Important Items To Purchase After Buying A Home
The jingle-jangle of new keys in hand is one of the best sounds ever. And while buying a new home can be one of the most exciting times of your life, it can also be super stressful, per The New York Times. The responsibilities of owning a home comes with a long list of things you'll need to make the best of your new abode. Buying them early on, preferably after the signing and before moving in, will save lots of hassle and unplanned jaunts to the store.
You'll want to consider safety items, big and small, as well as everyday essentials like plungers and light bulbs. In addition to these tangible purchases, you'll need to update your voter registration and mailing address, as well as subscriptions and accounts with the new address. Gas and electric utility services, Wi-Fi, and trash collection will have to be ordered or changed. And, if home insurance wasn't required as part of your purchase, you'll want to call your insurer and get a policy started.
Basic safety first
These safety items are usually included in the purchase of the home, but it's a good idea to thoroughly test or replace them before moving in.
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Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors — The top safety features every home should have, according to CPI.
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Fire extinguisher — An essential safety item for all kitchens, utility rooms, and grilling areas.
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New door locks — Ezlo, a smart home technology and security company, suggests new locks any time you move, change relationships, lose your keys, or renovate.
Enhance security with technology
Our homes are our safe havens and these affordable technologies can help keep it that way.
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Smart doorbell and security cameras – Slash Gear recommends adding these features for the security benefits as well as added convenience. From package deliveries to unknown visitors, these doorbell technologies can be a lifesaver.
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Home security system — Some homes already have one of these, but you should to subscribe to a monthly service to use it (via U.S. News & World Report). It's also a good idea to walk the perimeter of the home and check for loose locks or areas that need better outdoor lighting.
Home upkeep from the start
Home maintenance and regular cleaning are an important part of home ownership. Having these items handy when you first move in will save you several impromptu trips to the store.
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Tool kit — According to Popular Mechanics, a well-stocked kit will include a cordless drill/driver, putty knife, safety equipment, tape measure, level, pliers, clamps, and more — and, of course, a hammer with a variety of nails and screwdrivers with various types of screws.
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Cleaning supplies
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Plunger
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Garbage cans and liners
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Filters for the furnace and water filtration system (if applicable)
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Wasp spray and insect repellent
Immediate necessities
These must-have items are almost always forgotten or are packed away. Make sure they are easily accessible upon move-in to make your life easier.
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Toilet paper and paper towels
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Shower curtain
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First aid kit
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Curtains and blinds — Thompson Creek Window Co. advises to stop curious eyes from peeking into your home, immediately installing blinds and curtains.
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Food
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Flashlight and batteries — Be prepared for power outages (via NBC News), or dark corners of basements and outbuildings.
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Light bulbs
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Night lights
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Softener salt — If your home has a water softening system, per Culligan.
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Garden hose
Larger items you don't want to forget
And lastly, these items are definitely things that will need to be assessed and budgeted in.
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Any furniture you'll need — Take inventory of your current furniture and make a list of desired items.
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Replacement appliances — Sometimes it's best to start out with fresh, new ones, suggests Rocket Homes.
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Lawnmower and trimmer — if your new home has a yard to maintain, you need these.
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Snow removal equipment — Depending on where you live and the time of year, this may be at the top of the list (via Green Industry Pros).