Congratulations! You’ve purchased your first home. Now it’s time to pull together a list of professionals you can rely on when something needs fixing or goes wrong in your new digs. Below is a list of five professionals you need as a first time homebuyer.
To say my husband and I were fish out of water when we moved out of NYC and into our first house in Connecticut is an understatement. We had lived apartment life for nearly 15 years, and even though we owned in the city, we were not prepared for the level of responsibility that comes with owning a house.
Right off the bat we realized that there are some major differences between owning an apartment in a Brooklyn high-rise and owning a 1920’s cottage on two acres of land in Connecticut. This is why you need to have a list of professionals you can rely on.
Here’s a list of five professionals you should have in your phone:
- Handyman or contractor
- Pest control professional
- Housekeeper
- Lawn care company
- Mosquito and tick control professional
Handyman/contractor
First, and most importantly, there isn’t a Super or Property Manager to call when you need something fixed. Unless you or your partner is handy, which my husband and I are not, it’s a good idea to get Handyman or Contractor recommendations from friends and neighbors.
Going into purchasing our first home in Connecticut we knew there were going to be some things that needed to be updated. We naively thought that HGTV had prepared us for these DIY projects… we were completely wrong (that’s a story for another day). Fortunately a family member recommended a great contractor who was able to knock out our wishlist in a matter of days; and we were able to enjoy our lovely, new space without any headache… or missing limbs (seriously).
TIP: I’m a big fan of Houzz to find reliable professionals.
Pest control professional
If you’re a New Yorker (or general city-dweller), you’ve met your fair share of pizza rats. But as fearless as you think you are… there’s nothing like the pitter patter of Stuart Little paws running through your ceiling vents to freakšyoušoutš. Which is why I highly recommend you find yourself a reliable pest control professional.
Also, keep in mind that pest control is not just to get rid of issues you currently have; they prevent future pests from entering your home. And, not to add to the grossness of this, but pests are not only a nuisance (and yucky), they can also cause major damage to your new home.
Housekeeper
Cleaning a 3,000 square foot house is a two-day affair. Don’t get me wrong, I find myself getting into cleaning mode every now and then… but… damn… it’s exhausting. Finding a reliable house keeper or cleaning professional is key.
Lawn care company
Unless you have a .12 acre plot of land, I highly recommend looking into local lawn care professionals to cut your lawn. You will be astonished at how quickly grass can grow during Connecticut summer months. Within 7 days, you’ll have an all out jungle in your yard.
TIP: Often times when you use the same lawn care professional as your neighbors you’ll be able to get a good deal.
Mosquito and tick control professional
Why did you move to the suburbs? Most likely it was to be able to enjoy outdoor space. Unfortunately, you won’t have a relaxing summer of BBQ’s and cornhole if you’re swatting away mosquitos all day long. And, let’s be real, citronella candles do jack.
One of the first things you’re going to want to do in the early Spring is call around to local mosquito and tick control companies. Don’t worry, there are tons of all natural sprays that work perfectly and are safe for pets and children.
Want more tips on real estate and home buying in Connecticut? Check out our Real Estate 101 posts here.
++++
