The move-in checklist

Before the truck arrives

Utilities transfer first — Meralco, water district and internet need applications days ahead, and for resale homes the previous owner's accounts must be settled or transferred, not just assumed dead. Get the homeowners' association or condo admin clearance early too: most villages and buildings want a move-in form, an elevator booking for condos, and sometimes a refundable damage deposit.

• Meralco service application — ID, proof of ownership or occupancy, and settle any arrears on the meter.
• Water district transfer — Manila Water/Maynilad or the local district office.
• Internet — book the install; slot wait times run weeks in some areas.
• HOA/condo admin — move-in clearance, elevator reservation, gate pass for the truck.

Handover day

Walk the property with the keys in hand and check everything against what was promised — included appliances, fixtures, parking slot numbers, the meter readings photographed at handover. Take meter photos yourself: they are the clean break between the seller's bills and yours.

Change the locks. Previous owners, caretakers and agents may all hold copies — rekeying is the cheapest security you will ever buy.

The paper aftercare

The title transfer may still be processing when you move in — track the BIR Certificate Authorizing Registration and the Registry of Deeds issuance, and file the new tax declaration at the assessor once the title prints. Update your registered address where it matters: bank, employer, government IDs.