Move-In Makeover for First Time Homebuyers

July 17, 2019

Buying a home can be both thrilling and nerve wracking at the same time! But now that you have finally taken the leap and decided to become a homeowner, you probably have a million questions about which project or projects you should tackle first. As painting professionals we have seen many new homeowners get overwhelmed with the never ending list of “Home Projects.”

The first thing to do is to evaluate what you want to do to make the house yours, and what you need to do to make the house livable. Those are two totally different things, keep in mind. During the home buying process, you hopefully had an inspection that will give you a good place to start. The inspection report should tell you if there are any safety concerns such as an electrical panel that needs updating, plumbing that should be repaired, or a roof that is nearing the end of its life. These are the items that you should include on the “need” to fix vs. the “want” to update.

Once any safety concerns have been repaired or updated, now is when you can have fun making over your home to fit your personality and lifestyle. Here are some suggestions that may be helpful.

Create a Priority List

Top on that list is obviously the items listed above that need to be completed in order for your home to be a safe living environment. Then, start brainstorming a list of things you would love to do to the house. This could include remodeling the kitchen or perhaps creating a man cave in the basement. Once the list is made, decide which items take priority. This may depend on your budget, time, and a dozen other factors.

Create a Budget

It may be hard to figure out what the cost will be for each item on your list, but you can at least rank them by least expensive projects to most expensive. This gives you an idea that maybe if your budget is tight your first year, that you conquer the smaller projects before you start on the larger renovations. Some homeowners split their list into small vs. large projects and try to complete the ones they can on their own to save money.

Complete Some Projects Before Move-In Day

Many homeowners get the chance to do some of their makeover before they even move in to their new home. It really is an ideal time to refinish or install hardwood floors, get rid of that popcorn ceiling, and paint each room the color you are envisioning. This will give you a rare opportunity to access the rooms without the bother of moving furnishings and all of your personal belongings. It is so nice to start decorating your home with a freshly painted canvas in the color palette that speaks to you personally.

Consider ROI

When checking off the items on your list in your new home, it is important to take into consideration the return you will get on your investment. Bathroom and kitchen remodels are great for increasing the value of your home and are always a smart choice. Projects such as adding smart home technology and energy efficient items such as appliances, heating and air conditioning systems, and windows are also a great way to start getting a return right away in smaller utility bills.

Do you have an ever-growing list of things you want to do when you get into your new home? Let us take care of your painting needs both inside and out. Call Jerry Enos Painting at 978-546-6843, or visit our website to find out more.

 

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