How to Transfer MyQ Garage Door Openers When You Buy a New Home

We had a call from a customer recently — let’s call him John.

John had just moved into a new home, and the garage door was equipped with a LiftMaster opener that had Wi-Fi capability and MyQ technology. Sounds great, right?

Well, there was one problem…

When John tried to set up the MyQ app on his phone, it kept telling him the opener was already registered — to the previous owner. And in the process of fiddling with the settings, his garage door remote stopped working altogether. The only way he could open the door was by pressing the wall button.

Why This Happens

When a home changes hands, any connected garage door opener with MyQ still “belongs” to the original MyQ account it was set up under — unless the old owner removes it. Think of it like a smart TV or security camera that’s still signed into someone else’s account.

Until that connection is cleared, you won’t be able to add the opener to your own MyQ account.

Steps to Take When You Move Into a Home With a MyQ Opener

1. Check if the Opener is Already Linked
   Download the MyQ app and try to add the device. If it’s already linked to someone else, you’ll get an error message.

2. Erase the Opener’s Memory
   On most LiftMaster openers, you can hold down the “Learn” button (usually on the back or side of the unit) until the LED light goes out — about 6–10 seconds. This clears all remote controls, keypads, and MyQ connections.

3. Reprogram Your Remotes and Keypads
   Since clearing the memory wipes everything, you’ll need to pair your remotes again. This is a good time to get extras if you only have one — John found out the hard way that one remote isn’t enough.

4. Set Up the MyQ App
   Once the opener’s memory is clear, follow the in-app instructions to connect it to your Wi-Fi. Note: Some older LiftMaster Wi-Fi models require an Internet Gateway device to connect — newer models have Wi-Fi built in.

Why Call a Pro?

In John’s case, we scheduled a visit for the very next day. Not only did we get his remote working again, but we also:

• Cleared the old MyQ account from the opener

• Set up his new MyQ connection

• Provided him with an extra remote for convenience

For many homeowners, it’s faster (and less frustrating) to have a technician handle the reset and programming. We can also spot other potential issues while we’re there.

If you’ve just moved into a home with a LiftMaster MyQ opener and can’t get it to work with your phone — or you’re down to one remote — give us a call. We’ll make sure you’re fully set up and in control of your garage door.