25 Things Every New Homeowner Should Consider Buying

Buy before the first night

A handful of items make the first evening workable, especially if the move ran late and the utilities were only switched over that morning.

• Working smoke and carbon-monoxide alarms, or fresh batteries for the existing ones
• A flashlight on each floor
• A basic hand-tool set and a cordless drill
• Toilet plunger, paper goods and a first cleaning kit
• Shower curtain, light bulbs and a power strip

Buy in the first fortnight

Once the boxes are open you start finding what the house actually needs. This is the point at which measuring tools and storage earn their keep.

• Measuring tape, level and stud finder
• Screwdriver set, pliers and an adjustable wrench
• Step ladder rated for your weight and reach
• Vacuum, mop and microfiber cloths
• Doormats for every exterior door
• Storage bins and a label maker

Buy in the first season

The rest can wait until you know how the house behaves through a hot Silicon Valley summer and the first winter rains.

• Correctly sized HVAC filters and a reminder in the calendar
• Garden hose, hose storage and basic gardening tools
• Leaf rake and an outdoor broom before autumn
• Fire extinguishers for the kitchen and garage
• Water-leak sensors under sinks and the water heater
• A fireproof document bag for deeds and insurance papers
• An emergency kit with water, a radio and spare batteries
• A binder for permits, warranties and service records

What not to rush

Anything involving the roof, the electrical panel, gas lines, main water lines or structural framing is not a shopping problem. Buying a tool does not make that work safe or legal to do yourself, and permit-required work done informally can complicate a future sale.