You did it! You found your dream home and officially became a homeowner.
But now that the papers are signed and the keys are in hand, you might be wondering, what's next?
While you're probably thinking about paint colors and where to put the couch, there's a lot more to think through when it comes to what to buy in a new house, especially if you want it to feel like your space.
We spoke with John Sedlarik, broker and team leader at The Sedlarik Group Realty, who offered this advice for new homeowners.
"It's very common for someone to come in and want to put their touch on the house," Sedlarik said. "If you don't like the colors, you'll definitely want to paint. You need to give it your own touch, also, if you don't like the flooring and walls. That way, it feels clean and new to you."
From must-haves to energy-efficient upgrades, here's a look at the top things to buy for a new house and how to make it truly yours.
New House Stuff to Buy and Replace
Let's break down what you might want to prioritize and what could wait.
1. Paint or Remove Wallpaper
That green living room or floral wallpaper might not be your vibe, and that's okay.
A fresh coat of paint can instantly transform a space and make it feel clean and new. Pick colors that match your style or create a theme throughout the house -- it's an easy way to bring your personality into your home.
2. Replace or Refinish Flooring
Old carpet? Dingy tile? Say goodbye.
Replacing flooring is a common first step when figuring out what to buy in a new house. Whether you want cozy carpet, durable laminate, or classic hardwood, new flooring can dramatically change how your home looks and feels.
Pro Tip: If your home has original hardwood hiding under carpet, consider refinishing it for a charming, budget-friendly upgrade.
3. Buy New Appliances
If the appliances that came with the house are outdated, mismatched, or just not your style, upgrading is a smart move.
Stainless steel? Front-load washer and dryer? Energy-efficient refrigerator? Go for it.
When buying appliances, look for Energy Star ratings to help lower your energy bills and make your home more efficient from the start.
4. Install a Programmable Thermostat
Tired of getting out of bed to adjust the thermostat?
A smart, programmable thermostat lets you control the temperature from your phone and helps you save money by automatically adjusting while you're away or asleep. It's one of the simplest but most impactful things you can buy for your new house.
5. Upgrade Your Insulation
Here's something most homeowners don't think about right away: insulation.
But if your new home feels drafty or you're constantly fiddling with the thermostat, you could have poor insulation. Traditional materials like fiberglass or cellulose might not cut it because they don't seal air gaps.
Foam insulation, on the other hand, creates an air barrier that keeps outdoor temperatures out and your comfy, treated air in. That means fewer drafts, more consistent indoor temps, and a much more comfortable space.
What to Buy for a New House (That You Might Not Have Considered)
Aside from paint and appliances, here are a few more things new homeowners often need to buy:
- Window treatments (curtains, blinds, etc.)
- Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
- Basic tools and hardware
- Lighting fixtures or replacement bulbs
- Organizational items like shelving or storage bins
- Lawn care tools or snow shovels (welcome to Michigan)
John Sedlarik, broker and team leader at The Sedlarik Group Realty, contributed to this article.
Key Points:
- Personalize it -- Painting and flooring are two of the quickest ways to make your space feel like home.
- Plan for upgrades -- Budget for new appliances, especially if the existing ones are outdated or inefficient.
- Think energy efficiency -- Programmable thermostats and foam insulation can improve comfort and cut utility bills.
- Don't forget the little stuff -- Window coverings, tools, and safety equipment often get overlooked until you need them.
- Make it yours -- This is your chance to create a space that reflects your personality and lifestyle.
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