What should I do immediately after buying a home?

Locate the main water shutoff, change all locks, test all smoke/CO detectors, clean gutters, change HVAC filter, and create a home file for all documents and warranties.

How much should a first-time homeowner budget for maintenance?

Plan for 1% of your home's purchase price per year. For a $350,000 home, that's $3,500 annually, or about $290 per month. Build this into your monthly budget from day one.

What tools do I need as a new homeowner?

Essential: hammer, cordless drill, screwdriver set, adjustable wrench, tape measure, level, utility knife, pliers, 6-ft ladder, and a wet/dry vacuum. Add a lawn mower, trimmer, and leaf blower for outdoor maintenance.

When should I hire a home inspector after buying?

Schedule your own inspection within the first 6 months (separate from your purchase inspection). Focus on roof, HVAC, foundation, and electrical. Create a priority list of needed repairs.

What home maintenance can I ignore in the first year?

Nothing should be 'ignored,' but lower-urgency tasks include: deep carpet cleaning, appliance replacement, repainting, and landscaping redesign. Focus on safety and preventive tasks first.

First-Time Homeowner Maintenance Checklist

Congratulations on your new home. This guide covers everything you need to know in your first year — from monthly habits to seasonal checklists — so you can protect your investment and avoid costly surprises.

Your First Week as a Homeowner

Learn your home's systems

Locate water shutoff, gas shutoff, electrical panel, furnace filter location, water heater shutoff, and main sewer cleanout.

Build a tool kit

Start with: hammer, screwdriver set, adjustable wrench, pliers, tape measure, level, utility knife, cordless drill, flashlight, and 6-ft ladder.

Find service providers

Research and save contacts for: HVAC contractor, plumber, electrician, roofer, chimney sweep, and pest control. Check reviews before an emergency.

Monthly Habits (10 Minutes Total)

Replace HVAC filter

Check monthly, replace every 1-3 months. Set a recurring reminder on your phone.

Test smoke & CO detectors

Press the test button. Replace batteries yearly or when they chirp.

Test GFCI outlets

Press the test/reset buttons on outlets near water sources (kitchen, bathrooms, garage).

Walk the property

Look for leaks, cracks, pest signs, and unusual odors. Early detection prevents major repairs.

Seasonal Checklists

Spring

Inspect roof for winter damage
Clean gutters
Service AC unit
Check exterior caulking
Test sprinkler system
Seal driveway
Check deck/patio for damage

Fall

Clean gutters after leaves drop
Service furnace
Add weatherstripping
Winterize sprinklers
Insulate exposed pipes
Drain and store garden hoses
Test snow removal equipment

Budgeting for Home Maintenance

$3,500/year on $350k home

DIY savings

30-50% on labor by doing tasks yourself

emergency fund

Set aside $2,000-5,000 for unexpected repairs

Use our cost estimator for a personalized maintenance budget based on your specific home.

Other First-Year Priorities

Set up a maintenance calendar

Schedule recurring reminders for filter changes, gutter cleaning, and seasonal maintenance. Our interactive planner can help track everything.

Create a home file

Keep receipts, warranties, appliance manuals, and service records in one place. Take photos of serial numbers for insurance purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the most common first-year homeowner mistake?

Not budgeting for maintenance. New homeowners often spend their full budget on furnishings and renovations, leaving nothing for preventive maintenance. Build maintenance costs into your monthly budget from month one.

Do I need a home warranty as a first-time buyer?

Home warranties cost $500-800/year and cover major system failures (HVAC, plumbing, electrical). Read the fine print — many have exclusions, service fees per visit, and coverage caps. For new construction, the builder's warranty covers major systems for 1-10 years.

Use the interactive planner →All maintenance guides →