First year in a country house: newcomer 12-month checklist

2026-09-03 · 4 min read · MARDECO

House bought, key in hand — 12 months ahead with 30+ steps. Papers, account transfers, kit, first pool season, first winter. Checklist from day one to December 2026.

1. First week — fast moves

First 7 days: 1) Confirm Cadastre registration (e-mulk.gov.az); 2) New key set (2-3 sets, one with a neighbour); 3) Replace the lock (seller's key may be with strangers); 4) Transfer «Azerishig», «Azeriqaz», «Azersu» accounts — 15 working days; 5) Save emergency numbers.

2. First month — get to know the house

First 30 days: 1) Test all systems (boiler, AC, pool pump, drainage); 2) Fully refresh pool water (previous chlorine dose unknown); 3) Replace HVAC filters; 4) Sign insurance policy; 5) Meet 5 closest neighbours.

3. First costs — real numbers

First 6 months: account transfers + lock 300-600 AZN; pool refresh 400-800; HVAC filters 200-500; insurance year 500-800; kit 800-2,500. Total 2,200-5,200 AZN. Usually more than a newcomer expects.

4. Seasonal calendar — 12 months

Month by month: Jan-Feb winter check (insulation, gas bill); Mar-Apr pool opening (400-800 AZN); May-Sep active season; Oct pool closing (200-400); Nov-Dec pre-winter check. Monthly checklist — no surprises.

First 6 months of costs — real

The first year in a country house is a «getting-to-know» period. Over 12 months the real state of the systems shows up and the seasonal rhythm is learnt. From year two the house is a stable «operating asset».

Five things from day one

• Change the lock — seller's key may be in the wild.
• Transfer accounts in the first week (else debts remain on seller).
• Refresh the pool — water chemistry unknown.
• Insurance in the first month.
• Neighbours — contacts of the closest five.

See also: moving to Mardakan, hidden costs, home insurance.