10 tips for new homeowners

Bought your first property? Congratulations!

Owning your own property is one of the largest financial investments you can make. As much as it is exciting buying your new property and moving in, it’s important to remember a few basics:

Here are our 10 tips for new homeowners.

1. Don’t rush into making changes

We know how exciting it is, and that you just want to get started, but you need to be organised and do your planning properly.

Research everything about your new property and the surroundings. Walkthrough your home and write down anything that needs to be changed or repaired. Find local contacts for repairs and suppliers and don’t forget that some changes might need permission.

2. Try to have money set aside

You never know what you’ll need it for.

Repairs? Extra testing or paperwork? There’ll probably be some extra costs that you might have overlooked, and it is important to have some extra money set aside for this reason.

That’s hard when you want to spend it on cushions or your housewarming!

3. Keep documents in safe place

Have all your documents for the property safely stored in one place where it will be easy to reach if needed, with an extra copy elsewhere or remotely, just in case.

An accordion folder will be great to keep all your paperwork organised by type and all in one place and might want to buy a fire proof box for documents like deeds, insurance policies and passports.

4. Get the locks changed

This seems like a fairly obvious tip, but it is surprising how many people overlook this step. This is very important especially if the property you bought was previously rented out. You don’t know who else had access to the keys so for peace of mind, get those locks changed.

Make sure the locks are the best you can afford, and check whether your home insurance company has minimum standards.

Even if you’ve bought a new build property, you might still want to get the locks changed.

Stay safe and secure!

5. Permissions and restrictions

Certain home renovation projects may require building control approval or planning permission. Your home may also be Listed or in a Conservation Area which require additional permissions.

Familiarise yourself with building control and planning and if you are thinking about making alterations like altering drainage or replacing doors and windows, check before you start work.

If you carry out work that later turns out to be controlled, you may face fines or even have to reinstate what was there before.

At Front Door, we have plenty of guides to get you started.

6. Get repairs done before they become bigger problems

Once you had a proper walkaround and checked everything in your new property, you might find a few things to repair. It is best to get those done as soon as you can. A small water leak will only get worse.

7. Time for a deep clean

Stock up your new cleaning cupboard.

In most cases, the previous owner will have it cleaned before you move in, but it is still good to deep clean yourself and to have all cleaning supplies on hand. This will also mean you can get to know your house a little more. If you find mould, be careful what you use to remove it as some spores and products can be harmful to your health.

8. Find a reliable builder or trades person who can undertake repairs and maintenance.

Maintenance is vital, regardless of the age of your home. Whether it’s having chimneys swept, clearing gutters every winter, or keeping your drains running freely, you’ll either need to do this yourself or find someone to do it for you. It’s always better to maintain things than fix them when things go wrong.

9. Make sure all utilities are set up

You’ll need to find suppliers for your gas, electricity or oil and set up payment plans or direct debits. Remember to include your water and sewerage company, which you can’t choose, as well as things like broadband and phone suppliers. Its best to arrange these before you move in.

10. Don’t forget your neighbours

Get to know your neighbours and build relationships. Introduce yourself once you move in if they haven’t approached you yet.

They’ll help you find local window cleaners, plumbers and gardeners and they might even offer to feed your cat or water your plants.

Remember to talk to them early in the process if you are thinking about making any changes to your property or boundaries. This can often make applying for Planning permission easier and ease any worries they may have.

And…relax! Now it is time to put that kettle on and settle into your new home.