Buying a home is one of the most significant investments in a lifetime. It can be exciting and overwhelming if you are a first-time homebuyer. You now have a place of your own and will want to make it suitable for your lifestyle and taste.
There is a lot of work to do in your new home if you want to upgrade it. Some of these home improvement projects are easy and you can do them yourself. However, the Blue Door Realty team recommends hiring a handyman for tasks that are too much for you to handle.
Below are some home improvement projects for first-time homeowners.
1. Upgrade the lighting and lighting fixtures
The lighting in your new home affects the appearance and aesthetics of the property. Most first-timers often overlook this essential aspect of the house.
The type of lighting can either brighten the property or make it dull and unattractive. For that reason, it would be best to replace old light bulbs with newer or brighter ones.
We also recommend that you upgrade the switches, lamp holders, and other light fixtures. You can install ceiling lights or track lights to add more style to the property.
2. Perform general home repairs
After purchasing your new home, you have to inspect every aspect of it for faulty features that will require repairs or replacements. As part of owning the house, you may have to fix squeaky doors, leaky faucets, or broken fixtures.
Hire a handyman to help fix all drips and leaks. Squeaky door hinges will require lubrication. You can make use of a dry lubricant like a small amount of graphite to stop squeaks and noise from all hinges or fixtures. You can also use petroleum jelly on the hinge pin.
3. Paint the walls
Everyone has their color preference. If you find a home with all the features you love, but the color isn’t your choice, you can repaint it. Paint each room to suit its purpose and style. However, you should know that specific colors are appropriate for certain spaces because of the psychological effects they elicit.
4. Upgrade your home with energy-efficient features
After buying your new home, you do not need to spend so much on energy bills. Several features can make your home energy-efficient. Upgrading this part doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. Some energy-efficient features you may consider include:
- Low-flow taps and toilets consume less water
- Update to a tankless water heater
- Replace old curtains with energy-efficient roller shades
- Install energy-efficient windows
- Using compact fluorescent lamps reduces energy consumption by 75% less than incandescent bulbs.
5. Remodel the bathroom
The cost of updating your bathroom will depend on your preference. There are three grades of bathroom renovations. It could be upscale, midscale, or a minor upgrade.
Minor bathroom renovations are cheap. It may involve replacing the faucets, sinks, vanity, or showerhead. An average bathroom renovation may cost about $5,000 to $13,000, but a complete remodel will be more expensive. The upgrade you choose should depend on your goals and budget.
6. Maintain the gutters
Your gutters are vital because they direct water away from the home’s foundation. If water collects around the foundation, it will lead to damages that may incur more expenses. For that reason, it is necessary to clean and maintain the gutters. Remove all leaves and debris from the gutters to allow a free flow of water away from the home’s foundation.
7. Work on the landscaping
An attractive landscape improves the curb appeal and value of a property. If you take proper care of your landscape, it will be exceptional in the neighborhood.
We recommend that you plant ornamental flowers that can attract beneficial birds and butterflies to your property. You can also add exterior lighting to your landscape.
8. Clean the vents and ducts
Ducts and vents are vital in the heating and cooling system of your home. After buying a new home, it is essential to clean the ductwork and ensure that it is free of debris and dust. Doing this will improve indoor air quality. You can make use of a heavy-duty vacuum to suction the debris and dirt from the vents.
9. Install crown molding
Crown molding has a way of making your home have a feel of luxury and sophistication. If your new home did not come with crown molding, installing it will improve the appearance. It would be best to also install baseboards, doors, and window casings. The installation process is technical, and it requires wood measuring and cutting to ensure that it fits appropriately.
In a nutshell: Home Improvement Projects for the First-Time Homebuyers
Owning a house for the first time is an exciting experience. It is even more exciting when you can perform home improvement projects to make the property meet your desires. It would be best if you always seek the services of a handyman for tasks that you cannot perform.
