Moving into your first home is an exciting time. There is so much going on, so many important decisions to make, so many forms to read and sign. If things go smoothly (they rarely do) you could be moving within a few weeks of finding your dream home. So it is easy to forget that having a home is just the first step—if you are going to live comfortably you also need some stuff to make it work.
The Big Stuff
Of course, you are going to need a bed, chairs, and table, but you have already thought about those.
If you are used to a kitchen where everything is fitted, you don’t want to arrive to find that all the kitchen appliances have been unexpectedly removed. So be clear about what is being left and equip yourself with a cooker, fridge/freezer, and washing machine.
If you have a lawn and you move in during the warmer months, you are going to need a lawnmower pretty soon. If you move in the winter you might need something to clear the snow.
You’ll want coverings for the windows, especially if you are overlooked. At least some rooms need curtains or blinds for privacy.
You’ll also want floor coverings, to make the place seem homely.
The Middle Stuff
You will probably want to clean through straight away, so be ready with the best quiet vacuum cleaner you can manage. Also get a mop and a brush for the hard floors.
In the bedroom, a full-length mirror will make all the difference to how you feel as you wake up in your new life, and of course, you will also want a mirror in the bathroom. While in the bathroom, will you need a shower curtain?
Does your house have smoke alarms? If not, fit these as soon as possible, and consider getting a fire extinguisher as well.
You have to eat, so equip yourself with the basics: pots, pans, kettle, toaster, silverware, plates, bowls, mugs, glasses.
What state is the garden in—and do you care? You will probably want some essential equipment to keep it tidy: a spade, some clippers, a wheelbarrow, a rake.
Add whatever will make the place quickly seem like home, like lamps and pictures.
The Little Stuff
There are a thousand items you will need eventually, but some things will come in handy sooner rather than later:
- A basic toolset, including hammers, screwdrivers, pliers, hacksaw, tape measure, duct tape.
- Cleaning materials, with brushes and cloths.
- Towels and linen.
- Decorating equipment.
- Kitchen tools, including spoons, spatulas, lots of knives, oven gloves, bottle openers.
Enjoy Your New Home
Moving into your first home is an exciting and nerve-wracking experience, but one that you will never forget. Whatever you do, you will never have everything you want, but you can help the early days to go smoothly by being prepared.
