Buying your first home is an exciting and often intimidating process. While you may love the property, there are likely a few aesthetic or functional changes you’d like to address. Perhaps the home doesn’t have a dedicated deck space, or you want to finish the basement. It can be hard to know where to start when it comes to upgrades. Knowing what other homebuyers prioritize may help add inspiration to your decisions.
In a home that isn’t energy efficient, you waste power, have trouble with climate control, and your energy bills skyrocket. First-time homebuyers quickly realize the importance of proper ventilation and insulation in their homes. Attics require adequate ventilation to maintain stable temperatures. Windows and doors should be properly sealed, and insulation should be added to pipes, walls, floors, and ceilings. Windows can have double or triple-glazed panes for better insulation without sacrificing natural light. Energy-efficient HVAC systems and other appliances can help you save money and power, too. These upgrades can be spaced out, but ultimately will make for a more comfortable and affordable home.
The backyard space is an excellent place to entertain and relax, surrounded by the beauty of nature. By building a deck or patio, adding landscaping and hardscaping, and installing outdoor amenities you’d like to use, you’re expanding your first home’s living space. First-time homebuyers love sprucing up their backyard, including adding a pool, sports court, or outdoor kitchen. Before you begin, ensure that you create a thorough plan to prevent overcrowding. Prioritize the features you want most first, and don’t forget to add a touch of greenery. Before adding furniture or container gardens, you’ll want a dedicated patio foundation or deck to protect you, your lawn, and your furniture. Consider climate and year-round usage when you choose materials and layouts. Decks in Orlando, FL, will benefit from cooling materials and shade; a deck builder in Forest Hills, TN, may also benefit from outdoor fireplaces or fire pits. Custom patio or deck designs can allow first-time homebuyers to enjoy the outdoor space they’ve been waiting for.
A kitchen is typically the main priority for first-time homebuyers to upgrade. A more efficient layout, a larger space, updated cabinets, high-quality countertops, and an attractive backsplash can completely change an outdated kitchen into a tailored and comfortable cooking space. Kitchens often serve as entertainment and dining areas in modern homes, so upgrades are made to accommodate these as well; even those who don’t cook prefer a modern and spacious kitchen.
It’s not unusual for an older home to have only one bathroom. Many homeowners opt to expand their bathroom space or modernize it. Adding a bathroom is a common goal, especially for families that can benefit from having more than one toilet. Larger showers or tubs, ample counterspace, and double sinks are also prevalent upgrades in home bathrooms. Split tubs and showers are also favored among many couples. A bathroom is a high-traffic area of the home; it should be comfortable and meet your needs.
Modern technology can make home automation a breeze. You can control media, security systems, appliances, and climate with a single app or device, making it easy for you to focus on what matters most. After installing the internet, most first-time homebuyers add smart thermostats, streaming devices, and doorbell cameras to keep the place secure and comfortable. You can add whatever devices you’ll find the most helpful in your home; smart technology is adaptable to any family’s needs, and it’s easy to install—or remove—whenever you’d like.
Garages are an excellent convenience to provide shelter for your vehicle, storage for outdoor equipment, and more. Many homes don’t come with a garage, leaving vehicles vulnerable during extreme temperatures. Adding a garage, particularly a separate one on your property, is a fairly easy and affordable project. Carports are cheaper alternatives, but are less protective, and won’t provide any additional storage space. For homes already equipped with garages, many homeowners add door openers, better climate control, and extra lighting to make work or yard projects easier.
You can save a significant amount on a home if you purchase a property with an unfinished basement, attic, or both. Without finishing these spaces, they tend to remain workshops or laundry rooms. Many homebuyers opt to finish their attics or basements to add additional bedroom space or even a media or entertainment room. Basements make excellent theater rooms due to their good acoustics and lack of natural light, which prevents glare on screens. Attics can also make wonderful craft rooms or playrooms for kids. If you’re willing to put in the work, consider renovating these spaces to meet your needs.
As a first-time homebuyer, you likely have a decent list of upgrades you’d like to tackle in your new space. Even if all you want to do is change the paint colors, knowing what to tackle first can help bring comfort and style to your home quickly. Most first-time homebuyers install upgrades in their high-traffic rooms, such as the bathroom and kitchen. Adding smart technology can make home management more convenient. Sprucing up the outdoor space can make it easier to entertain or connect with nature in your home. For those with unfinished basements or garages, making these spaces more attractive and functional can help your home reach its full potential.
