Buying your first Waterloo Region home is an exciting, if occasionally stressful process, but, once the closing is over, and they have the keys to their new home in hand, it all seems worth it.
The first few months in a new home are usually spent unpacking, arranging (and rearranging) furniture and getting to know their new home, and new neighbourhood. Eventually things settle down though, and most new homeowners begin to think of turning their attention to making the kinds of changes to their new space that they never could when renting a home, or living with their family. But what to do first?
In today’s post, we’re offering some advice for first-time homeowners on areas they may want to consider changing about their Waterloo Region home, where spending a little more is likely to pay off in the long-run.
From valuable aesthetic updates in key areas such as the kitchen, bathroom and living room to installing smart heating systems and insulation to prioritize energy efficiency, our tips will leave you inspired to make the most out of your first home update.
Replacing Flooring
Flooring has the power to change a room entirely, so it should go without saying that this is an essential aspect of the home where you should consider spending a little extra. Since flooring in areas such as the hallway, kitchen and bathroom is likely to undergo high footfall traffic, your material choice should always look to combine durability with that visual wow-factor where possible.
When it comes to updating your flooring, choose neutral colours to create a luxe look that goes the distance. Generally, these shades and hues offer you the freedom to change your furniture or accessories without updating all the fixtures and fittings in the process, and will even allow you to keep up with trends as they change.
Whether you’re opting for some stylish, large format floor tiles which offer a contemporary touch in the kitchen or some hardwood flooring which adds warmth to your living room, quality flooring is a great way to add personality to a new space from the off – meaning showing your floors a little TLC should be high up on your list of investment priorities.
Key Area Updates
As the hub of the home where friends and family alike come together to relax, the living room is the best place to start when it comes to fixtures and fittings. Lighting can have a huge impact on the overall aesthetic in your living room – so it’s worth spending a little bit more on lamps or downlighters to add that cozy, homely touch to the lounge.
Additionally, art is a great way to change the ambiance in your living room, so choosing pieces with comfort and calmness in mind is a great way to add a tranquil theme that makes you feel right at home from the get-go.
Naturally, ensuring your bathroom looks fresh, well maintained and hygienic is important when moving into any new home. Modern or high-tech touches are an effective way to add an extra luxury appeal, so consider investing in a rain shower or waterfall taps to create a relaxing oasis that washes away the stresses of moving and unpacking.
Elsewhere in the home, high-end fittings such as granite or quartz worktops are practical choices that will go the distance. Though these may be a large investment initially, investing in durable, hard-wearing and practical materials in areas of frequent use ensures longevity and, as such, a great return on your investment in the long-run.
Furniture Upgrades
Nothing makes a house feel like home quite like furniture – after all, furniture is the most effective way of adding character to any space. When opting for new furnishings that match your style, try to prioritize items that will stand the test of time, as this will ensure your first few years in your new home are not spent constantly renovating in-line with the latest trends.
When choosing timeless furniture, wood is often the first material which springs to mind. While solid wood is often more expensive than other types, it boasts a distinctive aesthetic and durability that will look great year after year. Whether you’re purchasing an oak cabinet for the living room or some luxury walnut bedroom cabinets, solid wood is an effective way to add a high-end, comforting appeal to your home.
Prioritizing Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is now one of the highest priorities for Waterloo Region homeowners, as it can make a significant difference in the cost of utility bills while making homeowners feel better about their personal impact on the planet.
While adding energy-efficient features may be a large initial investment, the sooner you start making the changes, the greater your savings will be – so we recommend optimizing your new home early in your ownership of it.
Some essential areas to evaluate energy efficiency are the water heater and the attic. Poorly insulated attics can be a major cause of energy wastage, even if all of your other appliances - like your HVAC system - are in premium condition. If appliances such as your hot water heater aren’t in great shape, however, this could only add more costs to your energy bills, particularly if it breaks down during the winter months. Also, being without heat, even for a day, in our chilly KW winters is no fun.
To keep track of your heating usage and spot issues early, a smart heating system is a great way to monitor your spending. Smart heaters allow you to add more thermostats and controls to different rooms, including hot water and heating – making this a logical investment for any first home.
It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of moving into a new house, but with our tips, we hope you’ll be on your way to making worthwhile investments in your first home. If you’re still in search of that dream first house, contact Team Pinto. Let us use our huge local real estate experience and expertise to help you. Contact us directly here, or book a free Zoom consultation to discuss your unique Waterloo Region real estate needs at a time that's most convenient for you.