Buying a new home is one of the biggest events in life. New homeowners surveyed by Zillow in 2023 said they became overwhelmed by the amount of buying required to land comfortably in their new place, with 65% saying that they were staggered by what had to be purchased. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a move-up buyer, understanding what to build in a new house can save you time, money and stress.
This all-inclusive new house checklist is designed to help you navigate every key category — from cleaning and safety, to furniture, smart home tech and maintenance — to help turn your new place into the cozy, functional and safe home you want it to be.
1. Cleaning Essentials
The first step to moving into your new house is making sure it’s clean. Even if it’s a brand-new home, cleaning up after the movers and giving your new space a fresh start is crucial.
Key Cleaning Items to Have:
Vacuum Cleaner: A vacuum is essential for keeping floors clean. A high-quality vacuum that works on both carpet and hardwood floors will make a big difference. Consider getting a robot vacuum like the eufy Robot Vacuum 3-in-1 E20 for effortless all-surface cleaning.
Broom and Dustpan: Perfect for cleaning up small messes and quick pick-ups. Keep 1 in the kitchen and 1 in the garage for convenient access.
Mop and Bucket: You won’t get rid of a traditional mop and bucket any time soon; you’ll need to use it to clean floors, especially in the kitchen and bathrooms.
Cleaning Cloths and Sponges: Load up microfiber cloths to clean countertops, mirrors and other surfaces without streaks. And sponges also make quick work of more stubborn cleansing tasks, especially in the kitchen.
Multipurpose Cleaner: A non-toxic all-purpose cleaner for most surfaces including countertops, sinks, and tables.
Disinfectant Spray: A good disinfectant is needed for high-touch surfaces, like doorknobs, light switches and countertops.
Trash Bins and Bags: Ensure you have bins for each room, plus recycling bins. Remember to buy trash bags in various sizes to fit your bins.
eufy Robot Vacuum: The eufy S1 Pro is an ideal addition to your new home essentials for hands-free, efficient cleaning. It features advanced suction power, hydrojet cleaning technology, and a self-cleaning station.
Pro Tip: According to the EPA, regularly disinfecting your home reduces the spread of common illnesses — an essential practice, especially in multi-person households.
2. Safety Essentials
Safety is one of the most important considerations when setting up your new house. From fire safety to surveillance, these items will ensure that your home is secure.
Key Safety Items to Have:
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Make sure you have detectors in key areas, such as the kitchen, hallways, and bedrooms. Test them before moving in and replace the batteries as necessary.
Fire Extinguisher: Always have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen, and consider adding one to other areas, such as the garage.
First Aid Kit: Keep a well-stocked first aid kit on hand for minor injuries. This should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary medications.
eufy Security Cameras: For enhanced security, invest in eufy security cameras for both indoor and outdoor monitoring. These cameras offer high-definition video quality and can be accessed remotely via a smartphone app.
Flashlights and Batteries: Always have flashlights with spare batteries on hand in case of power outages.
Door and Window Locks: Ensure all doors and windows are equipped with sturdy locks. Upgrade to smart locks for added convenience.
Data Insight: As per Criminal Victimization, 2017 study homes with security systems are 300% less likely to be burglarized (US Department of Justice).
3. Furniture and Home Essentials
Furnishing your home is one of the most exciting steps in settling into your new space. From the living room to the bedroom, these essential items will help create a comfortable and stylish environment.
Living Room Essentials:
Sofa: The sofa is often the centerpiece of the living room. Choose one that fits your style and provides comfort for guests and family.
Coffee Table: A functional coffee table will add style and provide a surface for drinks, remote controls, and decor.
Lighting: Good lighting is key to setting the ambiance. Invest in a combination of table lamps, floor lamps, and overhead lighting to brighten up your space.
Bookshelves and Storage: Shelving units and storage cabinets help keep your living area organized and can double as decorative pieces.
Bedroom Essentials:
Bed and Mattress: A comfortable bed and mattress are non-negotiable for a good night’s sleep. Choose one that fits your space and provides the support you need.
Nightstands: These small tables are essential for keeping your bedside essentials organized, such as lamps, books, and alarm clocks.
