By Guest Blogger
Where do you begin? You just bought and moved into your new home - and you may be thinking, now what?! Personalized and thoughtful renovations can transform your new house into a more comfortable and efficient home, making it truly yours. Here are essential renovations to consider right after you move in, ensuring your house meets your needs and preferences. To determine whether you should renovate it yourself or hire a Contractor, check out our breakdown here.
And for a true Step-by-Step Guide on how to decorate your new home, please watch the webinar Karen created in conjunction with Churchill Mortgage about furnishing and decorating your new home, called "I Bought a House ... Now What?!" It is very thorough and will help you make wise design decisions with your new home!
Now onto some renovations and upgrades you may want to consider after purchasing your home - possibly before you move in!
Paint
Sometimes all it takes it is new paint. Refreshing the paint in your new home is an effective way to personalize and freshen your living spaces. When selecting paint, consider the function and feel of each room—opt for durable, washable paints in high-traffic areas like kitchens and hallways and perhaps a softer, matte finish in bedrooms for a cozy atmosphere. Also consider your belongings that will be moved into your new home and make sure your new color coordinates with your belongings. Paint is the easiest and most effective way to transform a space!
Update the Flooring for Style and Comfort
Updating the flooring in your new home adds style and practicality to your living space. Before making any decisions though, it's essential to assess the condition of your current flooring. This evaluation helps you decide whether you need a polish, repair, or replacement. You have multiple flooring options suited to different budgets and aesthetic preferences if you choose to replace them. Hardwood provides timeless elegance, while luxury vinyl or the new laminate offers a cost-effective, extremely durable solution. Tiles are always an ideal choice for moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms. {Pro tip: Grayed wood floors are no longer on-trend, opt for a classic medium brown when investing in new wood flooring to avoid a "time stamp" on your floors, you will love them forever.}
Modernize the Kitchen
Updating your kitchen, the heart of the home, is one of the most essential renovations to consider after moving into a new home. Replacing outdated countertops with modern materials like quartz can instantly elevate the kitchen’s aesthetic and functionality. Similarly, installing new cabinetry can transform the space, providing improved storage solutions and a fresh look. Modern appliances enhance its appeal and offer better energy efficiency. Consider the layout of the kitchen as well; reconfiguring it can improve workflow and make the kitchen more user-friendly. In the kitchen below, we added space by moving the back wall into the room behind the kitchen, and we removed a peninsula and constructed the island, among other updates.
Bathroom Revamps
Addressing necessary repairs, such as fixing leaks and replacing worn fixtures, should be at the top of your priority list. These practical improvements prevent future damage and improve functionality. In contrast, aesthetic enhancements can transform the space significantly. Installing new vanities and modern lighting fixtures updates the look of your bathroom and increases its appeal and usability. Similarly, adding luxury features like heated floors or a marble bench in the shower elevates the comfort level, providing a spa-like experience right at home.
Security Enhancements
Prioritizing safety in your new home is essential, starting with securing entry points such as windows and doors. Upgrading to high-quality, durable windows and door locks can deter potential intruders and provide peace of mind. Installing a comprehensive security system is another crucial step; these systems can include alarms, motion detectors, and surveillance cameras, offering real-time monitoring and alerts to ensure your home remains safe. Further, consider adding privacy fences around your property. These will enhance security while increasing privacy for your family. Features like outdoor lighting can illuminate entry points and deter trespassers after dark. Together, these enhancements form a robust security network that protects your home from various risks.
Energy Efficiency Upgrades
Implementing energy efficiency upgrades will reduce utility bills and minimize environmental impact. Installing smart thermostats is a simple yet effective way to control heating and cooling systems more efficiently. Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances can also lead to significant savings, as these devices consume less power while maintaining optimal performance. Additionally, integrating solar panels into your home energy system can drastically reduce dependence on traditional power sources and offer long-term savings. By focusing on these upgrades, you can enhance the overall energy efficiency of their homes, leading improved living conditions.
Make your Plan
If you plan to start renovating your home right after you purchase your home, it would be better not to bring all your belongings with you. Otherwise, contractors will have to work around all your stuff and try not to damage it. Thus, we suggest renting storage in the area and keeping your belongings there before moving in completely. However, if you’ve already settled into your new home and are starting the renovations after a few months, you’ll have no choice but to make room for the contractors and new products being installed. In this case, you can contact residential movers in Tennessee to help pack your bulky items and transport them off the premises to another location. It is also important to consider where and how you will live during some of these renovations, and what to do with your beloved pets so that they stay safe and happy with workers in and out of your home. The team at Home by Hattan is happy to work through these scenarios with you, providing solutions and support every step of the way.
Are you ready to consider these renovations?
There are several essential renovations to consider that can transform your new house into a relaxing and personalized space. From updating the kitchen and bathrooms to enhancing energy efficiency and security, each improvement contributes to a more comfortable and functional living space. Careful planning and efficient execution of these renovations are essential to maximizing their benefits without unnecessary stress. If this has not convinced you to renovate, review the true cost of not renovating.
Home by Hattan can help you with your home renovations needs and wants. We are your design and build team to make your vision turn to reality, personalizing your space to help you live beautifully at home! LET'S DO THIS!
Trustworthy | Thoughtful | Tailored
Mark & Karen Hattan
Founders, Home by Hattan Design + Build
Beautifully combining luxury and livability,
we create homes that elevate the way you live. Homes that feel inviting and special,
bringing a smile to your heart and
connection with those who mean the most.
Because HOME is important, and so are the people who live there.
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