If you are right about to buy a new home, you probably are focused mostly on what you need to do to get your keys. You are busy shopping for the perfect house and picking out a suitable mortgage.
But it is just as important to think about what you are going to do after you receive your keys and move into your new home. Here are some tips for new homeowners.
Here Are The 7 Tips If You Are A New Homeowners
- Hold off initially on optional purchases to enhance your home. The first thing you should do after you move into your new home is don’t go out and spend a lot more money. You just made a major purchase, and you are now going to have new monthly expenses. And no matter how well you think you have calculated them, you probably will end up having to spend more than you thought. So, this is not the time to go out and purchase a bunch of fancy new furniture and décor you do not really need. Take time to get used to your new budget first, and let some of the post-move in excitement wear off. Then you can shop for furnishings and décor if you want.
- Start getting to know people in the neighborhood. Make it a priority to introduce yourself to your neighbors. Many of them have probably been in the area for longer than you. If you find yourself needing help at some point (maybe for referrals to home contractors, for example), you may be surprised by just how much your neighbors can assist. The earlier you start building positive relationships, the better.
- Get used to the idea of doing maintenance. Did you used to live in an apartment or in your parents’ house? If so, you are used to someone else taking care of maintenance and repairs. All you had to do in the past was report that there was a problem. But now, you will be 100% responsible for all upkeep on your home. So, get in the habit of monitoring all the systems and components in your home and checking for damage. The sooner you can catch problems, the less expensive they may be to fix.
- Create a file for all house-related documents. Make a file where you keep receipts, papers and documents of all kinds that relate to your home and yard. Organize it so you can quickly reference anything you need. These records may help you save money in the future and take better care of your home.
- Start setting aside a pile of cash for house-related problems. Whenever you get hit with a repair or maintenance bill for your home, it is going to be painful. One way you can make it less painful is to have a fund where you stockpile money for these types of issues. When something does come up, you will be able to pull funds directly from that pile without eating into your general savings.
- Install a security system. If your new home does not already have a security system, consider installing one as a priority. For one thing, it will help you to directly protect your investment. For another, it might qualify you for more competitive insurance rates. Some carriers discount customers who have a security system. While you are at it, check if there are any other safety-related improvements you can make to lower your insurance costs and protect your home, valuables and loved ones.
- Start figuring out your taxes. Finally, owning a home is going to have an impact on your taxes. You will need to pay property taxes, but you might also qualify for some tax benefits. Seek out a tax advisor who is used to working with homeowners and helping them maximize those benefits. Get an early start if you can so there will be less stress and hassles when tax time rolls around.
Buy Your Next Home Now
Can’t wait to get into your new home? Let’s get you the right mortgage. If you are ready to apply, please call us now at (540) 838-5868 to schedule your consult. We can help you purchase a home in Blacksburg or anywhere in Virginia.
