{"id":7225,"date":"2021-03-02T09:00:00","date_gmt":"2021-03-02T16:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/?p=7225"},"modified":"2024-01-29T17:25:17","modified_gmt":"2024-01-30T00:25:17","slug":"new-homeowners-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/new-homeowners-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"A First-Time Homeowners Guide on Everything You Should Know"},"content":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<html><body><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Moving into a new house, whether you&rsquo;re a first-time homeowner, downsizing, or remodeling, is an exhilarating yet daunting experience, and you might be filled with questions.<\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> What should be on your moving day to-do list? What basic repairs should you be prepared to handle in your new home?&nbsp;<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/25-up-and-coming-cities-in-america\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">new homeowner<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> guide offers 16 practical tips for locating essential systems and performing routine maintenance. It&rsquo;s tailored to help you stay organized, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/things-to-buy-for-a-new-house-new-home-checklist-for-first-time-homebuyers\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ease<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> your moving process, and equip you with the knowledge needed for a smooth transition.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<!--more-->\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For now, we want to lend a neighborly hand to all those new homeowners and help them learn everything they need to know about their new homes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"#where\">Things Every Homeowner Should Know Where to Find<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"#how\">Things Every Homeowner Should Know How to Do<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"#facts\">Fun Facts Most Homeowners Don&rsquo;t Know About Their House<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Related: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/most-neighborly-cities-america\/\">The 25 Most Neighborly Cities in America<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"8-things-every-homeowner-should-know-where-to-find-in-their-new-house\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">8 Things Every Homeowner Should Know Where to Find in Their New House<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Knowing where these items are located in your home is crucial. Whether you do it during your home inspection or on moving day, make a list of where these important things are located in your home so you can find them when you need them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"1-smoke-detectors-and-carbon-monoxide-detectors\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Detectors<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img  decoding=\"async\"  width=\"1789\"  height=\"521\"  src=\"data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAEAAAABAQMAAAAl21bKAAAAA1BMVEUAAP+KeNJXAAAAAXRSTlMAQObYZgAAAAlwSFlzAAAOxAAADsQBlSsOGwAAAApJREFUCNdjYAAAAAIAAeIhvDMAAAAASUVORK5CYII=\"  alt=\"Installing Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors\"  class=\"wp-image-7234 pk-lazyload\"  data-pk-sizes=\"auto\"  data-ls-sizes=\"(max-width: 1789px) 100vw, 1789px\"  data-pk-src=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/08-Smoke-Detector.png\"  data-pk-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/08-Smoke-Detector.png 1789w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/08-Smoke-Detector-300x87.png 300w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/08-Smoke-Detector-1024x298.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/08-Smoke-Detector-768x224.png 768w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/08-Smoke-Detector-1536x447.