4 Necessities for New Homeowners

As a new homeowner, you'll have to invest in some must-haves, many of which you should get before you even move into your new abode. While this process may be a little stressful and daunting, don't let it overwhelm you. Instead, buy what you need when you can afford to and enjoy making a new house feel like a home. Here are four home essentials you're going to need sooner rather than later.

1. Homeowners' Insurance

If you have a home loan, insurance is a requirement; however, even if you don't have a mortgage, you should still invest in homeowners' insurance. It's a good idea to look into home insurance quotes to ensure you get the best rate available and desired coverage. 

Home insurance covers more than just the cost of your house. Generally, it covers other structures, including decks, garages and sheds, and it will pay to replace your personal belongings if stolen or damaged. If you're unable to live in your house after a fire or other disaster, this insurance may help pay for a place to live while your house is being repaired or rebuilt. Additionally, if someone is injured in your home or on your property, your policy will take care of that person's medical bills instead of you having to pay out-of-pocket.

2. New Locks

Because you don't know how many keys for your house may be floating about, it's a good idea to replace or rekey the locks before you move your things in. Don't take the chance of a stranger using a key to get into your home.

Changing your own locks is fairly inexpensive, but consider consulting a professional to rekey the locks if you want to save time. A house call can be pricey, whereas taking the lock to a locksmith or hardware store can save you a few bucks. If you want to do it yourself, you can purchase a rekeying kit, which will allow you to alter up to six locks.

3. Smoke Detectors

To keep you and your family safe, you'll want to invest in smoke detectors and install them throughout the house. If your new place already has smoke detectors, take time to ensure each one is working correctly.

Testing each alarm is pretty straightforward. Before you start, make sure you alert your family members of your intentions; otherwise, they'll panic when they hear the alarms. Most detectors have a button specifically intended for testing the alarm. Press this button and listen to the sound quality. If the sound is nonexistent or quiet, you should replace the batteries. If you haven't replaced the batteries in six months and the alarms are functioning correctly, it's best to change the batteries, regardless of the testing results. Additionally, you should replace all the smoke detectors after 10 years. 

4. Cleaning Supplies

Your new home is going to need an in-depth cleaning before you unpack your boxes. Since other people previously used the bathroom and kitchen, you'll want to take the time to clean and sanitize toilets, sinks and all other surfaces. After vacuuming the carpet throughout the house, consider purchasing a carpet scrubber to get rid of odors and stains. Cleaning the carpet is necessary if the previous owner had pets, as you can't be certain where these animals may have had accidents on the floor.

Head out to a local store to get the supplies you need. You should purchase these cleaning necessities: disinfectant wipes, oven cleaner, toilet bowl cleanser, bleach, and a multipurpose cleaning agent. In addition, make sure you get rubber gloves, a mop and bucket, a broom and plenty of rags.

If the house is particularly dirty or you don't want to clean it, hire a cleaning service to take care of it for you. While you may be spending more than you'd like, experts will have your house looking spic-and-span in a day or two.

When you purchase a home, it's important to invest in the essentials. These bare necessities will keep your family safe and kick off your home personalization process.