Should I Rekey or Change My Locks After Buying a House in Cincinnati?
Quick answer: Yes. You should always rekey or change locks after buying a house, ideally before you move in. For example, rekeying (starting at $85) is the faster, more affordable choice when your existing locks are in good shape, and it makes every old key stop working. However, changing your locks (starting at $185) is the better choice when the hardware is worn, damaged, low-security, or you want an upgrade like a smart lock or keypad deadbolt.
When you close on a home in Cincinnati or Northern Kentucky, you get the keys, but you have no idea who else has a copy. For example, previous owners, their family, dog walkers, contractors, real estate agents, and neighbors may all still have keys to your front door. As a result, the smartest first step is to rekey or change locks after buying a house, and it’s one of the most common calls we get as a residential home locksmith in Cincinnati.
So, here’s how to decide which option is right for your home.
Rekey or Change Locks: What Is the Difference?
Rekeying your locks
Rekeying means a locksmith changes the small pins inside your existing lock cylinder so it works with a brand-new key. As a result, the old keys no longer work, even though the lock stays on your door. In addition, it’s quick, cost-effective, and perfect when your current locks are in good working condition.
Changing (replacing) your locks
Changing your locks means removing the old lock hardware and installing a new lockset or deadbolt. Therefore, this makes sense when the locks are old, damaged, hard to turn, or low quality, or when you want better security, a new look, or smart lock features.
Rekey or Change Locks: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Factor | Rekey Locks | Change Locks |
|---|---|---|
| What happens | New pins inside your existing lock | Old hardware removed, new lock installed |
| Old keys stop working? | Yes | Yes |
| Starting price | $85 | $185 |
| Best for | Locks in good condition | Worn, damaged, or low-security locks |
| Security upgrade? | Same security level as before | Can upgrade to high-security, Grade 1 deadbolts, or smart locks |
| One key for all doors? | Yes, if the locks share a keyway | Yes, when new locks are keyed alike |
| Changes the look? | No | Yes, with new finish and style options |
When to Rekey Your Locks After Buying a Home
First, rekeying is usually the smart move when:
- Your locks work smoothly and are in good condition
- You like the look of your current hardware
- You want the most affordable way to lock out old keys
- You want one key for every door (front, back, side, and garage entry)
- You bought a newer or new-construction home where builders, subcontractors, and agents may have had keys
Also, learn more about our lock rekeying service in Cincinnati, the fastest way to secure your new home.
When to Change Your Locks Instead
On the other hand, replacing your locks is the better option when:
- Locks are loose, sticking, rusted, or hard to turn
- The home has older or mismatched hardware, which is common in many historic neighborhoods of Cincinnati
- You have no deadbolt, or a weak, builder-grade one
- There are signs of forced entry or a damaged door frame
- You want to upgrade to a smart lock, keypad deadbolt, or high-security lock
- You want new hardware that matches your style or finish
For more details, see our lock change services in Cincinnati. In addition, if your hardware is broken or worn out, our lock replacement in Cincinnati service covers new deadbolts, knobs, and handlesets.
How Much Does It Cost to Rekey or Change Locks in Cincinnati?
When you rekey or change locks after buying a house, the cost depends on the number of locks, the type of lock, and whether you’re rekeying or installing new hardware. Rekeying costs less than replacing because you keep your existing locks and only pay for new pins and labor.
Lock Rekeying
$85
Starting price
Lock Change
$185
Starting price
Because we’re a mobile locksmith, we come to your home with the tools and hardware to finish most jobs in one visit. Then, simply call (513) 202-4240 for an honest, upfront quote before any work begins, with no surprise fees.
Which Locks Should You Rekey or Change After Moving In?
