Congratulations! You’ve crossed the exciting finish line and officially become a homeowner. Owning a home is an incredible milestone, but it also comes with new responsibilities—and a learning curve.
At Homeperk, we want to help you enjoy your new home stress-free and build a foundation for long-term success. Whether this is your first home or your first time managing your own place, here are some essential tips every new homeowner should know.
- Create a Home Maintenance Schedule
Owning a home means keeping up with regular maintenance to avoid costly repairs later. Set reminders for seasonal tasks like:
- Changing HVAC filters every 3 months
- Cleaning gutters in spring and fall
- Checking smoke and carbon monoxide detectors every 6 months
- Inspecting your roof and exterior annually
A little preventative care goes a long way!
Build an Emergency Fund
Unexpected repairs happen—a broken water heater, a leaky roof, or an HVAC issue can pop up anytime. Having an emergency fund dedicated to home repairs can save you stress and protect your finances.
Aim to save at least 1%–3% of your home’s value annually for upkeep.
3. Understand Your Mortgage
Make sure you fully understand the terms of your mortgage:
- When is your payment due each month?
- Are your taxes and insurance included in your escrow?
- What happens if you want to refinance or pay extra?
Knowing this helps you avoid surprises and plan your budget.
4. Get to Know Your Neighbors and Community
Being part of a neighborhood makes your home feel like home. Introduce yourself, join local groups, and stay informed about community news. Good neighbors can be a valuable resource—and great friends!
5. Protect Your Investment with Insurance
Review your homeowner’s insurance policy to understand what’s covered and what’s not. Consider adding:
- Flood or earthquake insurance if you live in vulnerable areas
- Umbrella insurance for extra liability protection
6. Keep Important Documents Organized
From your purchase paperwork to warranties and appliance manuals, keep all home-related documents in one safe place—physical or digital. This helps with insurance claims, resale, and repairs.
7. Plan for Energy Efficiency
Lower your utility bills by making small upgrades:
- Seal windows and doors to prevent drafts
- Use programmable thermostats
- Switch to energy-efficient light bulbs and appliances
You’ll save money and help the planet.
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8. Regularly Review Your Budget
Homeownership brings ongoing costs beyond the mortgage—utilities, maintenance, property taxes, and sometimes HOA fees. Regularly review your budget to stay on top of expenses and avoid surprises.
9. Stay Educated
Homeownership is a journey. Take advantage of resources like Homeperk’s free education, workshops, and coaching to learn how to manage your home and finances confidently.
First-time homebuyers can qualify for a mortgage with as little as 3% down* and HomePerk can help you cover the downpayment or closing costs.
Final Thoughts
Buying a home is just the beginning. With a little planning and care, your new home can be a source of pride, comfort, and financial growth for years to come.
If you have questions or want personalized advice on managing your home or finances, Homeperk is here to help—for free.
👉 Reach out anytime and start your homeowner journey with confidence!
*Down payment assistance offered pursuant to your employer’s down payment assistance benefit plan and is accomplished through an unsecured down payment assistance loan. The down payment assistance loans may be provided by CharlieMike Financial, Inc. or other partner banks or credit unions. Certain restrictions apply. Subject to borrower qualification and subject to obtaining a mortgage from an eligible mortgage partner.
$0 down is based on obtaining a mortgage for 97% of the purchase price of your home from an eligible mortgage partner and funding the other 3% of the purchase price with a down payment assistance loan. The down payment assistance loan has a term of 60 months and the borrower experiences an interest rate of 0% (actual note rate 12%), assuming all principal payments are made when due by the borrower, as the result of the rate being permanently bought down. Buydown funds may not be redeemed for cash or credit and are nontransferable. The monthly payment on a $10,000 loan at 0% interest for a 60-month term is $166.67. Subject to certain conditions.