First-Time Homebuyer Resources

Embarking on the exciting journey of buying your first home? We've got the essentials that every first-time homebuyer should know, from packing to DIY home repair and even home trends.

A  woman painting walls
Photo: supersizer / iStock / Getty Images
A  woman painting walls
Photo: supersizer / iStock / Getty Images
Get Ready for the Big Move
Your boxes are packed and you’ve signed the paperwork for your first home—but how do you efficiently get your belongings from point A to point B?
Moving men wrapping furniture for move.
Jun 17, 2025
Jun 17, 2025
How much do movers cost? The answer varies based on a lot of factors, but we’ve laid them all out for you here. Plan your budget with our cost guide.
Man carrying rug moving out of house
Feb 25, 2025
Feb 25, 2025
If you’re not sure if you want moving insurance, you’re not alone. Most people don’t. This guide helps you learn the reasons you need or don’t need the coverage.
A woman having fun with her dog while packing moving boxes
Feb 20, 2025
Feb 20, 2025
Moving house is one of the most stressful experiences in life. This guide explains how to hire packers for moving to take some of the stress off you.
Woman in her apartment packing carboard boxes with her belongings
Feb 5, 2025
Feb 5, 2025
Making a supply list for moving day? Check out this comprehensive guide of must-have items and equipment for DIY moves and those assisted by movers.
Young couple handle boxes for a move
Jun 17, 2025
Jun 17, 2025
Knowing what not to pack when moving will save you time, money, and a lot of hassle. Our guide will help your move go smoothly.
Couple unpacking boxes in a new home
Aug 17, 2022
Aug 17, 2022
Is packing not your thing? Nonsense. You can pack like a pro and keep moving day chaos at bay with these tips to help you efficiently pack your household goods.
Quick Fixes That Need a Pro’s Touch
Having a pro address any immediate repairs and minor problems can make your new house feel like home in no time.
Drops of condensate and black mold on a window
Oct 31, 2024
Oct 31, 2024
There are many causes of leaky windows. A pro can fix it, but you can help by finding the source before they start on the window leak repair.
dining room in open space interior design
May 23, 2025
May 23, 2025
Whether you want to spruce up a few dents and dings or fix a large surface area, investing in drywall repair costs can return your walls to a smooth, flush look.
Father and daughter arranging utensils in dishwasher
Jan 8, 2025
Jan 8, 2025
An appliance repair takes parts, expertise and time. Use this guide to help you budget for your appliance repair cost.
A mature couple relaxing on their sofa
Mar 10, 2025
Mar 10, 2025
Are your air vents looking dusty? Discover who cleans air ducts and whether this project is one that you can do yourself or if you need to hire a pro.
Electrician checking AC unit
Feb 5, 2025
Feb 5, 2025
If you’re asking yourself, "Who do I call to check my HVAC?" The answer is simple: an HVAC technician. Read more to find out why.
Friends dining on a house patio at night
Jan 18, 2025
Jan 18, 2025
If you need electrical work done, you’ve probably been asking, “How much does an electrician cost?” We’ll break down all the cost factors for you here.
DIY Projects for New Homeowners
As a first-time homebuyer, you can flex your DIY muscles by prioritizing these projects to spruce up your space on a budget.
Boy in the bathroom washing hands
Apr 4, 2025
Apr 4, 2025
Dealing with slow-draining sinks or a full toilet clog? Use this DIY guide on how to clear clogged drains to get your drain working again in no time at all.
Young woman at home relaxing on a sofa
Mar 11, 2025
Mar 11, 2025
Learn how to install an air conditioner filter. You must change the filter regularly to keep your system running smoothly and your indoor air quality high.
woman taking clothes out of dryer
Jan 4, 2024
Jan 4, 2024
You might not think much of lint, but it’s actually a major fire hazard. Running your own dryer and dryer vent inspection can help you spot dangerous buildup.
Family entering through the front door of home
May 3, 2024
May 3, 2024
Not every damaged door needs to be completely replaced. Learn how to fix a broken door, whether it’s been kicked in or dented.
A young woman opening a kitchen cabinet
Nov 16, 2023
Nov 16, 2023
Refacing or remodeling your kitchen cabinets can give a whole new look to one of the most-used rooms in your home. Read on to learn at least 10 different ways to update or upgrade your budget kitchen cabinets without breaking the bank.
Roofer removing old shingles.
