There’s nothing quite like the thrill of stepping into your very first home, thinking of the endless possibilities that lie ahead. But alongside the excitement comes a checklist you need to tick off and many decisions you probably didn’t anticipate. Whether you’re renting a tiny studio or collecting the keys to a charming fixer-upper, moving into your first home is a major milestone worth celebrating and preparing for.
“Having a space that is completely yours and boasts who you are in every piece of furniture, colour and decorating element, can make you feel truly at home,” comments Bronwyn Ragavan, brand manager for Personal Touch. “And, why not? It’s your space to truly be you, but let’s not forget that is it also your space to fix, maintain and keep clean.”
When it comes to moving into your first home, Ragavan offers 10 tips you need to know:
Before the boxes are even unpacked, make sure that you tackle the admin: update your address with key services, such as your bank, employer, subscriptions, and the post office; any utilities such as internet installation, electricity and water transfer etc. need to be organised beforehand; and don’t forget about looking into and securing insurance. By doing this early on you will be walking into a fully functional home without any wait and fuss.
Even if the previous owners tidied up, a deep clean ensures everything is truly fresh. Wipe down cupboards, sanitise the bathroom and kitchen with Milton Sanitising Spray, clean light fixtures and fans, and steam carpets if needed. Don’t forget your drains. Chemico Drain Cleen is easy to use and ensures that your drains are clean, clog free and smelling fresh.
If you are furnishing from scratch, start with the basics such as a bed, perhaps a kitchen table and chairs and any appliances you might need at the start. Don’t spend time and money on items that you don’t absolutely need when moving in. Rather live in the space for a month or two to see exactly what you need.
Always plan and stick to a budget. Moving can be expensive and when you are caught up in the moment, that R500 sugar bowl may seem like something your home is missing, but honestly is something you can do without.
As this is your first home, chances are that there isn’t enough space to store everything, especially when it comes to groceries and cleaning supplies. Planning your meals for the week and sticking to this list will help you make the most of your space. The same goes for cleaning supplies. Buy only what you need. Washing detergents can be bulky, which is why Personal Touch Washing Powder Sheets is small enough to fit in even the smallest space. This A5, 90g box holds the equivalent of a 2kg washing powder bag and provides an effective and efficient clean to even the dirtiest clothes.
Resist the urge to unpack everything at once. Start with the most-used rooms, such as the kitchen, bathroom, and bedrooms. Take your time with décor and arranging furniture.
Pack a “first night” box with your absolute essentials: toiletries, a change of clothes, basic cleaning supplies, chargers, important documents, and a few snacks or a kettle with tea and coffee. This will save you from having to dig through every box just to find your toothbrush.
If you have moved to a new neighbourhood, take a stroll or drive around. Find your closest grocery store, pharmacy, and coffee shop. Introduce yourself to the neighbours and join local community groups online. Feeling connected to your surroundings makes the transition that much easier.
Now comes the fun part: turning your house into a home. Whether it’s adding a fresh coat of paint, new curtains, or simply lighting your favourite candle, small touches go a long way in making the space feel personal. It doesn’t have to be perfect overnight: home takes time.
Once you’re settled in (or even halfway there), take a moment to celebrate. Order your favourite takeout or throw a casual housewarming. You’ve taken a big step, own it.
Moving into your first home isn’t just about unpacking boxes, it’s about setting the stage for the next chapter of your life. With a little planning and a lot of patience, the process can be far more joyful and rewarding than daunting. So, take a deep breath, take it one room at a time, and enjoy every moment of making your house feel like home.