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/08-Smoke-Detector-380x111.png 380w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/08-Smoke-Detector-550x160.png 550w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/08-Smoke-Detector-800x233.png 800w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/08-Smoke-Detector-1160x338.png 1160w\" ><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These devices alert you to fire or gas leaks. It&rsquo;s crucial that you test them to ensure they are <a href=\"https:\/\/brinkshome.com\/smartcenter\/how-to-test-your-smoke-and-carbon-monoxide-detectors\" target=\"_blank\">in working order<\/a> when you locate them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Where to find them:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A smoke detector is usually <strong>installed on ceilings or walls<\/strong> near bedrooms or the living room. You might <a href=\"https:\/\/youtube.com\/shorts\/ZhcnI6Id6ms?feature=shared\" target=\"_blank\">need a ladder or a broom<\/a> handle to reach and test them, especially if they are placed high up.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A carbon monoxide detector <a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/indoor-air-quality-iaq\/where-should-i-place-carbon-monoxide-detector\" target=\"_blank\">should be placed<\/a> around 5 feet from the floor, on a wall in places like your bedroom.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"2-main-water-shut-off-valve\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Main Water Shut-Off Valve<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These valves <strong>control your home&rsquo;s entire water supply<\/strong>. It&rsquo;s important to know its location for quick access in case of leaks or when doing major plumbing work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Where to find it:<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Look in the basement, utility area, or outside near the foundation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img  decoding=\"async\"  width=\"1789\"  height=\"520\"  src=\"data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAEAAAABAQMAAAAl21bKAAAAA1BMVEUAAP+KeNJXAAAAAXRSTlMAQObYZgAAAAlwSFlzAAAOxAAADsQBlSsOGwAAAApJREFUCNdjYAAAAAIAAeIhvDMAAAAASUVORK5CYII=\"  alt=\"Things Every Homeowner Should Know Where to Find\"  class=\"wp-image-7227 pk-lazyload\"  data-pk-sizes=\"auto\"  data-ls-sizes=\"(max-width: 1789px) 100vw, 1789px\"  data-pk-src=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/01-Water-Shut-Off.png\"  data-pk-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/01-Water-Shut-Off.png 1789w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/01-Water-Shut-Off-300x87.png 300w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/01-Water-Shut-Off-1024x298.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/01-Water-Shut-Off-768x223.png 768w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/01-Water-Shut-Off-1536x446.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/01-Water-Shut-Off-380x110.png 380w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/01-Water-Shut-Off-550x160.png 550w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/01-Water-Shut-Off-800x233.png 800w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/01-Water-Shut-Off-1160x337.png 1160w\" ><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the event of a leaking appliance, knowing where your water shut-offs are is critical in <strong>preventing expensive water damage. <\/strong>Note: Each water source in your home (toilets, sinks, washers, etc.) should have its own shut-off valve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"3-electrical-circuit-breaker-box\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Electrical Circuit Breaker Box<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your circuit breaker <strong>controls electricity flow<\/strong> to different areas of your home or appliances.<br><br><strong>Where to find it:&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Check the basement, garage, or utility closet for <strong>a metal box with switches<\/strong>.