May 14, 2025
May 14, 2025
DIYing roof repairs can save you thousands over the life of your roof. Learn how to replace damaged roof shingles to get the job done correctly.
Cleaning Tips for Your New Home
Create a clean and comfortable haven by learning to tackle grime and clean your home efficiently.
A family moves into a house
May 30, 2025
May 30, 2025
Professional cleaning companies offer move-out and move-in services that can cut stress, reduce allergens, and save you time, as well as your security deposit.
A bright living room
May 28, 2025
May 28, 2025
A dirty house can increase your stress levels. This guide explains who to hire to deep clean your house and why hiring someone makes sense.
A woman spraying and cleaning the windows
Jun 20, 2025
Jun 20, 2025
Not sure the benefits of a housekeeper vs a house cleaner? Learn which pro you should hire to help keep your home clean.
Man vacuums a rug while listening to music
Jul 1, 2025
Jul 1, 2025
Cleaning tasks can seem overwhelming. Learn how often you should clean your house to keep it looking its best all year long.
Young woman sorting her wardrobe clothes
Jun 26, 2025
Jun 26, 2025
If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by all of the random things accumulating in your home, you need a decluttering checklist to help you get and stay organized. Quickly declutter every room with this ultimate checklist for decluttering.
Mother vacuum cleaning while carrying toddler son
Jun 26, 2025
Jun 26, 2025
Learn how often you should vacuum your flooring to extend its longevity and reduce the number of contaminants and allergens you’re exposed to.
First Week After Moving In
The first week after moving in can be a whirlwind, but focusing on a few projects at a time can make all the difference. Tackle these projects after you’ve been in your new home for a week.
A couple unpacking boxes in living room at new home
Feb 20, 2025
Feb 20, 2025
You’re excited about moving into a new place but not really feeling the unpacking ahead. Take advantage of these unpacking tips to make the task a breeze.
 A locksmith repairing a door lock
Jan 2, 2025
Jan 2, 2025
Need new locks or locked out? You probably have questions about finding a reliable locksmith. This guide can help you hire a professional you can trust.
home inspector evaluating home exterior
Oct 25, 2023
Oct 25, 2023
When shopping for a home, look beyond the obvious features. A DIY home inspection helps you see the bigger picture and prepare for the pro home inspection.
Family having breakfast in their new home
Jun 18, 2025
Jun 18, 2025
You’ve just moved into a new home and aren’t sure which projects to tackle first or what can wait. Read on for advice on the to-dos you should take on initially.
A family having breakfast together
Nov 21, 2024
Nov 21, 2024
Budgeting for an indoor air quality test can be worth the cost if you are worried about your health or have moved into a new home.
A bright dining room with a wooden table, six gray upholstered chairs, a blue door, and decorative wall art under a black chandelier.
May 19, 2025
May 19, 2025
The cost to paint the interior of a house depends on size, layout, type of surface, and more. Learn what factors can influence your total in this guide.
For Homes That Need a Little TLC
For when you’re not quite move-in ready, prioritize these projects to give your first home your personal touch.
A father and daughter mow their lawn
Apr 1, 2025
Apr 1, 2025
As you ring in the new year, you may wonder: What are the top home improvement ideas of 2025? Read on for a full breakdown of in-demand projects on the horizon.
A bright sitting room with the kitchen in the background
Oct 1, 2024
Oct 1, 2024
Deciding which home improvement projects to prioritize is easier said than done. Luckily, factors like your budget, the time of year, and any safety issues in your home will help you determine which fixer-uppers deserve precedence.
a woman in overalls painting a white wall with green paint and smiling
Feb 25, 2025
Feb 25, 2025
When you’re remodeling your home, you likely want to focus on the best return on investment home improvements. Know what to prioritize and when will get you the best price when it’s time to sell.
A living room in a renovated 18th century barn
Jun 12, 2025
Jun 12, 2025
Knowing how much it costs to renovate a house will help you plan and budget appropriately. Use this guide to get a rough estimate for your project.
Woman remodeling bathroom
Oct 17, 2024
Oct 17, 2024
The words remodel and renovation are often used interchangeably; but, they mean two different things. Use this guide to understand a remodel vs. a renovation.
Renovated dining room with pendant lights and hardwood floors
Sep 25, 2024
Sep 25, 2024
Looking to jump-start an exciting home renovation project? Learn how to renovate a house so you know what to expect.