5 Home Maintenance Tips Every New Homeowner Should Know

Buying a home is an exciting milestone but it also comes with a long list of responsibilities. Unlike renting, there’s no landlord to call when something breaks or routine upkeep is needed. Whether your home is brand new, recently renovated, or a charming older property, knowing how to stay on top of maintenance will protect your investment and keep daily life running smoothly. Here are five home maintenance tips every new homeowner should have on their checklist:

Learn the Basics of Your Home’s Systems

As soon as you move in, get to know how your home functions — from the electrical panel to the main water shut-off valve. If an emergency happens, like a burst pipe or power outage, knowing these locations can save you stress and costly damage. This knowledge will make you feel more confident when handling unexpected issues.

• Label circuit breakers clearly.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Learn how to reset your furnace, water heater, or breaker box.

Prioritize Seasonal Maintenance

Every season brings its own to-do list, but tackling small tasks regularly prevents bigger (and more expensive) problems later. Make a calendar to remind yourself of key chores, or hire professionals when necessary. For example:

• Spring: Clean gutters, check for winter roof damage, and service your HVAC system.
• Summer: Inspect outdoor decks, siding, and windows; trim trees away from the home.
• Fall: Rake leaves, winterize outdoor faucets, and schedule a furnace tune-up.
• Winter: Watch for ice dams and keep pathways clear of snow to prevent slips.

Build a Basic Tool Kit

You don’t need a full workshop, but a few essential tools will help you handle minor repairs confidently. A hammer, screwdriver set, wrench, pliers, measuring tape, stud finder, and power drill should cover most small projects. As you grow more comfortable, you can add to your collection. Having the right tools on hand makes it easier to stay proactive instead of putting off repairs.

Keep Up with Small Repairs

A squeaky hinge, leaky faucet, or loose railing might feel minor, but delaying small fixes can lead to bigger problems down the road. Regularly walk through your home and take note of things that need attention. Whether it’s patching a bit of drywall or replacing a worn weatherstrip, small repairs not only protect your home but also improve comfort and energy efficiency.

Track Your Home’s Maintenance and Upgrades

Keep a dedicated binder or digital folder to store receipts, warranties, and service records, along with notes on when maintenance was last completed. This makes it easier to budget for future expenses, schedule routine services, and prove care if you ever sell your home.

Final Thoughts

Owning a home is all about consistency. The more proactive you are with maintenance, the fewer surprises you’ll face later. Start small, build good habits, and remember: caring for your home protects both your investment and your peace of mind.

Looking to buy, sell, or invest? As your REALTOR®, I’ll guide you every step of the way. Contact me today to schedule a free consultation and let’s turn your real estate dreams into reality!

For more information, contact:

Susan Moffat, REALTOR® with Century 21 In-Studio Realty Inc., Brokerage
519.377.5154
susan.moffat@c21.ca