<br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><img  decoding=\"async\"  src=\"data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAEAAAABAQMAAAAl21bKAAAAA1BMVEUAAP+KeNJXAAAAAXRSTlMAQObYZgAAAAlwSFlzAAAOxAAADsQBlSsOGwAAAApJREFUCNdjYAAAAAIAAeIhvDMAAAAASUVORK5CYII=\"  style=\"width: 1333px;\"  class=\" pk-lazyload\"  data-pk-sizes=\"auto\"  data-pk-src=\"https:\/\/lh7-us.googleusercontent.com\/jrbdENW4cEBmEWXI9HaY9F5Js72Lk63voktnf1AJc6p7vMMZvn2Y8nPJb0SvdB1IG0zNISenolHXq4o5Sbk7uKkStbz1AhcLZitc_LGI71xwO7JyybW7GgU_Wz4LPVIbNml6CIqydI42aBhYSGxJRwI\" ><br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<html><body><div id=\"in_post\">\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/host\" onclick=\"rudderanalytics.track('press editorial cta button', {location: 'first in post', version: '2.0'}, () =&gt; { console.log('track call'); });\">\r\n  <div class=\"first-in-post-cta\">\r\n    <header>\r\n      <h2 id=\"can-we-pay-you-to-store-vehicles\">Can we pay you to store vehicles?<\/h2>\r\n    <\/header>\r\n    <section>\r\n      <div class=\"service-option\">\r\n        <div class=\"service-option-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"60\" height=\"60\" viewbox=\"0 0 60 60\" fill=\"none\">\r\n            <path d=\"M26.7552 20.0573C26.2911 20.9853 26.2499 22.3578 26.2499 24.375H33.7499C33.7499 22.3577 33.7088 20.9853 33.2448 20.0573C33.0557 19.6792 32.8 19.3973 32.3888 19.1841C31.9442 18.9535 31.2108 18.75 30 18.75C28.7892 18.75 28.0558 18.9535 27.6112 19.1841C27.2 19.3973 26.9442 19.6792 26.7552 20.0573Z\" fill=\"#005EB8\"><\/path>\r\n            <path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M28.0777 4.32887C29.3195 3.87732 30.6805 3.87732 31.9223 4.32887L48.7973 10.4652C51.0173 11.2725 52.5 13.3777 52.5 15.7462V33.1425C52.5 33.7407 52.4058 34.3605 52.1888 34.9629C47.861 46.9738 35.9939 53.5676 32.1164 55.464C30.7986 56.1086 29.2843 56.1505 27.9278 55.5549C23.9729 53.8185 12.0728 47.6941 7.77513 34.8948C7.58399 34.3255 7.5 33.7394 7.5 33.1762V15.7481C7.5 13.3807 8.98165 11.2729 11.2027 10.4652L28.0777 4.32887ZM22.4998 24.1662L22.4999 24.375C20.4289 24.375 18.75 26.054 18.75 28.125V35.625C18.75 37.6961 20.4289 39.375 22.5 39.375H37.5C39.5711 39.375 41.25 37.6961 41.25 35.625V28.125C41.25 26.0539 39.5711 24.375 37.5 24.375L37.5 24.166C37.5016 22.4546 37.5037 20.19 36.5989 18.3802C36.0848 17.352 35.2859 16.4621 34.115 15.855C32.9776 15.2652 31.6017 15 30 15C28.3983 15 27.0224 15.2652 25.885 15.855C24.7141 16.4621 23.9152 17.352 23.4011 18.3802C22.4961 20.1901 22.4982 22.4547 22.4998 24.1662Z\" fill=\"#005EB8\"><\/path>\r\n          <\/svg><\/div>\r\n        <h3 id=\"list-your-unused-space\">List your unused space<\/h3>\r\n        <p>People are earning $1,000s per year from their garages and outdoor space.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"service-option\">\r\n        <div class=\"service-option-icon\">\r\n          <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"60\" height=\"60\" viewbox=\"0 0 60 60\" fill=\"none\">\r\n            <path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M13.125 9.375C11.0539 9.375 9.375 11.0539 9.375 13.125V46.875C9.375 48.9461 11.0539 50.625 13.125 50.625H46.875C48.9461 50.625 50.625 48.9461 50.625 46.875V13.125C50.625 11.0539 48.9461 9.375 46.875 9.375H13.125ZM28.125 16.875C28.125 15.8395 28.9645 15 30 15C31.0355 15 31.875 15.8395 31.875 16.875V20.625H35.625C36.6605 20.625 37.5 21.4645 37.5 22.5C37.5 23.5355 36.6605 24.375 35.625 24.375H26.25C25.2145 24.375 24.375 25.2145 24.375 26.25C24.375 27.2855 25.2145 28.125 26.25 28.125H33.75C36.8566 28.125 39.375 30.6434 39.375 33.75C39.375 36.8566 36.8566 39.375 33.75 39.375H31.875V43.125C31.875 44.1605 31.0355 45 30 45C28.9645 45 28.125 44.1605 28.125 43.125V39.375H22.5C21.4645 39.375 20.625 38.5355 20.625 37.5C20.625 36.4645 21.4645 35.625 22.5 35.625H33.75C34.7855 35.625 35.625 34.7855 35.625 33.75C35.625 32.7145 34.7855 31.875 33.75 31.875H26.25C23.1434 31.875 20.625 29.3566 20.625 26.25C20.625 23.1434 23.1434 20.625 26.25 20.625H28.125V16.875Z\" fill=\"#005EB8\"><\/path>\r\n          <\/svg>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <h3 id=\"approve-your-renters\">Approve your renters<\/h3>\r\n        <p>You're in control. Approve who rents and the hours of access.