Social Links Widget

Click here to edit the Social Media Links settings. This text will not be visible on the front end.

First Time Home Buyer • Steps to Home Buying • December 23, 2024

Step 10: The First 6 Months in Your New Home: What to Do Next

by Robert Walker

 

In our previous post, “Closing Day: What to Expect and How to Prepare,” we celebrated the moment you officially become a homeowner. Now that you have the keys, the next six months are all about settling in and building a foundation for long-term success.

  1. Make It Feel Like Home
  • Unpack Strategically: Focus on essential areas like the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom first.
  • Add Personal Touches: Decorate and arrange furniture to reflect your style.
  • Meet the Neighbors: Building relationships can help you feel at home in your new community.
  1. Prioritize Maintenance and Repairs
  • Schedule Routine Maintenance: Service HVAC systems, check plumbing, and inspect the roof.
  • Address Minor Repairs: Fixing small issues now can prevent costly repairs later.
  • Create a Home Maintenance Calendar: Track seasonal tasks to stay on top of upkeep.
  1. Get Familiar with Your Finances
  • Reassess Your Budget: Account for new expenses like utilities, HOA fees, and property taxes.
  • Build an Emergency Fund: Aim to save at least 1–3% of your home’s value annually for maintenance costs.
  1. Explore Your New Community
  • Discover Local Gems: Visit parks, restaurants, and shops to get to know the area.
  • Get Involved: Attend community events or join local groups to make connections.

Looking Ahead

Congratulations on completing the homebuying journey! While this concludes our “Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a Home in 2025” series, I’m here to help with anything you need in the years to come. From home maintenance tips to preparing for your next move, consider me your lifelong resource for all things real estate.

Conclusion

The first six months in your new home are about settling in, maintaining your investment, and embracing your new lifestyle. With thoughtful planning and a proactive approach, you’ll set the stage for years of happiness in your new space.

Have questions about homeownership or need recommendations for local services? Contact me today—I’m here to support you every step of the way!

Robert Walker

Related Articles
First Time Home Buyer Step 9: Closing Day: What to Expect and How to Prepare In our previous post, “The Home Inspection Process: What You Need to Know,” we covered the importance of inspecting your new home. Now, the big day is almost here—closing day! This is when all your hard work and preparation pay off, and you officially become a homeowner. Let’s explore what to expect and how to […]
First Time Home Buyer Step 8: The Home Inspection Process: What You Need to Know In our previous post, “How to Make Your Offer Stand Out in a Competitive Market,” we discussed crafting a winning offer to secure your dream home. Now that your offer has been accepted, it’s time to focus on the next critical step: the home inspection process. A thorough home inspection protects your investment and ensures […]
First Time Home Buyer Step 7: How to Make Your Offer Stand Out in a Competitive Market You’ve found the perfect home—congratulations! But in today’s competitive housing market, finding a home is only half the battle. The next step is crafting an offer that grabs the seller’s attention and gives you the edge over other buyers. Here’s how to make your offer stand out and increase your chances of securing your dream […]

Coldwell Banker - Northwest Austin

© 2024 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC

Terms Of Use | Privacy Policy

Accessibility Statement | Fair Housing Notice | INFORMATION ABOUT BROKERAGE SERVICES

© Coldwell Banker 2023 – 2024. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.