Congratulations on your new home! The first year of homeownership comes with a steep learning curve. This guide covers everything you need to know—from day one essentials to month-by-month priorities.

The First Week

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Change the locks

You don't know who has keys from previous owners. Rekey or replace all exterior locks.

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Locate your shutoffs

Find your water main, electrical panel, and gas shutoff. Label them clearly.

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Test smoke and CO detectors

Replace batteries and units if they're old. Add detectors if needed.

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Deep clean before moving in

Easier to clean an empty house. Consider professional deep cleaning.

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Set up utilities

Electric, gas, water, trash, internet. Transfer or set up new accounts.

The First Month

Learn Your Home

  • Walk through with the home inspection report
  • Test all appliances and systems
  • Find your HVAC filter and check its size
  • Locate the water heater and learn to adjust temperature
  • Identify what circuits control which rooms

Get Organized

  • Create a home binder with all documents
  • File warranties and manuals for appliances
  • Set up a maintenance calendar
  • Research local trash/recycling schedules
  • Register your warranty with any new appliances

Start Building Your Team

  • Ask neighbors for contractor recommendations
  • Find a reliable handyman for small jobs
  • Identify emergency services (plumber, electrician)
  • Get your HVAC system serviced

First-Year Financial Adjustments

Build an Emergency Fund

Aim for $5,000-10,000 specifically for home emergencies. Furnaces fail, roofs leak, appliances break.

Budget for Maintenance

Plan to spend 1-3% of your home's value annually on maintenance and repairs.

Track New Expenses

Property taxes, insurance, HOA fees, higher utilities, lawn care—budget accordingly.

Don't Overspend on Furniture

Live in the space before buying. You'll learn what you actually need.

Month-by-Month First Year Guide

Month 1-3
  • Learn all systems and shutoffs
  • Change HVAC filters
  • Check for any issues covered by home warranty
  • Make a list of improvements you want
Month 4-6
  • Address any immediate safety or comfort issues
  • Start learning DIY basics (painting, caulking)
  • Clean gutters (if spring/fall)
  • Assess what projects are priorities
Month 7-9
  • Prepare for opposite season (winterize or summer prep)
  • Schedule HVAC maintenance
  • Review your home insurance—still adequate?
  • Check weather stripping and caulk
Month 10-12
  • Review your first year of utility bills
  • Assess what improvements made a difference
  • Plan year-two projects and budget
  • File taxes (new homeowner deductions!)

Common First-Year Mistakes to Avoid

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Taking on too many projects at once

Live in the home first. You'll learn what actually matters to you.

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Ignoring the home warranty

If you have one, use it! File claims for covered issues before it expires.

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Not tracking expenses

Keep receipts for everything—you'll need them for taxes and resale.

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Neglecting preventive maintenance

Small tasks prevent expensive repairs. Don't skip HVAC service, gutter cleaning, etc.

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Not learning your neighborhood

Introduce yourself to neighbors. They're your best resource for local contractors and tips.

Your First-Year Checklist

Immediate (Week 1)

  • ☐ Change locks
  • ☐ Find shutoffs
  • ☐ Test detectors
  • ☐ Set up utilities
  • ☐ Change address

First Month

  • ☐ HVAC service
  • ☐ Create home binder
  • ☐ Find handyman
  • ☐ Learn systems
  • ☐ Change filters

First Year

  • ☐ Seasonal maintenance
  • ☐ Build emergency fund
  • ☐ Review insurance
  • ☐ Track expenses
  • ☐ File taxes

Make Your First Year Easier with NestorAI

NestorAI guides you through your first year of homeownership:

  • Get reminders for first-year tasks and deadlines
  • Store all your home documents in one place
  • Track expenses and improvements
  • Find trusted contractors in your area
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