Call to Connect Utilities
This is one of those tasks that no one thinks about doing ahead of time, but it is crucial, especially if you want the internet working the day you move in. Call at least a week before closing to have your utilities switched into your names as of the closing date. Make sure to get the gas and electric changed into your name. Generally on the Front Range in Colorado you will call Xcel for the electricity and gas service. You’ll also want to call your TV and internet provider (most commonly Comcast) ASAP to set up an appointment for them to come out and install service, and it can take weeks to get the appointment. If you’re buying in a condo building, check with the HOA to see if either cable or internet are included in your HOA fee. If not, find out if there is a certain provider you have to use or if you can use whomever you’d like.
For trash/recycling service, if you have an HOA, those services are generally covered. For single family homes, some cities have one trash service for the whole city. It’s a good idea to check out the trash and recycling bins during the inspection, so that you know which company the Sellers are using. We also request the the seller to fill out a questionnaire to assist with some of this info Seller Questionnaire.
The title company takes care of switching the water service into your name after closing.
Questions about home buying in Colorado? Reach out to the Appreciate Realty CO to work with a top Denver real estate agent. Call/Text us at (303)956-4948 or email us at hello@appreciaterealtyco.com