Before purchasing your first home, it’s good to know what to expect. Homeownership is a major milestone and of course, you’ll want to take care of your investment. To navigate the first year in your house, here are tips for new homeowners.
Helpful Tips for New Homeowners
Hire a Reliable Handyman
There will likely be repairs and maintenance to take care of in your new home. Rather than trying to do everything yourself, have a reliable handyman you can call for help. Ask your real estate agent or talk to your neighbors to get recommendations for a trustworthy and reliable repair person.
Tips for New Homeowners: Insure Your Property
When buying a home, make sure to purchase insurance to protect the property. Homeowners insurance will give you peace of mind that your house and your belongings are covered in case of a disaster.
Keep an Eye on Energy Consumption
To be a better homeowner, track your energy consumption. Look for ways to make your home more energy-efficient. This will help you save money on your monthly bills and keep your house comfortable no matter the season.
Create a Home Maintenance Schedule
There are regular tasks you’ll need to complete to keep your home in great condition. To keep track of your to-do list, create a maintenance schedule. Regular care and upkeep will help you catch problems before they become major concerns.
Know Your Neighbors: an Important Tip for New Homeowners
Introduce yourself to your neighbors. When you develop relationships with them, you’ll have a sense of community and friends nearby. Being in touch with the people in your community also helps to improve safety and security in the neighborhood.
Keep a Notebook
Homeownership can be overwhelming when things are not well-organized. Keep your important documents and paperwork in a safe place. Designate a binder to keep track of receipts, insurance documents, construction contracts and permits, and any other paperwork that is related to the maintenance and upkeep of the property.
Tips for New Homeowners: Invest in a Tool Kit
Owning a home sometimes means taking care of minor repairs and maintenance tasks yourself. This is possible when you have a well-stocked toolbox. Purchase a few basic tools, including a hammer, a set of screwdrivers, and a tape measure so that you can handle minor projects around the house.
Be Prepared for an Emergency
You never know when a natural disaster might strike and your home loses power. Be prepared for this type of situation by making an emergency kit. Include non-perishable food, bottled water, first-aid supplies, flashlights, and a hand-crank radio to stay safe in an emergency situation.
Take Inventory is One of the Best Tips for New Homeowners
To be prepared, make a home inventory list. Keep track of your belongings in case of theft, fire, or flood. Your insurance company will ask for a list detailing the valuables in your home. Make a spreadsheet and a video of the things you own and store both securely online.
Change the Locks
When moving into a new home, there’s no telling who may have keys to your property. The previous owners may have given keys to babysitters, pet sitters, family, and neighbors. Change the locks when you first move in for a perfect first home improvement project.
JW Goad Home Inspections offers inspection to customers in Clarksville, TN, and the surrounding areas. Contact us to request an appointment.