Is this your first time owning a home? Congratulations. It's an adventure, as our REALTORS® like to explain to our clients. As you settle into the house you chose from Beavercreek homes for sale, you're probably aware there's going to be some maintenance that is all part of home ownership. It's best to be prepared for all the tasks at hand, which will mean buying some gear to get you going.

Let's have a look at some of those chores you're likely to be tackling.

1. Get ready for lawn maintenance.
   You sure don't want your new neighbors to be scowling at a neglected yard, so one of the first purchases you'll need to make, if you don't already own one, is a lawnmower. You won't have to mow much longer as the weather gets colder, but you'll sure need it next spring. These days there are alternatives to the old reliable gas mower. Electric mowers require plugging in, while battery-operated mowers require charging. Which is best? Gas-powered mowers are durable and last a long time compared to electric models, but they are heavy and require some maintenance — like adding oil for lubrication. Make sure you can lift that heavy lawnmower to turn it over and do the maintenance.
   
   Oh, and you'll also need something to edge the grass along the curb, such as a string trimmer or manual edger.
   
   
2. Deep clean your home before you move in.
   Do it yourself or hire it done, but plan on it taking about eight hours. You want your home squeaky clean before you move in. That way, you'll have some time to relax after the move is done.
   
   
3. Acquire a long garden hose.
   You're going to need that 100-foot garden hose for many jobs. No doubt you'll want to plant some flowers, shrubs, and even trees to beautify the yard. Even if you have an irrigation system, the garden hose will be needed for spot watering. It's also handy for washing away messes on the sidewalk or curb, cleaning up the porch and/or front door, or hosing off the exterior of the home should it need it.
   
   
4. Change your air filter.
   This action, performed on a regular basis, will go far to extend the life of your HVAC system. Use a good quality air filter, and though it costs more than the cheap model, you probably won't have to change it more than every three months. Plus, it will help clean your home's indoor air. Flimsy fiberglass filters should be changed monthly. It's a good idea to have a supply of air filters, so you always have one ready to change.
   
   
5. Do you need a generator?
   This is a piece of equipment more homeowners are acquiring, so they can ensure that their homes stay powered during power outages from storms. You can acquire, at some expense, the type of generator that is wired into the mainframe of your home, or a relatively inexpensive portable generator that can run your fridge, the lights, and other essential systems in your home for 15 hours or so. You'll have to keep gas on hand to run the generator.
   
   
6. Check safety devices; replace them as needed.
   Do this right away. Test the smoke and carbon monoxide monitors and make sure they work before you move in. Replace alarms, wiring, or batteries as needed. Change the locks; install security systems.

New homeowners have a steep learning curve when it comes to maintenance, but you can ask your real estate agent for advice. Contact Wright-Patt Realty today.