Introduction:

Buying your first home? Congrats! But the real work begins after move-in day. Maintenance is key to keeping your investment (and sanity) intact. This guide walks you through essential upkeep tasks that every new homeowner should know.

1. Know Your Systems

Familiarize yourself with:

• Water shut-off valves

• Circuit breakers

• HVAC system

• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Take photos and label items to save time later.

2. Create a Maintenance Calendar

Break down annual tasks into manageable monthly checklists:

• Monthly: HVAC filters, drain checks, appliance cleaning

• Quarterly: Gutter inspection, safety alarms

• Biannually: Roof inspection, deep cleaning, plumbing checks

• Annually: Chimney cleaning, water heater flush, exterior touch-ups

3. Emergency Fund & Toolkit

Repairs are inevitable — plan ahead.

• Save 1% of your home’s value yearly for maintenance.

• Must-have tools: wrench set, drill, plunger, multi-head screwdriver, ladder.

4. Get to Know the Pros

Build a network of reliable service professionals:

• Electricians

• Plumbers

• HVAC techs

• General handymen

Conclusion:

Homeownership is a journey, and maintenance is your roadmap to stress-free living. Be proactive, organized, and never hesitate to ask for help — your future self will thank you.