38 Practical Things You Don't Realize You Need Until You Buy A House
38 Practical Things You Don't Realize You Need Until You Buy A House
Congratulations you are a homeowner Now comes the fun part of settling in and making your new house a home. But amidst the excitement of decorating and choosing furniture it's easy to overlook some practical essentials. Trust me there are items you will need that you never even considered.
This isnt a comprehensive list of everything you will ever need for your home, but a curated collection of the items I and many first time homeowners have discovered are crucial. Let's dive into these often forgotten necessities.
Safety and Security Must Haves
1 Fire Extinguishers Place one on each floor especially near the kitchen.
2 Smoke Detectors Test them regularly and replace batteries annually.
3 Carbon Monoxide Detectors Install these near sleeping areas.
4 First Aid Kit A well stocked kit is crucial for minor emergencies.
5 Security System Consider a monitored system or a simple alarm.
6 Outdoor Security Lights Deter potential intruders with motion sensor lights.
7 Door Stop Use these to avoid damaging doors.
Cleaning and Maintenance Essentials
8 Plungers One for each bathroom is a smart move.
9 Drain Snake Unclog drains without harsh chemicals.
10 Cleaning Supplies Stock up on basic cleaners for different surfaces.
11 Microfiber Cloths Ideal for dusting and cleaning without scratching.
12 Mop and Bucket Choose a system that fits your floor type.
13 Vacuum Cleaner A good vacuum is essential for all floor types.
14 Broom and Dustpan For quick cleanups and sweeping.
15 Step Ladder Reach high shelves and fixtures safely.
16 Garden Hose For watering plants and cleaning outdoor spaces.
17 Lawn Mower Keep your lawn looking its best with a suitable mower.
18 Rake For collecting leaves and debris.
19 Shovel For snow removal or gardening.
20 Garden Gloves Protect your hands while gardening.
Tools for DIY and Repairs
21 Toolkit with Basic Tools A hammer screwdrivers pliers etc are essential.
22 Duct Tape For quick fixes and temporary repairs.
23 WD 40 A lubricant for squeaky hinges and stuck parts.
24 Level Ensure shelves and pictures are straight.
25 Stud Finder Locate studs for secure mounting.
26 Measuring Tape Essential for any project big or small.
27 Safety Glasses Protect your eyes during DIY projects.
28 Work Gloves Protect your hands from cuts and scrapes.
Comfort and Convenience Items
29 Doormats Place them inside and outside to trap dirt.
30 Light Bulbs Stock up on different types and wattages.
31 Extension Cords Reach outlets when needed.
32 Surge Protectors Protect electronics from power surges.
33 Batteries For remotes smoke detectors and other devices.
34 Command Strips Hang decorations without damaging walls.
35 Furniture Pads Protect floors from scratches.
36 Dryer Sheets Reduce static cling and add freshness to laundry.
37 Air Fresheners Keep your home smelling fresh and inviting.
38 Water Filter Improve the taste and quality of your tap water.
Comparing Home Essentials
Lets think about getting cleaning supplies. You could get the cheapest off brand cleaners, or a higher end brand.
| Feature | Budget Option | Premium Option |
||||
| Price | Lower upfront cost | Higher upfront cost |
| Quality | May be less effective | Generally more effective |
| Ingredients | May contain harsh chemicals | Often made with natural or safer ingredients |
| Longevity | May need to use more product | Can last longer with concentrated formulas |
Ultimately the choice depends on your budget preferences and priorities.
A Personal Reflection
When I bought my first house I was so focused on decorating that I completely forgot about practical things like a proper toolkit or even a decent vacuum cleaner. I learned quickly that homeownership involves more than just aesthetics. It's about being prepared for anything from a leaky faucet to a power outage.
These seemingly small items can make a big difference in your comfort safety and ability to maintain your home. Don't underestimate the importance of being prepared. Make a list prioritize your needs and gradually acquire these essentials. Your future self will thank you.
Ultimately turning a house into a home is a journey, be patient with yourself and enjoy the process of creating a space that is both beautiful and functional.
Sources
Consumer Reports Home Guides
The Family Handyman
This Old House
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