Guides

9 mistakes every first-time homeowner makes (and how to skip them)

Almost every first-timer makes the same handful of mistakes. Here they are, so you can skip them.

The nine, briefly

1. Not knowing where the water, gas and electrical shut-offs are. 2. No maintenance routine. 3. Letting small leaks slide. 4. Renovating big in year one before living in the space. 5. Under-insuring, or not understanding the policy. 6. Forgetting the water heater and dryer vent. 7. Cheap throwaway tools. 8. No folder for manuals and warranties. 9. DIY-ing electrical or gas work that really needs a pro.

The one habit that prevents most of them

Live in the house for a full year before any big renovation, and keep a simple maintenance calendar from week one. Those two habits quietly prevent the majority of expensive first-year regrets.

Common questions

What is the biggest first-time homeowner mistake?

Renovating big before living in the home for a year. You make better, cheaper decisions once you understand how you actually use the space.

Should I renovate right after buying?

Usually no. Do the safety and maintenance basics first, live through all four seasons, then renovate with real knowledge of the home.