5 Tools and Decor Ideas New Homeowners Should Invest In

Buying a new home is always an exciting time for anyone. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, upgrading to a larger space or downsizing for the next step in your life, your new home will be the setting for many future memories. To get things off on the right foot, there are a few things you can invest in.

1) New Keys and Locks

Don’t use the locks the previous owners used. You have no way of knowing who has a key to your new home. Many homeowners give keys to neighbors and friends. Others may provide keys to workers such as cleaners and landscapers. Some people are just a bit careless with their home security. Given that you can’t account for whomever may have a key, it is best not to run the risk.

So, always replace the locks when you move in. This is a relatively small expense compared to the risk of some unwanted person accessing your home. Learn more about why changing your locks is important to know how to do it.

In a similar vein, consider a home security system. The mere presence of a system is often sufficient to deter would-be intruders from trying to enter your home. They tend to favor easy targets.

2) Renovations

If you intend to renovate your new home, consider doing it sooner rather than later. Making changes to your home can significantly increase its value. However, making changes can be extremely difficult when you are fully moved in. It is much easier to make the time and space necessary to perform renovations or landscaping when you haven’t moved in yet or have only recently moved in.

For example, if you recently purchased a new home in Texas, consider calling an installer of custom pools in Austin neighbors have used before. While it may seem like a big expense after buying a home, in many cases it is logistically easier to make changes right away. If your contractor finishes the job quickly, it will likely be less costly too.

3) Tools

Similarly, it is a good idea to prepare yourself to do some basic jobs yourself. Purchase some good-quality tools. You may be surprised by how much you can learn simply by searching the internet.

Basic hand tools, a tape measure and painting supplies may be all you need to keep your home in good order. If you are feeling a little more confident, consider a workbench and power saw.

Don’t forget to purchase a solid ladder, especially if you have any high ceilings. Even a basic, six-foot step ladder can help you handle a lot of jobs.

Another good purchase, while not traditionally considered a tool, is a good, multi-purpose bucket. This can help you with washing your home, painting, taking care of pets and more. You may be surprised how often you can use a bucket to get jobs done.

4) Lawncare Equipment

If you have a lawn, you need to be ready to take care of it. Chances are, if you have previously been living in an apartment, you haven’t needed to tend to a lawn before.

Purchase a lawnmower and garden hose at a minimum. A string trimmer and a sprinkler are also good ideas. With those four items, you can maintain your lawn easily.

If you have a homeowner’s association, you likely have some obligation to take care of your lawn. Beyond that, it can greatly benefit the value of your home while also being personally rewarding to have a well-kept lawn.

If you have flower beds, some basic gardening tools, including a trowel and shovel, would also be a good purchase. A little effort combined with some basic tools can help you maintain a beautiful exterior.

5) Emergency Kit

Don’t forget some emergency supplies. Of course, this should include a first aid kit. It is a good idea to keep at one lease stocked in your home at all times. Even if only to deal with scrapes, cuts and bruises.

Additionally, purchase a flashlight and batteries. Consider buying a hand crank light so you won’t need to worry about having fresh batteries.

Store some freshwater in your home somewhere. If you are ever in a flood, this can be a literal lifesaver. It is a good idea to store some non-perishable food. Ideally, you should have supplies for your family to last three days. While this may seem like over-preparedness, natural disasters happen, and it is good to be ready for them.

Ready.gov, a website run by the Department of Homeland Security, has a guide for creating a kit. These basic items are relatively inexpensive and easy to find.

These investments can help you get the most out of your new home. Whether you are a first-time buyer or moving on to a new home, it is good to be ready for the challenges of ownership. You’ll be glad you made these investments.