Things First-Time Home Buyers Need to Buy
- Posted Jun 7, 2022
Buying a home for the first time is an exciting event, but the work doesn’t stop when you sign on the dotted line. Owning a house involves a lot of set up and maintenance to keep things safe and comfortable. These tips for homebuyers will help you do exactly that. You can use this as a checklist when you shop for the new gadgets and gear to make your first-time home ownership a great experience.
New Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Even if the home you buy has detectors already, they may be woefully out of date or not as sensitive as they should be. Safety matters when it comes to owning a house. After all, you want to protect your investment and your family. Smoke detectors must be operational, connected, and up to code for your local fire prevention recommendations. Carbon monoxide is another serious threat that functional detectors will help you manage.
New Locks on All the Doors
Give your family peace of mind that only you have control of the doors on your new home. Although the former owner is undoubtedly not a thief or has any intention of coming back for a visit, there may be other spare keys floating around out in the world. Perhaps a neighbor has one or one is hidden somewhere on the property in case the owner locked themselves out. Changing all the locks and getting your own keys is one of the top tips for first-time homebuyers.
Home Security Alarm and Cameras
Another essential safety feature in a new home may be a security system that includes both alarms and cameras. Something as simple as a doorbell camera can help stop break-ins and package thieves. They provide a lot of convenience if you do not want to answer your door to a stranger, or are not home during the day. Wireless alarm systems for doors and windows can be set to notify you on your smartphone if anyone comes on your property. There are also options that contact the police and other first responders immediately.
Fire Extinguishers
While a fire alarm and smoke detector are necessary to keep you, your belongings, and your family safe, you should also have fire extinguishers on hand. Buy a brand-new one for the kitchen, the garage, and for storage upstairs in the house as well. This is the minimum amount recommended for fire safety. At the same time, familiarize yourself with how to use one properly so you can help in the case of a small fire event.
Furniture for Every Room
When it comes to things you’ll need if you own a home, furniture purchases may seem obvious. Of course, you undoubtedly have some items from your previous house or apartment. They may not fit your new lifestyle or fill every room sufficiently, though.
Make a checklist of styles and pieces, take measurements, and have some fun shopping for furniture over time.
Curtains, Blinds, or Window Treatments
While window coverings may seem like decor options only, they also provide a degree of security and privacy for your new home. Insulated curtains or blackout shades can also keep your energy costs down if you use them properly to block out the hot sun. Since these can be a considerable expense when you buy new for every window in the house, it makes sense not to skimp on quality in the first place. You will end up replacing them later if they do not give you the look and feel you want.
Complete Home Tool Set
Not only should you buy a toolset with all the basic hammers, screwdrivers, and wrenches inside, but you should also learn how to use them properly. As a first-time homeowner, there is no need for you to become a super handy person or do-it-yourself expert. However, simple repairs around the house do not necessitate a call to a professional and the expense that comes with it. You should be able to hammer in a loose nail on the backyard deck, tighten a screw on a wall shelf bracket, or switch your toilet seat to a brand-new one with ease. If you want to invest a bit more, get some rechargeable power tools like a drill and a small saw at the same time.
Garden Tools and Lawn Equipment
If you have any type of yard or garden around your house, you need to take care of it properly. Even if you hire a landscaping crew for weekly mowing and seasonal hedge trimming, there will be maintenance tasks to tackle in between. Part of the reason you bought a house instead of an apartment or condo is undoubtedly the land around it. Purchase a lawnmower if you do not intend to hire someone to do this job. Also get a rake, shovel, handheld garden tools, a bucket, and a watering can if you want to add some pretty flowers to your porch or backyard.
This list of things you’ll need as a first-time homebuyer only touches on the most important at the start. Safety, privacy, and basic home maintenance are your responsibility now. Of course, you can have a lot of fun buying other items like decorations, tech equipment, new appliances, light fixtures, and other things. You’ll probably also need basics like clothes hangers, kitchen utensils and dishes, bed linens and towels, extension cords, a ladder, garbage cans, and plenty of cleaning supplies. Lastly, do not forget a welcome mat so you can share your new home with friends and family!