There are few things more exciting than getting the keys to your new house. Every room is filled with possibilities—places where you can make new memories or places that will allow you to transform that house into a home.
But in all that excitement, it’s more than likely that you will make mistakes. Here are just a few common mistakes to avoid as a new homeowner.
Failing To Budget
If you’ve already gone through the process of financing your new house, you already know that buying a house is expensive. But many people don’t realize just how expensive owning a home can be. There are an untold number of costs that can crop up that you’ll have to budget for, including:
- Mortgage
- Property taxes
- Insurance
- Utilities
- Home maintenance, such as light repairs
Along with the typical costs, a wise homeowner should always have an emergency fund saved up to guard against unexpected emergencies like storm damage or a major appliance conking out.
Trying to DIY Everything
Rolling up your sleeves and doing work on your own home is both a satisfying and money-saving job for homeowners. However, some jobs are better left to the professionals for the sake of time, money, and personal safety.
A good rule of thumb to follow is asking yourself whether someone had to go to a trade school to do the task. For example, let’s say you’re trying to decide whether you should or shouldn’t do a plumbing task. Most likely, you don’t have to go to school to unclog a toilet, but you definitely would for a busted pipe.
Neglecting Maintenance
The final common mistake to avoid as a new homeowner is neglecting everyday tasks. Even though there are things you shouldn’t take into your own hands, like plumbing or electric work, there are plenty of small tasks you can and should tackle regularly. Here are a few key examples:
- Cleaning out the gutters
- Replacing filters
- Hiring a roof inspector
- Cleaning out the garbage disposal, washing machines, and refrigerator coils
- Preventing pests
Putting off these kinds of tasks may result in avoidable damage to your home, so it’s a good idea to pencil them into your schedule and set a reminder to get them done. That way, you can keep your brand-new house as perfect as it was the day you moved in.
