What to do after buying an apartment: essential steps
Buying an apartment is an important step, but the process doesn't end with signing the papers. Once you become an owner, there are a number of essential steps to take to ensure that your new home is fully functional, safe, and tailored to your needs. Here's what to do after buying an apartment. Whether it's your first purchase or not, it's essential to know what to do after buying an apartment to ensure a smooth transition.
1. Registration of property with the competent authorities
Whether we are talking about new 2-room apartment in Brașov, studio, or 3-room apartment, the first step after signing the sale-purchase contract is to register the new apartment registered in your name at the Tax Directorate, within 30 days. To facilitate the process of declaring the property, we can represent you at the Tax Directorate and submit the tax returns in order to determine the tax on land and buildings, if you authorize us to take all the necessary steps on your behalf.
2. Change of owner of utilities
To avoid interruptions or complications, the owner of the utility providers, namely electricity and natural gas, must be changed.
The Rokman team will support you in these steps, also based on powers of attorney through which you will mandate us to transfer the utilities to your name.
3. Homeowners Association
We, Rokman, will take all legal steps to establish the Owners Association. This aims to ensure the normal functioning conditions from a legal, economic and technical point of view, for the administration and exploitation of the building in which you will live. Moreover, the owners association has among its duties the representation of the owners before the service providers, therefore it will be able to conclude contracts with them, including the drinking water and waste service provider. Therefore, the transfer to the operators will be carried out by the management of the association.
All you have to do as an owner is register with the owners association. Here you will find details about the building rules, maintenance, cleaning schedule and other obligations of the tenants, which will also be found in the Internal Order Regulations, a perfect guide for all Condominium owners.
4. Home insurance
It is recommended to take out a home insurance policy, regardless of whether you choose between new 3-room apartments in Brașov, with two bedrooms, house or studio. In Romania, annual PAD insurance against natural disasters (earthquakes, floods, landslides) is mandatory, but you can add optional insurance for damages caused by fire, theft or other risks.
5. Checking installations and making necessary repairs
Even if the apartment is new, it is a good idea to check the electrical, plumbing and heating installations. This is an essential step in what you need to do after buying an apartment to avoid unpleasant surprises. Some things to keep in mind:
- Test the outlets and switches.
- Check the faucets, pipes, and drainage system.
- Make sure that the boiler or heating system is working properly.
- Basement – If the apartment includes a basement, check its condition, make sure there are no infiltration problems and that access is secure.
If you have purchased an old apartment, partial or total renovation may be necessary to bring it up to the desired standards.
6. Furnishing and arranging the apartment
Once you've made sure everything is working properly, the creative part comes next: furnishing and decorating. You can choose:
- Standard furniture – quick and affordable solutions from specialized stores.
- Custom furniture – personalized for the space and style you desire.
- Efficient appliances – to reduce energy consumption and long-term costs.
7. Change of address in official documents
Don't forget to update your home address on your ID card. This is necessary for official correspondence, car registration, banking, and other institutions.
8. Securing your home
Regardless of the area, it's a good idea to take security measures for your new home:
- Install an alarm system.
9. Creation of a maintenance and repair fund
Even if the apartment is new, unforeseen expenses will arise. It is advisable to set aside a monthly amount for minor repairs, maintenance of installations and improvements.
10. Getting to know your neighbors and integrating into the community
A harmonious environment means good relations with your neighbors. Get to know them, attend association meetings, and respect the rules of coexistence.
Buying an apartment is just the beginning of a new chapter. To fully enjoy your home, it is important to go through all these essential steps. A careful and organized approach will help you have a smooth and hassle-free transition, transforming your apartment into a true home.
