A List of Things to do When Buying a House in Naples

Buying a new home or condo in Naples comes with a short list of tasks that you will want to complete. Luckily, they're all very easy and I recommend doing many of these just before closing. There's no need to wait!

Get Your Utilities and Mail in Order

Get your television ordered

The two most popular options for television in Naples are XFinity and DirecTV. Both often have a delay in getting an appointment so definitely get on their schedule before your closing date. If closing doesn't happen on time, you can always reschedule the appointment.

Also, consider streaming your TV. There are so many streaming services out there and some offer great TV packages for very good prices. Check out YouTube TV for example.

Order Internet access

XFinity and CenturyLink are the two main service providers for Internet in Naples. Ask both about deals when you bundle TV and Internet.

Transfer electric into your name

When you're buying an existing home or condo, the current owners have electricity of course. That means all that you need to do is have the service transferred into your name. Our electric company here is Florida Power and Light (FPL) and they have a great page to change service into your name. Under our real estate contract, the current owner must keep the service on until closing so order electric in your name to be started as of your closing date. Feel free to do this ahead of closing.

Water

Collier County has a transfer of property ownership page that details what documents you need to transfer water into your name. Unfortunately, you cannot transfer ownership of the water bill until you own the property so this will have to wait for your closing date to come.

Forward your mail to your new address

This is very easy to do online. Visit the USPS Change of Address site and knock this chore out in no time.

Things to do Once You Own Your Home

File for homestead exemption

There are many benefits to filing for the Florida Homestead Exemption other than reduced property taxes. To keep it brief, have a look at the county's website with all of the details on how to file for homestead exemption in Naples.

Order A/C Filters in bulk from Amazon

Your A/C filters need to be changed monthly and they are very inexpensive when you order them from Amazon. Check the size of the filter and then order here. I like to order 6 at a time and leave them in the garage so I always have one handy.

Sign up for an A/C service plan

Speaking of your new air conditioner… this is one of the most expensive single items in your home so take care of it! The best way to take care of your A/C is to have a service agreement with a reputable company. I highly recommend Conditioned Air. They've been around for ages and do a really great job at a fair price.

Have your dryer vents cleaned

Dryer vents filled with lint are fire hazards and they prevent your dryer from running efficiently. It's inexpensive to have your vents professionally cleaned so take care of that task when you move in. I just recently used a company called Lint Out and they did a great job at a great price. You can reach them at (239) 332-5468."