Tips & Tricks on Being a Great New Homeowner

Posted by Rayanne on June 14th, 2021

Being a new homeowner is an exciting experience. While closing on your first home is an important milestone, remember that the process isn’t over yet. Be sure to follow through on important new homeowner responsibilities to make sure your house remains in good condition.

New Homeowner Responsibilities

Life as a new homeowner can be filled with surprises. Thankfully, the better prepared you are for the unexpected, the better your home will fare. Make sure to minimize potential emergencies by considering the following tips and tricks:

1. Get the Right Insurance

After purchasing your new home, you should be fully equipped to protect it. Getting the right insurance will protect you in the event of an emergency. From a freak accident to an unexpected act of nature, these scenarios remind us how important it is to have protection ahead of time. If you’re hoping to skip out on purchasing insurance to save money, there’s a better way. Talk to insurance companies about bundling your packages. Oftentimes, they’ll be able to offer you a discounted price.

2. Practice Proper Pool Care

As a homeowner, it is important to practice proper pool care. Despite this, many homeowners often make the mistake of thinking their pool will be able to take care of itself. Be sure to regularly clean your pool by keeping it clear of debris. Likewise, regularly remove grime as you work to maintain a healthy pH level. Work with a professional to learn how to adjust alkalinity in the pool to make sure the water is always safe for use.

3. Invest in Your Emergency House Fund

Putting money away in an emergency fund may be the last thing on your mind after closing on your house. Despite this, it’s important to prioritize saving money as soon as possible. As a homeowner, it’s important to have a fund that is accessible to you in case of an emergency, such as burst pipes or leaky roofs. Experts recommend saving a minimum of 3-6 months worth of mortgage payments in case of emergency. If you don’t have an emergency fund for home improvements already, don’t worry. Starting an emergency fund as soon as possible is the first step in preparing yourself financially for the unexpected.

4. Work With a Qualified Contractor

Working with a qualified contractor is an important rule for all new homeowners to follow. Though it may be tempting to cut corners when it comes to fixing up the house, doing so when hiring a contractor is a mistake. Be sure to work with a qualified contractor when handling any renovations or repairs. With a trusted professional on hand, you'll avoid the potential damages, expenses, and headaches of working with an unscrupulous individual.

5. Clean Your Air Filters

For the sake of safety and good health, be sure to take care of basic tasks like cleaning your air filters. Having clean air filters in your home is an important part of maintaining a healthy and pollution-free home. Wondering how often to clean your filters? Experts recommend cleaning your home’s air filters every 90 days. Even if you regularly clean your filters, you may not be changing them often enough. If you notice a decrease in airflow and a rise in heating or cooling bills, it’s time to replace your air filters.

6. Keep All Manuals and Warranties

Many homeowners make a habit of throwing away their warranties and manuals from appliances and equipment, but this is often a mistake. New products often fail to work properly within the first year, making it a challenge to repair or replace without the right information. Avoid this scenario by finding a safe place to store these items until you’re ready to use them. With these documents handy, you can save yourself the headache of buying new appliances or damaging your belongings by accident.

Conclusion

Homeownership is an adventure with ups, downs, and everything in between. Make sure you’re prepared for all the excitement coming your way by using this guide to prepare for the unexpected. Keep these six tips in mind as you begin this journey of new homeownership.