Closing day in Marvin comes with a security question nobody at the closing table mentions: you have no idea how many copies of your new house key exist. Builders, contractors, cleaners, neighbors of the previous owner, the previous owner's college kids — house keys multiply over the years. Here's the new-homeowner playbook we recommend across Marvin's neighborhoods.
Rekey First — Same Day You Get Keys
Rekeying changes the pins inside your existing locks so old keys stop working — no hardware replaced, all exterior doors keyed to one new key. It's the highest-value security move a new homeowner can make: typically $20-$40 per lock cylinder plus a service call, so a whole Marvin home usually lands between $150 and $350. Compare that with replacing quality hardware at $75-$300+ per door before labor.
When Replacement Beats Rekeying
Rekey when the hardware is good; replace when it isn't. Marvin's housing stock is largely 1990s-onward custom and semi-custom construction — most of it carries decent-quality locks worth keeping. Replace instead if you find builder-grade bottom-tier hardware, damaged or sticking mechanisms, or if you want to upgrade security grade (look for ANSI Grade 1 or 2 deadbolts).
Smart Locks for Marvin Homes
The smart-lock question comes up on almost every Marvin new-homeowner visit. What we install most: keypad deadbolts for kids and cleaners (no phone required), Wi-Fi models for remote unlock and codes-per-person, and retrofit smart locks that keep your existing exterior hardware — the choice HOA-conscious neighborhoods appreciate since curb appearance doesn't change. Budget $150-$350 for quality hardware plus professional installation; cheap smart locks are a false economy on a primary entry.
Don't Forget These Five
- Garage entry door — the most-used and least-secured door in most homes.
- Garage keypad code — previous owner's code still works until you change it.
- Mailbox lock — cluster mailbox keys rarely get handed over complete; we swap these in minutes.
- Sliding door security — factory latches are token; add a proper lock or bar.
- Safe combinations — inherited a safe? Have it reset so only you know it.
The One-Visit Version
All of the above — full-house rekey, deadbolt upgrades where needed, a smart lock on the primary entry, mailbox swap — is one scheduled visit for a Marvin home. Book it the week you close and cross the whole list off at once.
Quick Answers
Can a locksmith make a new key if I lost all my keys?
Yes. Using your VIN and proof of ownership, a locksmith can cut a new key from the vehicle’s key code and program it on-site — no dealership or towing required.
What proof do I need to show the locksmith?
Photo ID plus registration or an insurance card showing you own the vehicle. A locksmith who asks for these is protecting you.
Should I get a spare key made afterwards?
Absolutely. A spare made during a normal appointment costs far less than an emergency all-keys-lost callout ever will.