New home? Expect these repairs the first year

New home? Expect these repairs in the first year

May is National Moving Month, so in honor of that, we’re dedicating our blog posts to this topic all month long. This week, we’re focusing on common repairs that pop up in the first year of homeownership, so you can be prepared for whatever may come.

Cosmetic repairs are usually the focus of new homeowners, and that makes sense. You want your home to become the space of your dreams! But there’s a joke that says homes can sense a new owner and things start breaking because of it. Even with inspections, sometimes it’s best to expect the unexpected that first year in your new home. That's why many industry professionals recommend new homeowners setting aside some savings dedicated to unexpected home repairs.

As the boxes get unpacked and you get used to your new home, it’s a good idea to make sure your appliances and HVAC system are in good working order. Schedule seasonal maintenance or repairs and updates to lessen the chances that you’ll wake up freezing cold from a dead furnace. Do a full walkthrough of your home. Did all those repairs the previous owner was supposed to complete get done? If not, reach out to your real estate agent to get things corrected. Make sure all of your utilities are turned on and that there aren’t any urgent repairs.  

A few months in is when homeowners typically start to see things that need repair or to be replaced. Here are the most common repairs that top the list:

-Many new homeowners swear by the myth that the AC or furnace is destined to go out on the hottest or coldest day of the year, respectively, in the first year (or two) of homeownership.

-Water damage to walls, cabinets, floors, etc., from leaks or plumbing issues came in a close second.

-Rodent problems and expenses from pest-proofing the home came in third.

-Major roof problems and replacements were next.

-Electrical problems are also common, whether you need new outlets and switches or have to make sure everything is up to code.

-Another common replacement was appliances, whether the dishwasher, washer/dryer, refrigerator, etc., many people's major appliances needed repair or replacement within the first year.

Homeownership is a journey, and while it may seem scary, things do get better. If your home is need of some repair, give Hunter Handyman Services a call at (815) 780-7884 for more information and a free estimate.