Closet Organizers: Maximize closet space with hanging rods, storage bins, and drawer organizers.
Kitchen Essentials:
Dining Table and Chairs: A solid dining table and comfortable chairs are essential for family meals or entertaining guests.
Cookware: A quality set of pots, pans, and baking sheets is necessary for preparing meals. Be sure to include a cutting board, utensils, and measuring cups as well.
Appliances: Ensure that your home is equipped with a refrigerator, stove, and microwave. Additional small appliances like a coffee maker and toaster are also handy.
Office Essentials:
Desk and Chair: If you work from home or need a dedicated space for managing bills, a comfortable desk and ergonomic chair are must-haves.
Storage Solutions: Invest in storage cabinets or file organizers to keep paperwork neat and accessible.
Outdoor Essentials
Key Outdoor Items:
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Patio Furniture: A small outdoor seating set for relaxation or entertaining guests.
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Lawn Care Tools: If you have a garden or lawn, you’ll need gardening tools and a robot mower like the eufy Robot Mower E15 for maintaining your yard.
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Doormat: A doormat will help keep dirt out of your apartment and offer a welcoming touch for guests.
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BBQ Grill: A small grill is perfect for cooking outdoors, especially if you enjoy hosting.
5. Home Organization and Storage Solutions
Maximizing your storage space is essential for keeping your home organized and functional. These items help reduce clutter and keep your home tidy.
Storage Essentials:
Shelving Units: Great for books, decor, and everyday items.
Under-Bed Storage: Maximize unused space for seasonal items or extra clothing.
Closet Organizers: Drawer dividers, hanging rods, and bins will help keep your closet neat and organized.
Storage Bins and Baskets: Perfect for organizing everything from office supplies to toys and cleaning tools.
6. Smart Home Essentials
Incorporating smart technology into your new home can make life easier and more convenient. These devices can help control lighting, security, and even your home’s climate. Smart home adoption is growing rapidly — Gartner predicts 75% of homes will have smart devices by 2025.
Smart Home Items:
Smart Thermostat: Control the temperature from your phone for optimal energy savings and comfort.
Smart Plugs: Control appliances and lights remotely via your smartphone or voice assistant.
Smart Lights: Customize your home’s lighting to set the mood or save energy.
Smart Doorbell: A smart doorbell, like eufy Security Cameras, lets you see who’s at your door from anywhere.
7. Maintenance Essentials
It’s important to stay on top of home repairs to keep everything functioning smoothly. Here are some basic items to ensure you’re prepared for maintenance tasks.
Maintenance Items to Buy:
Tool Kit: A basic toolkit with a hammer, screwdriver, and measuring tape is essential for minor repairs and furniture assembly.
Light Bulbs: Keep extra bulbs on hand, preferably energy-efficient LED bulbs.
Batteries: Stock up on common battery sizes for remotes, smoke detectors, and other devices.
Extension Cords: Useful for powering devices in rooms with limited outlets.
Ladder: A step ladder is handy for cleaning or reaching high places.
8. Additional Comfort Essentials
To make your home truly comfortable, consider adding these finishing touches that will enhance your living space.
Comfort Items to Consider:
Air Purifiers: Keep the air in your new home fresh, especially if you suffer from allergies.
Blankets and Throws: Add comfort and warmth to your living room or bedroom.
House Plants: Indoor plants help purify the air and add a touch of nature to your home.
Candles and Diffusers: Enhance the atmosphere with your favorite scents.
Bonus Section: Budgeting and Prioritizing Your Purchases
Moving into a new house or your first home is exciting, but it can quickly become expensive if you try to buy everything at once. Research shows that the average homeowner spends between $5,000 and $15,000 on initial home setup costs — a substantial investment that calls for careful budgeting and prioritization.
To avoid financial strain and ensure you get the most important essentials first, it’s wise to approach your purchases in stages. Here’s a data-driven strategy to help you prioritize and budget effectively:
Safety and Security Devices — Your Top Priority
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), homes with working smoke alarms reduce the risk of death in fires by 50%. Security systems, including smart locks and cameras, lower burglary risk by up to 300% (U.S. Department of Justice). These are critical new home essentials for protecting your family and property.
