Settling in: Your next steps after buying a new home in Brighton

Welcome to your new home in Brighton, Ontario! Some new residents arrive from nearby towns looking for more space and peace of mind, while others leave the fast pace of the city behind in search of community and connection. Whatever brought you here, you’ve chosen a place that proudly welcomes newcomers.

For new homeowners, that sense of belonging often begins right after the papers are signed. Once the boxes are unpacked and the keys are in hand, the real work of settling in begins. This guide walks you through what happens after closing day. From getting your essentials in place and familiarizing yourself with your new home, to exploring local services and meeting your new neighbours, we’ve broken down the next steps into manageable parts so you can feel confident and ready for what’s ahead.

#1 Set up the essentials

The first few days after getting the keys to your new home are exciting, but there are a few must-do tasks to help you adjust to your new space. Think of this phase as laying the groundwork for a secure, functional, and comfortable home life.

While it may not be as fun as picking out new furniture or planning a backyard BBQ, getting these foundational tasks in order early makes everything else easier.

Update your address

Before the boxes are even unpacked, make sure your mail knows where to find you. In Canada, it’s your responsibility to update your address with both federal and provincial services, and many institutions require notification soon after a move.

Here’s a quick checklist to help you stay on track:

• Set up mail forwarding with Canada Post: Submit your address change online or visit your nearest post office. This ensures nothing important gets lost in the shuffle.

• Update your driver’s licence and health card with ServiceOntario: By law, you must update your licence within six days of moving. You can do this in person or through the ServiceOntario website.

• Notify key contacts:
  • Your bank and credit card providers
  • Your employer and payroll administrator
  • Insurance companies (home, auto, life)
  • Your lawyer or legal services provider
  • Any subscription services (streaming, magazines, etc.)
  • Your children’s schools and extracurricular programs

Taking care of these updates early helps avoid misdirected bills, missed notices, or delays in service.

Transfer or set up your utilities

Nothing slows down a move like showing up at a cold, dark house. Setting up your utilities ahead of time guarantees a smoother transition.

Here’s who to contact in Brighton:

Electricity: Hydro One

• To open a new account, call 1-888-664-9376
• For power outages, call 1-800-434-1235

Natural Gas: Enbridge Gas

• Call 1-888-774-3111 to set up service

Water and Sewer: Municipality of Brighton

• To open an account, submit the appropriate Water Wastewater Utility Account form or email the Water Billing Clerk.
• For inquiries, contact the Water and Wastewater Billing Clerk at 613-475-0670 ext. 211

Internet, Phone, Cable

• Providers include Bell Canada, Cogeco, Xplore, Kingston, Lakeshore Internet, and Reach Net, offering a range of plans for internet, TV, and phone services.

Visit Brighton’s official website for contact details and other information.

Secure your new home

Whether it’s your first house or your fifth, taking a few steps to secure your property helps protect your peace of mind.

• Change the locks or rekey them. You never know who might have had copies.
• Inspect all doors and windows to make sure they close securely and latch properly.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace the batteries if needed.
• Check outdoor lighting and motion sensors, especially if you’re moving in during fall or winter months when daylight is shorter.
• If the home came with an existing security system, contact the provider to transfer or reset service to your name. If not, this is a good time to explore options that suit your household’s needs.

These practical steps help transform your new Brighton, Ontario, home from a structure into a safe, livable space and set the tone for all the great memories to come.

#2 Know your home inside and out

After the keys are in your hand, it’s time to get familiar with the systems that keep your home running smoothly. Even if you had a thorough home inspection, it’s a good idea to walk through the property and locate important shut-offs, safety features, and areas that might need attention.

Locate key systems

Make sure you can identify and access the following:

• Main water shut-off valve – Usually located in the basement or utility area, this valve controls the water supply to your entire home. Knowing how to turn it off is crucial in case of a plumbing emergency.

• Circuit breaker panel – Label each breaker clearly if it hasn’t already been done. This saves time and stress if you ever lose power or need to cut electricity to a specific area.

• Gas shut-off – If your home has natural gas, locate the shut-off valve near your meter. For safety reasons, only turn off your gas if you suspect a leak and call your utility provider right away.

