💸 Avoid These First-Time Homeowner Spending Mistakes

No one plans to waste money… but it’s surprisingly easy to do once you’ve bought a home. Between the excitement of moving in and the long list of things you think you need, spending can get out of hand quickly.

And remember — unlike renting, homeownership comes with surprise expenses. (Because your AC never asks permission before quitting in the middle of July 🥵). That’s why it’s smart to build up savings and avoid these common spending traps:

🛋️ Wanting the “HGTV After” Overnight

We get it — those makeover shows make you want a brand-new living room yesterday. But here’s the deal: your home doesn’t need to be fully decorated on Day One.

• Live in your space first to see how you actually use it.
• Hold off on big purchases (sectional sofa, dining set, fancy bed) until you know what truly works.
• Take your time filling rooms. Thoughtful buys last longer and feel more “you.”

🛠️ Skipping DIY

Sure, hiring help is convenient… but it adds up fast. Try tackling small things first: mowing the yard, swapping out light fixtures, fixing that leaky faucet. YouTube, home improvement blogs, and local store workshops can be lifesavers. Even small DIY wins can save you hundreds each month.

☕ Old Habits, New Home

Homeownership is a great time to hit reset on your spending habits.

• Daily coffee run? A good coffee maker pays for itself quickly.
• Always had cable? Streaming might suit your style (and your wallet).
• Gym membership gathering dust? Time to reassess.

Little tweaks like these can free up money for the fun stuff.

🛒 Extended Warranties

Appliance shopping? Think twice before tacking on the extended warranty. They don’t always cover what you expect, and often cost more than repairs themselves. Instead:

• Check if your credit card offers free extended warranty coverage.
• Consider a home warranty if you want broader peace of mind.

📑 Insurance Shopping

Don’t just stick with your old renters or auto insurance company. Get quotes from multiple carriers and compare what’s actually covered.
👉 Bonus: bundling home + auto often earns you discounts.

💡 Ignoring Energy Efficiency

Energy leaks = money leaks. An energy audit can show you where your home is wasting power and help cut costs long-term.

🏡 Bottom line: Owning a home comes with plenty of new expenses, but with a little patience and smart planning, you can avoid overspending and feel confident in your investment.

And remember, I’m still here for you — not just when you’re buying or selling, but anytime you’ve got homeowner questions or need a trusted resource.