Your first year as a homeowner

Kelly Annabelle, from McEwan Fraser, explains what you should expect as a new homeowner

Buying your first property is one of life’s biggest milestones. After the excitement of viewings, offers, and paperwork, the moment you finally collect the keys is unforgettable. But while it’s tempting to think the hard work is over, the first year in your new home often comes with a fresh set of surprises, from unexpected admin to hidden costs and ongoing upkeep.

To make the transition smoother, here’s a practical timeline of what you can expect in your first year as a homeowner.

Months 1-2: Settling in & tackling the admin

The first weeks after moving in are busy, and while it’s exciting to get your boxes unpacked, there’s also plenty of paperwork to handle. Key tasks include:

• Setting up or transferring your utility accounts (gas, electricity, broadband, and water).
• Registering for council tax and checking if you qualify for any discounts.
• Updating your address with your bank, insurance providers, workplace, and DVLA.
• Familiarising yourself with your property’s essentials: the boiler, fuse box, and water stopcock.
• Booking a boiler service if one hasn’t been carried out recently.

It’s also a good idea to give the property a deep clean and keep an eye out for any issues that weren’t obvious on the viewing, such as leaks or draughts.

Months 3-4: Spotting snags & building a buffer

Once the dust has settled, little problems may start to reveal themselves, from dripping taps to temperamental radiators. At this stage:

• Deal with minor repairs quickly to stop them turning into bigger jobs.
• Consider setting aside a small emergency fund (around £500 is a good start) for unexpected repairs.

This is all part of learning the quirks of your new home.

Months 5-6: Looking after the outside

As the seasons change, your focus may shift to the exterior. For those with gardens or outdoor space, now’s the time to:

• Clear gutters and drains, tidy fences, and trim back plants.
• Check for roof damage or chimney wear after the winter months.

It’s also a sensible point to review your home insurance. Now that you’ve moved in properly, you’ll know what items you want covered – and whether extra protection like accidental damage or home emergency cover would bring peace of mind.

Months 7-9: Comfort & energy efficiency

By mid-year, most people start thinking about improvements that make life easier (and cheaper). Consider:

• Adding insulation or draft-proofing to cut down on bills.
• Installing a smart thermostat to make your heating more efficient.
• Upgrading older appliances that may be driving up energy costs.

If you’ve moved from a smaller flat to a house, you may notice energy bills are higher than expected. Submitting regular meter readings can help you avoid overpaying on estimates.

Months 10-12: Planning ahead

As you approach the end of your first year, it’s the perfect time to:

• Schedule annual servicing for your boiler, alarm systems, or chimney.
• Create a budget for routine maintenance and improvements in the year ahead.
• Think about cosmetic updates, such as redecorating, updating flooring, or replacing furniture.

The reality of year one

While your mortgage will likely be the largest expense, the truth is that homeownership involves a range of smaller, often unexpected costs. The key is preparation: keep a running list of tasks, put aside money for emergencies, and try to address small problems before they escalate.

The first year of owning a home is a mix of joy, responsibility, and the occasional surprise bill, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Every task you complete, every repair you make, is an investment in your home and your future.

You’ve worked hard to get here. Now it’s time to make your home truly yours.