The following content is created in consultation with Kenmore. It does not reflect the work or opinions of NBC Chicago’s editorial staff. To learn more about Kenmore, visit Kenmore.com.
Congratulations—you signed the papers, loaded up the moving van, and are now proud parents of your very first home! Whether you struggle to change a light bulb or are ready to star in your own home improvement show, moving into a first home is an exciting experience, with lots of boxes, rolls of duct tape, and opportunities to learn. As you embark on this adventure, Kenmore has some tips to make the whole process a little less daunting.
Get a Lay of the Land
When looking at open houses, you were most likely focused on the fun stuff—the spacious floor plan, the backyard patio just made to entertain. But now that you’re moving in, it’s important to go under the surface to get the full view of your new home. Venture into the boiler room and start with the usual inspections—HVAC and humidifier—to figure out if anything needs to be repaired and/or replaced. It’s better to get things fixed now, rather than later. And most importantly, learn where your utility shutoff valves are; knowing how to turn off gas and water can be vital in emergencies.
A Clean Start
Clean house, full hearts, can’t lose (that’s how the saying goes, right?) For a truly fresh start, hire a professional cleaning service—you’ll sleep better knowing every square inch has had a thorough, deep clean. This goes for exterminator services as well. You don’t want your housewarming guest list to include unwelcome bugs and roaches, so investing in pest control takes care of that issue. And as for your day-to-day life, which can get messy especially as you move in, invest in a quality vacuum cleaner. Kenmore offers innovative airflow technology and convenient portability with their award-winning floor care products.
Don’t be afraid to DIY
Being a homeowner doesn’t just mean buying tools and mowing lawns! DIY projects can help you personalize your living space and give your house a homier feel. Of course, there are some things that should be left to the professionals (plumbing work, for instance), but for the most part, there are many ways to roll up your sleeves and show off your creativity—whether it’s painting the walls in a new color or building your own bookshelves. This is one of the many fun parts about being a homeowner.
Time for an Upgrade
Moving to a new home is a step up; why not upgrade your appliances too? With Kenmore’s Smart Appliances, you can connect your appliances to your smartphone and Amazon Alexa. Tell your Kenmore French Door Smart Refrigerator (with its spacious design and bright, modern interior) to crank out extra ice before a big party. Time your Elite Smart Front-Load Washer (with king-size capacity and personalized wash cycles) to finish a load of laundry right as you come home. And adjust your home’s temperature while you’re on vacation with a Smart Room Air Conditioner (which also has a sleek, touch-responsive control panel). It’s as easy as checking Facebook! Effortlessly simple yet thoughtfully energy efficient—with over 250 EnergyStar products, Kenmore is good for the planet, and your wallet. It’ll be hard to complain about doing chores now.
Raise the Roof
For new homeowners, the to-do list may seem endless. But it’s important to stop and celebrate this milestone. Whether you’re fresh out of school or newly married, moving into a new place is a new start, so enjoy it, with Kenmore’s recipe ideas and tips to entertain guests. Take the stress out of filling your empty house, with Kenmore’s guides to buying the right appliances. And spend less time researching products and shopping—and more time celebrating—with the convenience of buying Kenmore appliances right on Amazon. Get the sleek Stainless Steel Gas Grill just in time for your housewarming party.
Get a Big-Kid Toolbox
Even if you’re no handyman, keeping a toolbox is a must for every homeowner. If you’ve had the miscellaneous screwdriver or hammer in the past, now is finally the time to go out and complete your set. A well-stocked toolbox should include these essentials, just to name a few: a tape measure, a full screwdriver set (with a range of flat-head and Phillips-head screwdrivers in different sizes), adjustable pliers, level (perfect for avoiding crookedly-hung photos), utility knife, and flashlight.
About Kenmore
As a new homeowner, you’re bound to have questions—Kenmore has the answers. With over 100 years in the appliance industry, Kenmore is the brand Americans know and trust, now available at Sears and Amazon. Buying an appliance from Kenmore isn’t just a one and done deal. With advice on everything from choosing the right product to maintaining it for years to come, Kenmore is with you every step of the way, start to finish. Spend less time on household chores and live more, with Kenmore’s high-quality, state-of-the-art appliances, including innovative Smart Appliances and efficient EnergyStar products. With deliberate designs and user-friendly functionality, let Kenmore help you turn your house into a home
