Homebuyer Must-Haves: 12 Essential Items Every New Homeowner Should Buy
Buying a home is an exciting milestone—but once the keys are in your hand, the real work begins. As a real estate attorney, I’ve seen firsthand what new homeowners wish they had ready from day one. Whether you're buying your first home or helping someone who is, here's a list of practical, important, and often overlooked items every new homeowner should own.
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🧯 1. Fireproof Safe for Important Documents
Your closing documents, title, insurance policies, and IDs should be kept secure and accessible. A fireproof safe offers protection from theft, water damage, and accidents.
➡️ Fireproof Safe on Amazon
📁 2. Document Organizer or Legal-Size Accordion File
Trust me: you’ll accumulate more paperwork than you think. A labeled file folder or accordion file makes it easy to find your warranty info, receipts, and service contracts later.
➡️ Legal Document Organizer
🔧 3. Basic Homeowner’s Toolkit
A hammer, measuring tape, screwdrivers, pliers, level, and power drill—these are day-one essentials. From hanging curtains to assembling furniture, you’ll use them constantly.
➡️ Essential Tool Kit
📦 4. Moving Labels or Color-Coded Stickers
Want a stress-free move? Label your boxes by room with pre-printed stickers. It speeds up unpacking and helps movers place boxes where they belong.
➡️ Moving Box Labels
📚 5. Home Maintenance Binder or Planner
Track your appliance info, repair records, paint colors, and landscaping service dates in one place. A dedicated binder or digital organizer keeps your investment protected.
➡️ Homeowner Planner
🔐 6. Smart Doorbell or Security Camera
Security brings peace of mind, especially when you're still getting to know your new neighborhood. A doorbell camera is a worthwhile early investment.
➡️ Video Doorbell Camera
🧼 7. Deep Cleaning Kit
Moving into a "clean" home is rarely as clean as you’d like. Stock up on disinfecting wipes, gloves, scrub brushes, and floor cleaner before you start unpacking.
➡️ Home Cleaning Starter Kit
🔌 8. Surge Protectors and Extension Cords
You never realize how many outlets you need until you're setting up your TV, computer, or charging stations. Protect your electronics and give yourself layout flexibility.
➡️ Surge Protectors Pack
🕯️ 9. Emergency Light Sources
Power outages happen. Keep a couple of LED lanterns or flashlights in accessible spots. Battery-powered or rechargeable options are best.
➡️ Rechargeable LED Lanterns
📬 10. Custom Address Stamp or Labels
Save time with a personalized stamp for return addresses. It’s useful for sending out change-of-address notices or thank-you cards.
➡️ Custom Address Stamp
🪑 11. Furniture Sliders
New floors = a new fear of scratches. Furniture sliders make rearranging furniture easier and protect your surfaces during move-in day.
➡️ Furniture Slider Set
🛠️ 12. A Local Handyman’s Number
Okay, this isn’t a product—but it's invaluable. Find a local pro who can help with small jobs you don’t have time or tools for. Ask your real estate agent, attorney (like me), or neighbors for a referral.
🎁 Bonus Tip: Create a “First Night” Box
Before move-in, pack a single box with essentials:
Trash bags
Paper towels
Toilet paper
Phone chargers
Snacks and bottled water
A box cutter
Your toothbrush + pajamas
You’ll thank yourself when you’re too tired to dig through boxes.
✅ Final Thoughts
You’ve invested a lot into your home—make it work for you from the start. These must-haves aren’t about spending big; they’re about starting smart. I give many of these items as client gifts because they’re truly useful.
👉 Want my full Homebuyer Checklist with legal and practical tips?