• Sump pump – Check that your sump pump is functioning, especially if you’re moving in during a rainy season. Make sure it’s plugged in, upright, and free of debris.

Review your home inspection report

If you had a home inspection before purchasing, now’s the time to review the report again. Pay special attention to:

• Deferred maintenance items like an aging HVAC system, roofing issues, or worn seals on windows and doors.

• Recommendations for follow-up evaluations, such as plumbing or electrical assessments, that may not have been urgent during the purchase but are now worth scheduling.

• Seasonal tasks like gutter cleaning, grading checks, or exterior caulking that could be added to your home maintenance calendar.

Use this report as your guide for short-term fixes and longer-term planning. It’s a helpful tool to keep your new investment in top shape.

Schedule any immediate repairs

Even in newer homes, there are often small items that need attention within the first few weeks. Whether it’s changing a lock, fixing a leaky tap, or sealing a drafty window, taking care of these tasks early prevents bigger headaches later.

If you need assistance, Brighton has a network of reliable local tradespeople who can assist with everything from plumbing and HVAC to painting and home security.

#3 Connect with your new community services

Once you’ve gotten comfortable in your new home, the next step is getting familiar with local services. These basics will help you stay organized, informed, and in step with day-to-day life in your new town.

Check in with the municipal office

The Municipality of Brighton operates out of the Administration Office at 35 Alice Street. While there’s no formal registration for new residents, this is your go-to location for accessing local services. You can:

• Ask about recreational programs, dog tags, or parking permits
• Apply for building or renovation permits
• Inquire about property taxes, local bylaws, and garbage pickup schedules

Set up your property tax account

To set up a new property tax account or for billing questions, visit this website or contact the Taxation Clerk at 613-475-0670 ext. 200.

Payments can be made:

• At the Administration Office
• Through pre-authorized debit
• By online or telephone banking
• At your financial institution or by mail

Learn the local waste and recycling schedule

Curbside waste collection in Brighton is managed by Northumberland County, with weekly pickup for garbage, organics, and recycling every Thursday. Leaf and yard waste are collected separately from April through mid-December.

While the set-out day is Monday, collection can happen on any weekday (depending on the route), so it’s best to leave your yard waste out early until it’s picked up. New homeowners who need a blue box or green bin can contact Northumberland County Garbage and Recycling.

#4 Meet your neighbours and explore the community

Moving to a new place isn’t just about unpacking boxes; it’s about forming new connections and growing your community. One of the things new residents love most is how easy it is to connect with others, both casually and through local events and groups.

Start simple: introduce yourself to your neighbours when you see them outside, or strike up a conversation during a walk around the block. These everyday encounters go a long way in building familiarity and creating a sense of belonging.

When you’re ready to branch out beyond casual hellos, try local Facebook groups, neighbourhood message boards, or bulletin boards at the Brighton Public Library. These are great places to learn about upcoming events, swap recommendations, or ask questions about local services.

Public spaces where you’ll find community

• King Edward Park
  Centrally located and full of activity, this park is a hub for local sports leagues, playground playdates, and seasonal community programs. It’s a great place to meet other families while watching a game, attending a class, or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon.

• Presqu’ile Provincial Park
  From peaceful walks and birdwatching to simply relaxing by the water, this beloved park draws a steady stream of locals and visitors alike. You’re likely to meet fellow nature lovers on a morning hike, swap tips with other families at the beach, or connect during one of the park’s interpretive programs.

• Proctor Park Conservation Area
  A quieter, wooded setting perfect for walking the dog or snowshoeing in winter. You’ll find that frequent visitors become familiar faces, and a shared love of the outdoors makes it easy to start a conversation with a fellow trail-goer.

• Brighton Barn Theatre
  For those drawn to arts and culture, volunteering or attending a performance here is a natural way to get involved. Located at Proctor Park, it’s a welcoming environment where locals come together for entertainment and connection—no stage experience required.

• YMCA Northumberland – Brighton
  Offering everything from swim lessons to yoga, the local YMCA is more than just a gym. It’s a year-round gathering space where newcomers can join programs, meet like-minded residents, and get involved in wellness events for all ages.

