6 Improvements You Should Make Straight After Buying a Home

Congratulations on buying your very own house! This is an exciting and much-awaited milestone. 

However, you might need to make renovations to turn your house into a home. That means it’s time to put on your DIY hat and transform your digs into a true blue Aussie haven. Don’t know where to start? 

Don’t worry. We’ve got your back covered with these six improvements. Let’s hop right in!

Six Improvements to Consider

1. Create a Practical Outdoor Living Space

Australia is best known for its scenic beauty. So to enjoy the gorgeous sunsets and colourful fauna, you should build a functional all-year outdoor living space. You can do that by adding a deck, pergola, or patio to your house. 

But make sure you create a place you actively like spending time in. That means adapting it to your unique needs — be it a garden retreat for personal use, a vibrant entertainment area for your guests, or a diverse play zone for your children. 

And if you aren’t convinced yet, research indicates a functional green space can increase your property value by up to 30%. So, an outdoor living space is both good for your wallet and health.

Install Solar Panels

Australia receives more than 3,000 hours of sunshine per year. So, if you’re looking to save up on your electricity bills, solar panels are the way to go. They’ll reduce your reliance on unsustainable energy sources and help you earn credit through feed-in tariffs. 

Plus, you won’t be at the whims of the Australian grid when it decides to take a break. 

2.Put in Energy-efficient Appliances

Appliances account for 25% of energy utility in a household. So, reduce your footprint by installing energy-efficient appliances that reduce your electrical consumption. You can also think about ducted heating installation by Alliance to save on heating costs. Consider it a one-off investment you’re set to gain back from in the long run. 

You can make your home more energy-efficient by purchasing high-rated, energy-efficient refrigerators, washing machines, and LED bulbs. 

3. Install Water-efficient Fixtures

While Australia is home to some of the most stunning landscapes (think the Blue Mountains, the Great Barrier Reef, and the Mossman Gorge), it is the driest inhabited continent in the world — with 70% of it being arid or semi-arid. This means the country is prone to droughts and water shortages. 

In fact, according to the NSW government, severe droughts affect some parts of Australia once every four to 38 years. And the effects are only getting worse because of climate change. 

So, to make sure you always have water on hand, you should use water-efficient fixtures like low-flow showerheads, faucets, and dual-flush toilets. They can help you conserve water by up to 35%. 

4.Get a Comprehensive Security System

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Australia has the third-highest burglary rate in the world. This makes it crucial to install a comprehensive security system to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your valuables — especially if you live in far-flung areas.  

A comprehensive security system may include alarms, motion sensors, smart locks, window bolts, and security cameras. But if it isn’t on the cards, you can start by changing your locks when moving in.

5.Make Flooring and Paint Upgrades

If your home’s floor is cupping, crowning, or showing general signs of wear and tear, you should consider getting new flooring. Yes, it can be expensive, but good flooring can make the difference between bugs crawling over your bed and staying outside. 

And if you’re replacing your floors, consider using bamboo or vinyl. They’re more moisture-resistant, less expensive, and easier to maintain than hardwood. 

You may also want to consider a fresh coat of paint to elevate the house style to your liking. This will be especially beneficial if the house you’ve purchased has been around for some time and has outdated decor, such as popcorn ceilings. 

How Much Should You Expect to Spend?

The general rule of thumb is to never spend more than 5–10% of your purchase price on a renovation immediately after you’ve bought your home. 

You should only make the necessary improvements at this point. This translates to no more than $60 to $250 per square foot. 

What Renovations Should You Avoid Straight After Buying a Home?

So those were some renovations you should definitely consider. But what are some projects you should avoid immediately after buying a new home? Let’s find out: 

1. Luxury Fittings

Introducing design elements to your new house is always a good idea, but remember not to overdo it. 

For example, marble tiles, infrared saunas, fancy light fittings, or swimming pools that cost a fortune aren’t worth it. That’s because they require constant maintenance, which can be a big headache for new homeowners considering everything else they have to take care of. 

2. Fully Integrated Heating and Cooling Systems

A split system heating/cooling is preferable over a fully integrated heating and cooling system. 

Why? Because they’re unlikely to provide high returns in the short run and are heavy on the wallet. 

3. Large Scale Upgrades

Splurging on large-scale reconstruction projects, such as renovating your bathrooms and kitchens, is a major no-no. 

If these areas are functional, leave them be. Only upgrade whatever you can’t live without, such as heating/cooling systems. 

Final Words

Now that you’ve moved in, it’s time to enjoy your new home. This includes customising it to your style, improving things as needed, and making the most of what you have (think glorious sunsets, stunning beaches, and hot air balloons). 

And once you’re done, take advantage of your residential and nearby facilities to the fullest!