Budget Tip: Allocate 15-20% of your initial setup budget on safety essentials like smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, fire extinguishers, door/window locks, and surveillance cameras such as eufy security cameras. Protecting your family and belongings always comes first.
Cleaning Supplies — For a Healthy Living Environment
Data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) emphasizes the impact of indoor air quality and cleanliness on health. Investing early in quality cleaning tools reduces allergens and bacteria, contributing to a healthier home environment.
Budget Tip: Plan to spend 10-15% on cleaning essentials including vacuums, brooms, disinfectants, and automated helpers like robot vacuums (eufy Robot Vacuum S1 Pro). Keeping your space clean from day one can save costly health issues down the road. Having these things to buy for a new house ready to move-in helps you maintain a fresh and healthy environment.
Furniture — Essential Comfort and Functionality
Furnishing your home represents one of the largest expenses. The American Furniture Manufacturers Association notes the average American spends roughly $4,000-$6,000 on essential furniture when moving into a new home. Investing in quality furniture is one of the most important things to buy for a new house to create a comfortable living space.
Budget Tip: Prioritize key pieces like a bed, sofa, dining table, and chairs — these should take up around 40-50% of your budget on home setup. Start with quality over quantity; investing in durable and comfortable furniture reduces future replacement costs.
Kitchen Basics — Fuel for Daily Living
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average household spends about $7,000 annually on food, so a functional kitchen is critical to manage costs and eat healthily.
Budget Tip: Dedicate 10-15% of your setup budget to kitchen essentials — cookware, utensils, appliances, and storage containers. A well-equipped kitchen encourages cooking at home, which can save over $3,000 yearly compared to dining out (USDA data).
Smart Devices and Décor — The Finishing Touches
Smart home technology not only improves convenience but also enhances energy efficiency. According to the Consumer Technology Association, smart thermostats alone can reduce heating and cooling bills by up to 12%.
Budget Tip: Allocate the remaining 10-20% of your budget to smart devices like thermostats, lights, plugs, and security cameras, plus decorative items that personalize your space. Gradually adding these items lets you spread costs over time while improving your home environment.
Additional Tips for Budgeting Your New Home Essentials
Use a Tiered Shopping Approach: Break your purchases into “must-haves,” “nice-to-haves,” and “luxury upgrades” to focus spending.
Look for Bundles and Deals: Many brands like eufy offer bundle deals on security cameras and smart devices, saving up to 20-30%.
Consider Secondhand or Rental Options: For furniture and appliances, lightly used or rental options can reduce upfront costs by 40-60%.
Track Your Spending: Use budgeting apps or spreadsheets to monitor purchases and adjust priorities as needed.
Conclusion
Settling into your new home can be overwhelming, but with this new home checklist, you’ll be able to equip your space with everything you need to make it comfortable, secure, and functional. From cleaning essentials to furniture, security cameras like eufy security cameras, and robot mowers, this guide ensures you have all the essentials to make your house feel like a true home. By investing in these key items and organizing your purchases by category, you’ll make the moving process more efficient and enjoy a seamless transition into your new home.
FAQs
Q1. What tools do I need for basic home maintenance? Basic tools include a hammer, screwdrivers, pliers, a wrench set, a tape measure, a level, and a power drill. These will help with repairs and assembly tasks.
Q2. What home maintenance items should I buy for my new house? Essential home maintenance items include a ladder, hose, extension cords, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, a tool kit, and a basic cleaning kit.
Q3. Should I invest in security items for my first home? Yes, investing in security essentials like eufy security cameras, door/window locks, and a smart doorbell is crucial for ensuring your new home is safe and secure.
Q4. How can I make my new home more energy-efficient? To improve energy efficiency, invest in energy-saving appliances, smart thermostats, LED lighting, and proper insulation to reduce utility bills and environmental impact.
Q5. What are the best smart home devices for my new house? Key smart home devices include a smart thermostat, smart lights, smart plugs, and smart security cameras like eufy security cameras.