The Ultimate Move-In Checklist for Walnut Creek Condo Buyers
Everything You Need to Do After Closing — Step by Step
Congrats — You Bought a Condo. Now What?
You’ve signed the papers, grabbed the keys, and officially become the owner of a Walnut Creek condo.
Now comes the part no one talks about: the move-in process.
Condo living has its perks — convenience, walkability, amenities — but the transition into a condo is different from moving into a single-family home.
There are HOA procedures, building protocols, and local services you must set up to make your first days stress-free.
This is your complete move-in checklist — designed specifically for Walnut Creek condo owners.
Step 1: Schedule Your Move with the HOA
Most Walnut Creek condo communities require you to:
Reserve your move-in date
Book the elevator (if applicable)
Pay a move-in fee or refundable elevator deposit
Submit your moving company info
Provide proof of insurance
If you skip this step, expect:
Fines
Delays
Angry neighbors
An HOA that remembers your name for all the wrong reasons
Check your CC&Rs and HOA onboarding packet, or revisit:
👉 How to Read HOA Documents Like a Pro
Step 2: Set Up Your Utilities
Depending on your building, some utilities may already be included in your HOA dues. But in most Walnut Creek condos, you’ll need to set up:
Utilities to Activate Immediately:
PG&E (Gas & Electricity)
Water (in many condos, this is HOA-covered)
Internet (Xfinity or AT&T Fiber are most common)
Trash / Recycling (often HOA-handled but not always)
Make sure to ask your HOA which utilities are included — it varies dramatically by building.
For more on hidden costs, revisit:
👉 The Hidden Costs of Condo Ownership in Walnut Creek
Step 3: Update Your Address Everywhere
Don’t forget to update your:
Driver’s license
Vehicle registration (DMV requires address changes within 10 days)
Bank accounts
Credit cards
Online shopping profiles
Employer HR systems
Insurance policies
And don’t forget important physical mail:
IRS & California FTB
Social Security, pension, or benefits
Voter registration
Healthcare providers
Step 4: Get to Know Your HOA (It Will Make Your Life Easier)
Your HOA is your partner in condo living — and understanding the basics will prevent countless headaches.
Learn:
How to pay HOA dues
Where visitor parking is allowed
Which days are trash collection
How to submit maintenance tickets
Who to contact for emergencies
Pet rules
Noise rules
Amenity hours (pool, gym, clubhouse)
Being a “good neighbor” starts with knowing the rules.
For deeper insight into HOA structure, see:
👉 What to Watch Out for: HOA & Building Issues in Walnut Creek Condos
Step 5: Change the Locks (Including Smart Locks and Mailbox Keys)
Even in a condo building, it’s wise to:
Replace door locks
Reprogram smart locks (if provided)
Get new mailbox keys (contact USPS or HOA)
Your unit may have been shown to dozens of agents and buyers — not to mention contractors.
Changing locks is a small investment for significant peace of mind.
Step 6: Review All Building Access Systems
Most Walnut Creek condos use:
Fob or keycard entry
Garage remotes
Gate codes
Package room codes
Intercom systems
Test everything before move-in day.
If something doesn’t work, send an HOA request right away.
Step 7: Walk Your Neighborhood
Living in Walnut Creek is about lifestyle — so get to know it.
Explore:
Coffee shops
The Iron Horse Trail
Civic Park
Broadway Plaza
Grocery stores
Fitness studios
Restaurants and wine bars
Your nearest BART access route
Whether you live downtown or in Heather Farms, location defines your daily rhythm.
Learn more in:
👉 Neighborhoods & Location: Finding the Right Spot for Your Walnut Creek Condo
Step 8: Meet the Neighbors
A friendly introduction goes a long way in condo living.
Neighbors can help with:
Package pickups
Maintenance tips
HOA updates
Local recommendations
Plus, knowing the people on your floor makes the building feel like home.
Step 9: Review Your Insurance Coverage
You’ll want two policies:
1. HO-6 Condo Policy
Covers:
Interior finishes
Cabinets and flooring
Personal belongings
Liability
HOA master-policy deductibles
2. HOA Master Policy
Make sure coverage aligns with your needs.
Insurance has become more complicated in California — so reviewing coverage early is smart.
Step 10: Celebrate Your New Home
This is more than a move — it’s an upgrade in lifestyle.
Whether you downsized, relocated, or bought your first home, treat yourself to a night out in downtown Walnut Creek or a hike on Shell Ridge.
You earned this.
The Bottom Line
Moving into a Walnut Creek condo is an exciting new chapter — and with the right checklist, it can be seamless.
If you want help understanding your HOA, your building, or your neighborhood, I’m here to make the experience simple.
👉 Search Walnut Creek Condos on RealScout
📧 brendan@the5starteam.com