However, don’t stop at the front door. Instead, a complete new-homeowner lock checklist includes:
- Front door knob and deadbolt
- Back and side doors
- Door from the garage into the house
- Basement and walk-out doors
- Sliding patio door locks
- Mailbox, storm door, and shed or gate locks
- Garage keypad and opener codes (reset them yourself or have them reprogrammed)
Rekey or Change Locks Anywhere in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky
Eagle’s Locksmith Cincinnati is a family-owned mobile locksmith that rekeys and changes residential locks throughout Greater Cincinnati, Southwest Ohio, and Northern Kentucky, including:
Cincinnati Neighborhoods
Downtown Cincinnati, Over-the-Rhine, Mount Adams, Mount Auburn, Walnut Hills, East Walnut Hills, Hyde Park, Oakley, Mount Lookout, Columbia Tusculum, East End, Clifton, Corryville, Northside, College Hill, Mount Airy, Pleasant Ridge, Kennedy Heights, Madisonville, Bond Hill, Roselawn, Evanston, Mount Washington, California, Westwood, West Price Hill, East Price Hill, Covedale, and Sayler Park.
Southwest Ohio
Mason, West Chester, Liberty Township, Loveland, Milford, Miami Township, Goshen, Batavia, Amelia, Union Township, Anderson Township, Newtown, Terrace Park, Mariemont, Indian Hill, Madeira, Kenwood, Montgomery, Symmes Township, Sycamore Township, Blue Ash, Deer Park, Silverton, Amberley Village, Norwood, St. Bernard, Reading, Evendale, Wyoming, Lockland, Glendale, Sharonville, Springdale, Forest Park, Springfield Township, Finneytown, Mount Healthy, Colerain Township, White Oak, Green Township, Bridgetown, Delhi Township, Cheviot, Miami Heights, Cleves, North Bend, Harrison, Fairfield, Hamilton, Ross, Monroe, Middletown, Lebanon, Maineville, South Lebanon, and Springboro.
Northern Kentucky
Covington, Newport, Bellevue, Dayton, Fort Thomas, Southgate, Highland Heights, Cold Spring, Wilder, Alexandria, Ludlow, Park Hills, Fort Wright, Fort Mitchell, Lakeside Park, Crestview Hills, Edgewood, Villa Hills, Erlanger, Elsmere, Florence, Taylor Mill, Independence, Union, Burlington, Hebron, and Walton.
Just bought a home? Secure it today.
Ready to rekey or change locks after buying a house? Rekeying from $85 · Lock changes from $185
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Frequently Asked Questions
Rekey or Change Locks: Cost & Security
Should I rekey or change locks after buying a house?
Rekey if your locks are in good condition and you just want old keys to stop working. It’s also the faster, more affordable option. However, change your locks if they’re worn, damaged, or low-security, or if you want an upgrade like a smart lock or keypad deadbolt.
How much does it cost to rekey or change locks in Cincinnati?
At Eagle’s Locksmith Cincinnati, lock rekeying starts at $85 and lock changes start at $185. However, your final price depends on the number and type of locks. Call (513) 202-4240 for an upfront quote.
Is rekeying a lock as secure as replacing it?
Rekeying is just as effective at stopping old keys from working. However, it keeps the same lock, so the security level stays the same. If you want stronger protection, such as a Grade 1 or high-security deadbolt, replacing the lock is the better choice.
Is it cheaper to rekey or change locks?
Rekeying is cheaper because you keep your existing hardware and only pay for new pins and labor. Changing locks costs more because it includes new lock hardware plus installation.
Keys, Timing & Service Areas
Can all my house locks use one key?
Usually, yes. If your locks share the same keyway, a locksmith can rekey them to work with one key. Otherwise, we can install new locks that are keyed alike, so one key opens every door.
How long does it take to rekey a house?
Rekeying a single lock typically takes only a few minutes. In fact, most homes can be fully rekeyed in one visit, depending on the number and type of locks.
Should I rekey my locks if I bought a new-construction home?
Yes. Builders, subcontractors, inspectors, and real estate agents may have had access to your keys during construction and showings. Therefore, rekeying makes sure you’re the only one with working keys.
Do you rekey and change locks in Northern Kentucky?
Yes. Eagle’s Locksmith Cincinnati serves Northern Kentucky, including Covington, Newport, Florence, Erlanger, Fort Thomas, Independence, and Union, along with Greater Cincinnati and Southwest Ohio.