As you spend time in these shared spaces, there’s a good chance you’ll start seeing familiar faces, chatting about weekend plans, and feeling more in tune with the pace and personality of your new community.

#5 Personalize your space

Once you’ve explored Brighton’s trails, met a few neighbours, and settled into the local rhythm, it’s natural to turn your attention homeward. Making your space feel personal and comfortable is a rewarding part of the transition.

Start by unpacking key areas like the kitchen and bedrooms, then think about how your home can reflect your lifestyle. A reading nook, a front porch setup, or a home office with backyard views can go a long way.

Many Brighton homeowners begin with small upgrades in their first year, like planting perennials, repainting, or updating fixtures. These simple changes add comfort and value. For larger plans, keep a list of ideas and start building relationships with local contractors and garden centres.

Local places to help you personalize your home:

• Pare’s Home Hardware – 11 Oliphant St, Brighton, ON
  A one-stop shop for tools, paint, plumbing and electrical supplies, housewares, and seasonal garden products. It’s also a local source for giftware, sporting goods, and farm essentials.

• Mike and Lori’s Garden – 15617 County Rd 2, Brighton, ON
  This locally owned garden centre offers a wide range of products, including flowers, vegetables, trees, soil, mulch, décor, and more.

• TrueNorth Garden Centre – 59 Hutchinson Rd, Warkworth, ON
  TrueNorth Garden Centre, less than 20 minutes from Brighton, offers field-grown daylilies, unique perennials, and pre-bagged soil in the hills just south of Warkworth.

• Erin Golloher Designs – 246 Ridge Rd, Brighton, ON
  Erin Golloher Design offers curated home décor and personalized styling services to help new homeowners create inviting, character-filled spaces. The shop features a thoughtful mix of vintage pieces, modern accents, and seasonal touches.

• Special Effects Lifestyle Boutique – 85 Main St, Brighton, ON
  This boutique offers timeless home furnishings, accents, and textiles, along with custom design, remodeling, and re-upholstery services to help new homeowners create spaces that reflect their style.

Most importantly, take your time. Moving into a new home in Brighton, Ontario is a process, and personalizing it is about more than décor. It’s about building routines, adding warmth, and creating a space that feels like it belongs to you.

#6 Planning for the future

After the initial move-in dust has settled and you’re starting to feel grounded, it’s worth turning your attention to long-term planning. A few proactive steps now can go a long way toward protecting your home and your investment.

Start a home maintenance calendar

Routine upkeep is key to protecting your investment. Create a seasonal checklist with reminders for tasks like checking your sump pump, clearing eavestroughs, servicing your furnace or HVAC, and sealing driveway cracks. Mark recurring tasks in your calendar or use a digital home management app to stay organized year-round.

Review your homeowner’s insurance

Make sure your policy still fits your needs now that you’ve moved in. Confirm your coverage details, especially if you’ve made upgrades, added valuables, or plan to rent out part of your property. If you aren’t sure what’s included, ask your broker or provider for a policy review.

Create a simple emergency plan

It doesn’t have to be complicated. Identify shut-off valves, fire extinguisher locations, and exit routes. Keep a list of emergency contacts and utility providers on hand, and prepare a basic emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, and water. Knowing what to do ahead of time brings peace of mind for you and your family.

Start your next chapter in Brighton

Buying a new home in Brighton, Ontario marks the start of a whole new lifestyle. From setting up your utilities and getting to know your neighbourhood, to personalizing your space and planning for the future, these next steps will help you feel grounded, prepared, and part of something lasting.

If you’re already settling in, I hope this guide helps you feel more confident and connected in your new home. And for those of you who are still exploring homes for sale in Brighton, Ontario, I’d be happy to share local insight and offer support as you make your decision.

I’m Jacqueline Pennington, and as a long-time real estate professional deeply familiar with Brighton real estate, I’m here to make your transition as smooth and rewarding as possible. Reach out at 905-375-0062 or send me an email to make the most of your move and feel at home in Brighton.