you can receive support on legal, technical, or bureaucratic issues related to your newly purchased property.

Contacting the Previous Owner: When and How

After taking possession of the new home, the need may arise to contact the previous owner to clarify certain aspects of the property.

This may be for various reasons: perhaps you want to know more about the history of the house, or you have specific questions about installations and maintenance. In any case, it is essential to approach the previous owner with respect and tact, trying to establish constructive communication.

If the relationship with the seller was not particularly friendly during the buying phase, it may be helpful to ask the real estate agency to step in as an intermediary, facilitating communication and ensuring that questions are answered.

Reselling Your Home After a Short Time: What to Consider

The decision to resell a property shortly after purchase is never easy and can result from a variety of reasons. However, before making a hasty decision, it is essential to carefully evaluate the situation.

The housing market is constantly changing, and the conditions that were in place at the time of purchase may no longer be the same. In addition, reselling a property incurs costs, such as agency fees, and may have tax implications. Before putting the house up for sale again, it is therefore crucial to reflect on one’s motives and consider whether there are more affordable alternatives to selling.

Paperwork After House Purchase

After the excitement of becoming a new homeowner, it is important not to neglect the post-purchase paperwork that is critical to the proper management of your new property. These procedures are essential to ensure that everything is in order and to avoid unpleasant surprises in the future.

Residency Transfer After Home Purchase

After purchasing your new home, it is crucial to proceed with the transfer of residence. This paperwork not only formalizes your change of address but is also necessary to access certain tax breaks for your first home. Remember that you have 18 months from the deed to apply for a transfer at the registry office of your new municipality of residence.

IMU and TASI Declaration

One of the first things to do after purchasing a new home is to declare IMU and TASI property taxes. This must be done by June 30 of the year following the purchase of the property. It is important to specify whether the property purchased is intended to become your first home because, if so, you may not be required to pay these taxes.

TARI Complaint

TARI, the waste tax, must be reported to the municipality of residence. It is essential to inform the local government of your move to avoid paying the tax twice. Be sure to make this communication promptly to adjust the amount due to your new housing situation.

Communication to the Condominium Administrator

Inform the building manager of your purchase by handing over a copy of the deed. By doing so, the administrator will be able to update the condominium registry and provide you with all the necessary information related to the condominium bylaws and common expense sharing fees.

Vulture of Utilities

Utility turn-over is an essential step that allows you to take over essential services such as electricity, gas and water. Unlike takeover, turn-over keeps the existing contract active without the need to reactivate the meters. It will be sufficient to provide the new supplier with the previous owner’s data and the last meter reading.

Other Practices to Consider

Property Insurance

Don’t forget to take out an insurance policy for your new home. This will protect you from any damages or claims, ensuring your peace of mind and the security of your investment.

Review of Installations

It is recommended to have the electrical and plumbing systems checked by a professional to make sure they are up to code and in working order. This will help you prevent future problems and ensure that your home is safe.

Updating Identity Documents

Finally, remember to update your IDs with your new residential address. This step is important to maintain consistency of your master data on all official documents.

After Buying a House: The Journey as a New Homeowner

Buying a home is a journey, not a destination. While signing the deed and handing over the keys may seem like the end of the road, it is actually only thebeginning of a new phase. As a new owner, you will face a number of challenges and decisions, some of which you may not have anticipated.

Whether solving unexpected problems with the property, establishing communication with the previous owner, or considering resale, being prepared and informed is essential.

In addition to this, it will be important to take time to do those essential paperwork after the purchase of the new home such as the change of residence, notifying the condominium administrator, and turning over utilities.

Fortunately, you are not alone on this path. Real estate agencies such as Idee & Immobili, notaries and other industry professionals are there to assist you, offering advice and support when you need it.