If you’re preparing to move into your first home, there are likely many of things on your mind. It can be a simultaneously exciting and overwhelming experience for first-time buyers, and it’s important not to ignore some of the basic necessities for your new home. From making sure that your new home feels safe and clean to ensuring that it feels like you, here are some key items you’re going to want to have:

A Basic Toolkit

If you’re moving from an apartment or a rental where landlords were responsible for the majority of the maintenance, you may not be entirely prepared for the many minor demands of homeownership. Equipping yourself with a basic toolkit can help you address those small projects when they pop up without skipping a beat. You’re going to have pictures or artwork to hang up, or maybe some of the doorknobs are loose. If you have tools on hand, you can address little problems as they arise.

Cleaning Supplies

Cleaning supplies don’t always make it over to the new place when we move. Maybe we kept them behind to do a final clean before the move, or maybe we exhausted our supply and haven’t yet purchased more. Ensuring you have the basics can make for a much smoother move-in. Even if the new house feels clean, it’s a good idea to give it a thorough deep cleaning. Arriving with some basics, like something to clean the kitchen and bathroom, paper towels, and a broom and mop can help you get started.

Your Safety and Security

Sometimes we overlook the things that seem simple and common-sense. Having a flashlight in case the power goes out, for example, should be a priority. Homeowners may also want to upgrade fire and carbon monoxide detectors. If security is a concern, change the locks sooner rather than later.

Personalize it

While practical items are no doubt important, it’s also important that you feel at home in your new space. Hanging some artwork to add a bit of your style can be a quick way to jumpstart the process of making the home feel like yours. Set aside a few of your favorite pieces so that they’re accessible. This will allow you to put your mark on the space before you’re even fully settled in.

Your must-haves are going to be specific, so create a list in advance to make sure the transition is as smooth as possible.

If you have any questions about these ideas, or if there’s another problem I can be of assistance with, please reach out. I’d be happy to help.