Congratulations on your new home! Now that the paperwork is finished, the real work begins. Buying a house is rarely as simple as getting the keys and settling in; even if you didn’t buy a fixer upper, you’ll most likely want to give your new place some level of customization, from painting the walls to refinishing the floors (and you’ll probably want to change the locks, too.) Another thing to be ready for is the ongoing maintenance like yard work, repairing a broken toilet or even just keeping your new place clean.
But don’t worry, this is all part of the fun of being a homeowner. Here’s a list of some of the most essential things you’ll need for settling into your new house.
Home Renovations
While it’s generally a good idea to wait a year and get to know your house before you start knocking down walls and undertaking major renovations, projects like painting or hanging ceiling fans are an easy way to personalize and make your new home even more comfortable.
Paint rollers. Faster and easier than using a brush when there’s a lot of wall space to cover, rollers are how you’ll do most of your painting.
Paint brushes. You will still need paint brushes for trim, corners, and more. There’s a different brush for every job, so it’s essential to get exactly what you need.
Paint remover and stripper. There will most likely be some old paint to remove before you put a new color on the wall.
Paint. Before you buy paint, you’ll have to choose a color. There are a few different routes to take here, whether you’re choosing inspiration from things in your house or going with the latest trends.
Additional painting supplies. Don’t forget to pick up some painter’s tape, a bucket or two, drop cloths, and whatever else that will help you do the job.
Spackle. You may put a few dents in the wall while moving in, or you might need to repair some holes the previous owner left before painting.
Smart light bulbs
Ceiling fans are a must. Not only do they make an attractive addition to any room, they make your house more energy efficient, helping to cool it in the summer and get the heat flowing in the winter. Ceiling fans are easy to install yourself, too.
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Homeowner Tools
You will need some tools to take care of your new home. Start with these three essential tools: a tape measure, a multi-utility knife, and an easy-to-store ladder. You’ll find that these are the things you use over and over again. In addition to those, we also recommend:
Cordless drill
Pipe wrenches
Hammer
Extension cord
Furnace filters
Pest control
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Kitchen and Bathroom Supplies
Most families end up spending as much time in the kitchen as any room in the house, so it’s important to get your kitchen organized so you can make the most use of it. And you’ll obviously want your bathroom to be as comfortable as possible, too. Here are a few suggestions for what you’ll need.
Pull-out trash can
Drawer and shelf liner
Countertop storage
Silverware organizer
Pot rack
Spice rack
Shower curtain rod
Plunger
Towels
Bidet attachment
Bathroom drawer organizers
Above-the-toilet storage
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Appliances
In most cases, your new house will already have all the appliances you need. However, it’s not unusual for the previous owner to have taken the washer and dryer with them, in which case you’ll need to get your own.
Washer & dryer
Mini fridge
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Lawn Care
A lush lawn will have you spending a lot more time outdoors. It might even make you the envy of the neighborhood. But all that green grass is going to require some care and maintenance.
A lawn mower will likely be one of the bigger purchases you make as a new homeowner, so it’s important to get the right mower for your needs. A zero turn mower will make quick work out of a big yard. You’ll never have to worry whether or not you have enough gas with this electric riding mower from Ryobi, which can take care of two acres on a single charge. And for most yards, a self-propelled walk-behind mower is all you need.
Garden hose
Leaf blower
A full kit of gardening tools like shovels, rakes, clippers and more are handy whether you’re a budding master gardener or just keeping on top of the maintenance.
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Outdoor Living
There’s nothing better than kicking up your heels and relaxing in the backyard after a long day, or even a short one. Therefore, you’ll want to get your patio or outdoor living space set up just right.
Whatever you like to eat, it’s going to taste better when it’s cooked outside. Whether you want a gas grill, a pellet smoker grill, or a charcoal grill, there are plenty of options.
Patio furniture
Hammock
Hot tub
Wind chimes (or smaller wind chimes if you’re worried about bothering the neighbors)
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Cleaning Supplies
Sorry, you are going to have to clean your house. However, if you do follow a few simple cleaning tips and use the right equipment, it’ll be easier than you think. Here’s what you need to get started.
Stick vacuums have evolved into a tool for the whole house, and they won’t take up much room in your storage closet. If you have pets, you’ll definitely want a vacuum with some extra power. Robot vacuums are a nice accessory to help save time and keep on top of messes before they get out of hand.
Mop kit
Broom & dustpan
Eco-friendly cleaning products
Stain remover
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Storage
You don’t want to live out of boxes forever. Having the right storage solutions for your home makes it easy to unpack.
Bookshelves
DIY bookshelf plans
Bookshelves for kids’ rooms
Storage totes and containers
Shoe storage
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Design and Décor
After moving in and unpacking, the next step is dialing in your interior design. Even if you choose to wait to fully launch into the interior design while you paint or decide on renovations, you will at least want some basic furniture and accessories to start enjoying your new home right away. Remember as you get started that quality furniture can last a lifetime if you take good care of it.
Welcome mat
Curtains
Smart blinds
Fireplace tools
Sectional or couch
Dining table for small spaces
TV stand
Television
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Garage
Your garage is for more than just cars. It’s a workshop and the place where your adventures begin. But you’ll want to get it organized so that it’s not a cluttered mess keeping you from doing the things you want.
Parking sensor
Bike rack
Garage organizers for everything from tools to sporting goods
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Home Security
Home security is more than just keeping your home safe from unwanted intruders — though that’s important, too — it’s also about preventing and being prepared for emergencies.
Hide-a-key
Wireless security system
Flashlight
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Fire extinguisher
Smart locks
Mold test kit
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