Buying your first home is a monumental milestone filled with excitement, anticipation, and a fair share of anxiety. The feeling of achievement that accompanies climbing the real estate ladder is surreal. However, purchasing a home may be a lengthy and complicated process.
Once you have completed your final survey and signed the closing documents, it’s time to start preparing for your new house. Now for the fun part—making your new house feel like home.
This involves decorating, arranging furniture, and adding personal touches that reflect your style. Whether you prefer a modern aesthetic or a cozy, traditional feel, take your time to create a space that feels uniquely yours.
Following are the things you need for your first house:
Get A Free Mortgage QuoteCleaning Supplies
Among the myriads of tasks you will undertake, keeping your new home clean and tidy will be essential to maintaining a comfortable living environment. Here are a few items that will help you get started:
Basic Cleaning Tools
● Broom and Dustpan: Opt for a broom with sturdy bristles that can sweep up everything from crumbs to dust. A dustpan with a rubber edge will help collect even the finest particles.
● Vacuum Cleaner/Robot Vacuum: Choose a model suitable for your flooring type, whether it’s hardwood, carpet, or tile. Go smart for effortless cleaning.
● Mop and Bucket: Microfiber mops are particularly effective at trapping dirt and require less water, making them ideal for both hardwood and tile floors.
● Sponges and Scrub Brushes: Have various sponges and brushes on hand, including a soft sponge for delicate surfaces and a stiff-bristled brush for tougher grime.
● Microfiber Cloths: Microfiber cloths are highly effective for general cleaning because they can pick up and hold dust and dirt without the need for chemicals.
● Paper Towels: While not as environmentally friendly as reusable cloths, paper towels are convenient for quick cleanups, such as grease or raw meat juices.
General Cleaning Products
● All-Purpose Cleaner
● Glass Cleaner
● Disinfectant Spray
● Specialized Cleaners
● Bathroom Cleaner
● Floor Cleaner
Laundry Supplies
● Laundry Detergent
● Stain Remover
● Fabric Softener or Dryer Sheets
Waste Management
● Trash Bags
● Recycling Bins
Miscellaneous Supplies
● Rubber Gloves
● Cleaning Caddy: A cleaning caddy can help keep all your supplies organized and portable. This makes it easier to carry everything you need from room to room while cleaning.
Safety Supplies
Fire Safety Supplies
● Smoke Detectors
● Fire Extinguishers
● Carbon Monoxide Detectors
● Fire Escape Ladder
General Safety Supplies
General safety supplies include some of the most important things you need for your first house. These give you peace of mind that you will be well-prepared in an emergency.
● Flashlights and Batteries
● First Aid Kit: A well-stocked first aid kit should have scissors, tweezers, bandages, adhesive tape, gauze, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and prescription medications. Keep one in the house and another in the car.
● Emergency Contact Information: Make a list of readily available emergency contact numbers (fire department, police, poison control, local hospital).
Home Security Supplies
● Deadbolt Locks
● Security System: Invest in a home security system. Options range from basic alarm systems to more comprehensive setups with cameras and remote monitoring.
● Outdoor Lighting: Install motion-sensor lights around the perimeter of your home to deter intruders.
Maintenance Supplies
● Spare Bulbs
● Various Batteries: Extras for the basic electronics in your house.
● A Toolkit: A basic toolkit should include a screwdriver, hammer, adjustable wrenches, pliers, cordless drill and bits, tape measure, level, and utility knife.
Bedroom Supplies
● Bed Frame and Mattress
● Bedding: Sheets and pillowcases, duvet/comforter and cover, blankets and throws, pillows.
● Nightstands
● Bedside Lamps
● Iron and Ironing Board
● Curtains and Drapes
● Task Lighting: If you have a desk or vanity in your bedroom, ensure you have adequate task lighting. Desk lamps or wall-mounted sconces are excellent choices.
● Seating: If space allows, add a comfortable chair or a small bench at the foot of your bed. This provides a place to sit, read, or put on shoes.
Living Room Supplies
● Sofas
● Coffee Table
● TV
● TV Stand or Entertainment Center
● Rugs
● Curtains or Blinds
● Modem and Router
● Extension Cords
● Overhead Lighting -A ceiling light or chandelier provides general illumination. Consider adding a dimmer switch to adjust the lighting according to the mood.
Kitchen Supplies
As the heart of the home, the kitchen is where meals are crafted, conversations flow, and memories are made. Here are the things you need for your first house:
● Pots and Pans
● Knives
● Cutting Boards
● Cooking Utensils
● Plates and Silverware
● Glasses and Mugs
● Blender
● Toaster
● Microwave
● Food Storage Containers
● Napkins and Placements
● Cabinet Liners
Bathroom Supplies
● Toiletries: Toothbrush and toothpaste, shampoo and conditioner, hand soap, body wash, toilet paper.
● Shower Curtain
● Bath Linens: Bath towels, hand towels, washcloths, bath mats (preferably non-slip).
●Plunger
●Waste Basket
Outdoor Supplies
Before buying tools and equipment, take some time to plan your outdoor space. Decide where you want lawns, gardens, patios, and other features. This will help you choose the right tools and avoid unnecessary purchases.
● Lawn Mower
● String Trimmer (Weed Whacker)
● Leaf Blower
● Gardening Tools: Shovel, rake, hoe, garden hose and nozzle, watering can.
● Pressure Washer
● Grill
● Outdoor Storage Box: For smaller items like cushions, garden tools, pool accessories, etc.
● Bug Spray and Repellent
Becoming a first-time homeowner is a rewarding experience filled with opportunities for growth and personal fulfilment. By following this essential checklist, you can approach homeownership with confidence and clarity, ensuring that you make informed decisions every step of the way. Remember, the key to a successful homeownership journey lies in preparation, understanding, and a proactive approach to managing your new responsibilities.
Homeownership is not just about having a roof over your head. It’s about building a foundation for your future, creating memories, and having a place that truly feels like your own.
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To get started, fill out our simple online application form here. It only takes a few minutes, and you’ll provide us with some basic information about your financial situation and home loan needs.