9 Items for Your First-Time Home Buyer’s Housewarming Checklist

Congratulations — you did it! You bought your first home, signed more paperwork than a human should ever have to, and officially have a mortgage. Now what?

Well, before you throw that epic housewarming party (or just collapse on your new couch and binge home renovation shows), there are a few things you’ll want to take care of first.

Here’s your First-Time Home Buyer’s Housewarming Checklist — full of practical steps, a few “Why didn’t anyone tell me this?” tips, and a touch of humor to keep things real.

🧰 1. Assemble a Basic Toolkit

No, you don’t need to become a DIY expert overnight, but you will need tools. Even hanging curtains is a surprisingly sweaty workout.

Must-haves:

• Hammer & nails

• Screwdrivers (Phillips & flathead)

• Measuring tape

• Level (trust us, your wall art will thank you)

• Power drill

• Stud finder (yes, it’s a real thing and no, it doesn’t beep for your partner)

🔌 2. Locate Your Shut-Offs & Breakers

Sounds boring — until your toilet is leaking and you’re wildly Googling “how to turn off water main.” Learn where your:

• Main water shut-off is

• Circuit breaker box lives

• Gas shut-off valve (if applicable)

Also, label the breakers. Future-you will appreciate it at 9 p.m. when half the house goes dark and you’re holding a flashlight in your mouth.

🔐 3. Change the Locks

You never know how many people had keys to your place before you moved in — former owners, dog walkers, a guy named Carl? Just change them.

Consider upgrading to smart locks or keypad entry for added convenience and fewer lost-key crises.

💡 4. Set Up Utilities (Before You Move In)

Nothing says “welcome home” like walking into your new place with no electricity. Get your:

• Electricity

• Water

• Gas

• Internet

Set up and running before move-in day. And pro tip: schedule Wi-Fi early. Internet techs are booked like concert tickets.

🧼 5. Deep Clean Before the Boxes Arrive

Even if your new home looks clean, there’s nothing like scrubbing it yourself (or hiring a cleaning crew) to make it truly feel like yours. Especially things like:

• Inside kitchen cabinets

• Bathroom surfaces

• Baseboards (yes, those exist)

• Vents and ceiling fans (hello, dust city)

This is way easier before your furniture is in the way.

🔥 6. Stock Up on Safety Essentials

It’s not glamorous, but it’s necessary.

• Smoke detectors (and extra batteries)

• Carbon monoxide detectors

• Fire extinguishers (at least one for the kitchen)

• First aid kit

• Flashlights

You don’t want to be the person using a scented candle as an emergency light source. Trust us.

📦 7. Create a “Day One” Box

Moving day is chaos. You won’t find your toothbrush. You’ll eat cold pizza on a paint can. It’s fine — but, pack a single box with your essentials:

• Phone chargers

• Toilet paper

• Paper towels

• Trash bags

• Cleaning wipes

• Shower curtain and towels

• Coffee maker or kettle (non-negotiable)

Label it “Open First” or draw 12 stars and fireworks on it. Whatever gets your attention.

🛒 8. Restock the Basics

You’re starting from scratch now — no more roommate’s shampoo or shared salt shaker. Go on your first homeowner Target run (it’s a rite of passage) for:

• Toiletries

• Pantry staples

• Cleaning supplies

• Tools like plungers and brooms (boring but crucial)

Also: don’t forget light bulbs. You’ll realize one is out just as night falls.

🎉 9. Plan Your Housewarming — When You’re Ready

Whether you’re throwing a full-blown bash or a low-key pizza night with friends, celebrate this huge milestone. You earned it!

Want a pro move? Create a wishlist or registry for house stuff you still need. People want to bring something anyway — and honestly, you don’t need 3 bottles of Pinot Grigio when what you really need is a mop. Or do you? We’re not here to judge.

Buying your first home is a huge accomplishment — but moving in is just the beginning. This checklist helps you settle in smart, stay sane, and actually enjoy your new space (without too many surprises along the way).