Purchasing a home in our housing cooperative is an exciting time for many. However, for some, it can also be intimidating and stressful. As with any relocation, there are many moving parts all going on at one time: applying, financing, packing, moving, renting trucks, unpacking, setting up, cleaning, etc...

After the dust settles, you may think it's time to just move on to your daily doings and simply enjoy living in your new home. For the most part, you'd be right, but there are some things you should know to prepare for a long, successful run in your new home. Below. we've compiled a list of things to consider after purchasing your first home so you feel confident that you are getting started on the right foot as a new homeowner.

Pace Yourself With Projects

We all know how exciting it is moving into a new space and while it's fun to picture all kinds of minor upgrades to the rooms, it is important to pace yourself. Starting too many projects at one time can be overwhelming and time consuming. Start small and take on one job at a time. Paint the livingroom this month and the bedroom next month, for example. Pacing yourself will ease up on your budget and stress levels. Don't worry, in time, all your projects will get finished, they just don't all have to get done at once.

Create a Schedule for Replacing Furnace Filters

As a new homeowner, all the elements of routine maintenance can be easily forgotten. Time flies when you're busy working, schooling, cooking, cleaning, etc... Even though you may have had the greatest intention to replace your furnace filter monthly, like the staff at the Cedarwood office recommended, you may have let 3 months pass before actually remembering to get it done.

Be proactive, set a timer on your phone to remind you monthly or add it to your yearly planner. Some homeowners even purchase and dedicate a planner specifically for routine home maintenance so they don't forget. Some furnace filters are designed to last 3 or 6 months, but most are monthly, so plan accordingly.

Check Smoke Detectors Yearly

Same concept as the topic above, schedule a time every 6 or 12 months to check the batteries on your smoke detectors. Have a few spare batteries on hand in case the battery dies in the middle of the night. It's never fun trying to sleep with the sharp, chirping noise of a failing smoke detector battery. While you're at it, you might consider checking your carbon monoxide detectors and replacing any burned out light bulbs as well.

Consider Storage for Newly Purchased Tools

When you move into a home for the first time, there will likely be some new tools you will have to buy. As a first-time home-buyer, you may need simple tools such as a hammer, screwdriver, wrench, or pliers. These are easy to store in an empty drawer or on a shelf. But what about the big tools that you will undoubtedly need to invest in like a lawn mower, trimmer and rake? Well, whatever you do, do not let these investments sit outside to rust all year long. Find a storage location for all your outdoor equipment indoors as you buy them and consider storage before you buy. Instead of choosing that riding lawn mower that will require lifting to the basement for storage, instead, maybe you opt for the compact, lightweight lawn mower that is easier to move.

Repair As You Go - Don't Wait for Repairs to Build Up

It may just seem like a little nail hole in the wall, but as time goes on and your decor changes, all those nail holes really add up. Repair an empty nail hole right away so the damage doesn't build up over time. Be sure to get that leaky faucet taken care of before it becomes a bigger problem. Our maintenance staff at Cedarwood Housing Cooperative is always available to help with minor repairs. Take advantage of this feature included in your membership and call as soon as you have a problem.

So there you have it. As a new homeowner at Cedarwood, or anywhere for that matter, it's important to remember the above things to be sure you are starting off on the right foot. When you're ready to commit to being a homeowner, call our office at 708-747-3833 or stop by our Cedar Street office Monday thru Friday for more information or to apply!