Becoming a homeowner is an exciting milestone, but the experience also comes with its fair share of surprises. Five months into owning my first house, I’ve learned both the fun and frustrations of homeownership – lessons no one prepared me for. Whether you’re planning to buy your first home within the next year or just curious about what to expect, here’s a breakdown of what I’ve discovered so far, along with practical advice for new homeowners.
Owning a Home is a Lot of Work
No one prepared me for just how much effort goes into maintaining a house. Whether your home is move-in ready or needs renovations, there’s always something to clean, fix, or improve. My house was mostly move-in ready, but I decided to personalize it with updates and small renovations. From working with contractors to dealing with backordered materials, updates take time and patience. Be ready to commit hours to managing projects and dealing with unexpected delays.
It’s More Expensive Than You Think
Owning a home comes with many hidden costs. Beyond the initial purchase, you’ll need to budget for furniture, utilities, landscaping, and home improvements. Even small updates like replacing a lamp or painting a room can quickly add up. Contractors, shipping fees, and unexpected repairs can stretch your budget, so I recommend setting aside an emergency fund specifically for home expenses. Plan for the unexpected because there’s always something that needs fixing.
Things Break Unexpectedly
One of the biggest surprises of homeownership is how frequently things break. For example, my floors were recently damaged by water, even though the house was newly flipped. Small issues like shower doors sticking or light fixtures falling out are also common. The bottom line? Things will go wrong, and you’ll be responsible for fixing them. Make sure you have a trusted contractor or repair service on standby to tackle unexpected problems.
Relying on Others Can Be Frustrating
If you’re like me and want to handle as much as possible yourself, be prepared to face realities. Some projects—whether it’s fixing a water heater or repairing electrical work—require professional help. While it’s empowering to learn how to do basic tasks, like installing fixtures or minor repairs, there’s no substitute for expertise. The more you educate yourself, the less reliant you’ll be on outside help (and the more money you can save). Trial and error, YouTube tutorials, and advice from experienced homeowners go a long way.
Get the Right Home Insurance
Your home insurance could make or break your financial security. I learned this the hard way when a flood damaged my flooring. Because floods weren’t “common” in my area, I didn’t buy additional flood insurance—and my standard policy didn’t cover the damage. Take your time to research insurance policies, ask plenty of questions, and ensure you’re fully covered for your specific area and circumstances. Be prepared to push back on insurance claims if necessary; many companies will try to avoid paying if they can.
There’s a Steep Learning Curve
For example, I didn’t know how to handle basic garden care or small maintenance tasks when I first moved in. It’s OK to feel clueless at first—what matters is your willingness to learn. Over time, you’ll gain confidence and knowledge about managing your home, so arm yourself with resources, ask questions, and be patient with yourself.
Contractors Take Time
Working with contractors can be a test of patience. If you’re planning to hire one for home improvements, know that projects typically take longer than expected. Whether it’s custom cabinetry, a new backsplash, or flooring repairs, delays happen. Vet your contractors carefully, do your research, and be prepared for jobs to take weeks instead of days. Clear communication goes a long way, but flexibility is key.
Your Home Will Always Feel Like a Work in Progress
Even when everything looks great on the outside, you’ll always spot improvements you want inside. It might feel like your home is never “done,” and that’s OK—homeownership is a long-term project. While it’s rewarding to put your personal touch on your space, remember to enjoy the process and find contentment with how your home is right now.
Be Sure Before Committing
Make sure you’re truly happy with your home before committing to buy. While I love my house overall, there are small things I would’ve reconsidered—like certain design choices I initially overlooked. Carefully inspect the home and think about its condition, layout, and features. If renovations are required, factor those into your budget and timeline. Confidence and peace of mind before purchasing are crucial.
Hire a Reliable Home Inspector
A great home inspector can save you future headaches. While my inspector helped identify several areas for improvement, some repairs were done cheaply and didn’t hold up. I recommend bringing along another trusted person, like a family member or friend, for a second opinion. An experienced eye could catch issues inspectors might miss, ultimately protecting your investment.
Owning Alone is Challenging
Homeownership without a partner is rewarding yet challenging. While I have a roommate, it’s still my responsibility as the first-time homeowner to manage the finances, repairs, and upkeep. If you’re entering this alone, prepare for added stress—but also take pride in your independence. Homeownership is a major accomplishment, and doing it solo builds tons of confidence and skills.
Seek Advice from Experienced Homeowners
Reach out to friends, family, or neighbors who’ve been through this before. They may share tips or lessons you wouldn’t think of on your own. For instance, a friend recently told me about the importance of adding a smoke detector to the attic—a simple yet crucial step I wouldn’t have considered otherwise. Never hesitate to ask for advice, as it could save you time, money, and hassle in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Homeownership is a mix of hard work, learning, and immense satisfaction. While it comes with its fair share of unexpected hurdles, the rewards far outweigh the challenges. Stay informed, budget wisely, and be open to learning—and you’ll find that your homeownership experience is one of the most rewarding journeys you’ll take. Be proud of your efforts and enjoy creating a home you love!
