You bought your first Chicagoland home, congratulations! This is a huge accomplishment and milestone in your life, and Harty Realty Group was happy to be there to help. Now that you’re a new homeowner, you might be wondering what steps to take next. We’re here to offer some advice.

Here are a few things every homeowner should do after buying a home, according to HouseLogic:

• Change the locks. There is no way of knowing how many people have keys to your house, so the smart choice is to change the locks and keys, so you know you’re the only one with access.

• Check for water leaks. Your home inspector should have done this, but as a homeowner, this is something you’ll want to catch fast if it ever happens in the future. A great trick is to check your water meter two hours apart, without using any water in between. If the reading changes, you have a leak.

• Clean. Chances are, the last homeowners just packed up and left. Before you move furniture in, vacuum and steam clean all carpets, or have a professional come in to do it for you. Wipe out your cabinets too, and clean whatever else you feel could use a scrubbing before filling it with stuff.

• Find the circuit breaker box and main water valve. It’s good for you to find these right away, so when a problem arises, or the power goes out, you’ll know where they are and how to use them. Take some time figuring out which fuses control what parts of the house, and label them if they aren’t already.

Now, here is a list of items that every homeowner should own after moving in, via HouseLogic:

1.  Fire extinguisher – There are five different types of extinguishers with different uses, so check the U.S. Fire Administration’s guide before choosing one for your house.

2.  Tools – You’ll want the usual tools, such as drill, screwdriver, hammer, tape measure and so on, but also add on a stud finder, hand saw, ratchet set and pry bar. HouseLogic explains the use for each one.

3.  Emergency Kit – Every home should have an emergency kit on hand, including cash, food, water, flashlight, batteries, first aid kit, matches and other similar items. FEMA suggests having everything everyone in your family will need for at least 72 hours, including pets.

4.  Ladders – How high will you need to go? Where might you have to use it? How much do you weigh? This is all stuff to keep in mind when choosing a ladder or ladders for your home. From changing a light bulb in the kitchen, to climbing on the roof to check for damage, they will come in handy.

5.  Confidence – Every homeowner should have confidence going into homeownership! With time, supplies and some DIY videos online, you’ll be surprised how quickly you’ll learn new trades. If you don’t trust yourself with a project, you can always call in the professionals!

Still need help with the home-buying process? Give us a call, your Exclusive Buyer’s Agents in the Chicagoland real estate market!

Harty Realty Group
Chicagoland’s Premier Buyer Agent
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