What to buy when moving into a new home

Key Takeaways

• Kettle, toaster, microwave
• Washing machine, tumble dryer
• Fridge/freezer or fridge-freezer
• Dishwasher
• Pots, pans, dinnerware, utensils
• Cleaning supplies (washing up liquid, surface spray, dishwasher tablets)

• Sofa, footstool, accent chair
• Rug, curtains or blinds
• Coffee table, side/console table
• Pictures, ornaments, plants
• Bookshelf, lampshade, lighting
• Cushions, throws
• TV and other devices, TV stand or bracket

• Bed and mattress
• Duvet, sheets, pillows
• Curtains or blinds
• Bedside tables, lamps
• Storage, mirror

• Soap, towels, bath mat
• Toilet roll and holder
• Storage for toiletries
• Shower curtain, cleaning products

• Home safety items (insurance, first aid kit, fire extinguisher, smoke alarm)
• Miscellaneous items (stationery, vacuum cleaner, tools, drill)

Before you commit to spending any money, create a list of all the things you need. This could range from large pieces of furniture such as sofas and beds, to smaller things such as cleaning supplies. It's a good idea to work out a budget so that you have an idea of the overall cost and what's within your reach.

Living room essentials

Before you start decorating your living room, decide what style you want to go for. New build homes are usually designed as a blank canvas, which means it’s easy to make your mark.

For the living room, you may want to consider these essential buys:

• 2-3 seater sofa
• An armchair
• Coffee table
• Table lamps or floor lamps
• Light-shades
• Curtains or blinds

If you're looking for interior design inspiration, there are plenty of blogs that can give you helpful tips and tricks on how to buy for your perfect home.

Items for the kitchen/dining area

To make your new kitchen and dining area workable, buy the everyday essentials. If you have a large kitchen/dining area, make the most of this space by getting a large enough table to fit the whole family. This will be something to consider when shopping.

These are the essentials for your kitchen, the heart of your home:

• Microwave
• Kettle
• Toaster
• Blender
• Pots, pans and oven trays
• Mugs, glasses, cutlery & utensils
• Dinner plates, serving plates & bowls
• Cleaning supplies
• Rubbish bin & bin bags
• Vacuum cleaner
• Dining table & chairs
• Curtains and/or blinds

Bedroom essentials

The bedroom has many must-have buys, all of which will help to make it a cosy space. Take some time to work out what style you'd like and what furnishings will compliment each other. It may be useful to create a Pinterest board with all of your favourite pieces so you have an idea of what to buy.

Consider these essential buys when shopping for your bedroom:

• Single or double bed
• Bunkbeds for children
• Chest of drawers
• Wardrobe - or perhaps you opt for fitted wardrobes for extra storage space
• Bedside tables
• Lamps
• Duvet and pillows
• Curtains and/or blinds

What you'll need for the bathroom

To ensure that your mornings and evenings run as smooth as possible, stock up your bathroom with all of your must-have items.

For example, you may need:

• Cleaning supplies
• Bath mat
• Bath towels
• Hand towels
• Soap
• Toilet roll & holder
• Reed diffuser
• Shower curtain (optional)

Things for the garden

If you're lucky enough to be moving home in the summer, it may be worth buying some outdoor items. These could range from furniture to gardening supplies:

• Lawn mower
• Garden shears
• Plants & pots
• Garden table & chairs
• BBQ
• Shed

Other essential buys when moving home

You may have the luxury of having a hidden away utility room that can house all of your miscellaneous items as well as big appliances. Use this space to keep some of these items:

• Decorating paint
• Paint brushes
• First-aid kit
• Batteries
• Tool kit
• Extra light bulbs
• Washing machine
• Tumble dryer

Discover a David Wilson development near you and find your dream home today.