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"service-option\">\r\n        <div class=\"service-option-icon\">\r\n          <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"60\" height=\"60\" viewbox=\"0 0 60 60\" fill=\"none\">\r\n            <path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M31.2776 51.9974L31.7666 51.5417C32.0789 51.2503 32.527 50.8317 33.0706 50.3224C34.1576 49.3041 35.6276 47.9224 37.158 46.4698C40.1682 43.6127 43.5576 40.3461 44.596 39.1282C46.7163 36.6414 48.1719 33.6468 48.8127 30.4251C49.5529 26.704 49.173 22.847 47.7211 19.3418C46.2692 15.8366 43.8105 12.8407 40.6559 10.7329C37.5015 8.62514 33.7942 7.5 30.0001 7.5C26.2061 7.5 22.4973 8.62504 19.3428 10.7329C16.1882 12.8407 13.7295 15.8366 12.2776 19.3418C10.8257 22.847 10.4458 26.704 11.186 30.4251C11.8268 33.6468 13.2824 36.6414 15.4027 39.1282C16.4411 40.3462 19.831 43.6128 22.8415 46.4698C24.3721 47.9224 25.8422 49.3042 26.9294 50.3225C27.4731 50.8318 27.9212 51.2504 28.2336 51.5418L28.723 51.9979C29.4428 52.6672 30.5579 52.6668 31.2776 51.9974ZM28.723 51.9979C28.723 51.9979 28.7232 51.998 30.0001 50.625L28.723 51.9979ZM30.0001 50.625L31.2776 51.9974C31.2776 51.9974 31.2771 51.9979 30.0001 50.625ZM30 32.8125C33.6243 32.8125 36.5625 29.8744 36.5625 26.25C36.5625 22.6256 33.6243 19.6875 30 19.6875C26.3756 19.6875 23.4375 22.6256 23.4375 26.25C23.4375 29.8744 26.3756 32.8125 30 32.8125Z\" fill=\"#005EB8\"><\/path>\r\n          <\/svg>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <h3 id=\"get-paid-monthly\">Get paid monthly<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Sit back and collect automatic payments each month.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/section>\r\n    <footer>\r\n      <button>Learn more about hosting <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\">\r\n          <path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M18.8304 5.17619L4.55227 11.6663H11.1779C11.8199 11.6663 12.3404 12.1867 12.3404 12.8288V19.4543L18.8304 5.17619ZM19.029 3.43822C20.0069 2.99374 21.0129 3.9997 20.5684 4.97757L13.0612 21.4935C12.5438 22.6316 10.8404 22.2627 10.8404 21.0124V13.1663H2.99417C1.74398 13.1663 1.37497 11.4628 2.51312 10.9455L19.029 3.43822Z\" fill=\"#EFF5F8\"><\/path>\r\n        <\/svg><\/button>\r\n    <\/footer>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n<\/a>\n  <\/div><\/body><\/html><h3 id=\"4-gas-shut-off-valve\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Gas Shut-Off Valve<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The gas <strong>valve <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/article\/how-to-locate-your-gas-shutoff-valve-and-water-shutoff-valve\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>shuts off the gas supply<\/strong><\/a> to your home in emergencies. Your home&rsquo;s gas system is typically equipped with <strong>two kinds of gas shutoff valves<\/strong>: the main shutoff valves, which control the overall flow of gas to your entire house, and individual shutoff valves for controlling gas flow to specific appliances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Where to find it:&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The main shutoff valve is usually located <strong>near the gas meter<\/strong> outside your home, and individual valves are located behind each gas appliance.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><img  decoding=\"async\"  style=\"width: 1333px;\"  src=\"data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAEAAAABAQMAAAAl21bKAAAAA1BMVEUAAP+KeNJXAAAAAXRSTlMAQObYZgAAAAlwSFlzAAAOxAAADsQBlSsOGwAAAApJREFUCNdjYAAAAAIAAeIhvDMAAAAASUVORK5CYII=\"  class=\" pk-lazyload\"  data-pk-sizes=\"auto\"  data-pk-src=\"https:\/\/lh7-us.googleusercontent.com\/xx7K1kmxZLCmt885pf5wF-Bcx0f5g217WMQhMzX49qZktJ5LJS4Z9TaBagNxs6UwYXRAsi23CopAHFTm5mIzvgPNe3Vx75UI_FjhDFAsO939nGDcY8uz41Q2pjfomorKWq9saDKmyDnnemtvszpcSSM\" ><br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"5-hvac-system\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. HVAC System&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">HVAC systems control your home&rsquo;s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. <strong>Key components<\/strong> include:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The furnace or heating system.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Central air conditioning unit.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The thermostat.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Where to find them:&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The furnace might be <a href=\"https:\/\/www.strandbrothers.com\/blog\/how-to-find-your-furnace-and-change-your-furnace-filter\" target=\"_blank\">in the basement<\/a>, attic, or utility closet, while the A\/C unit will be a large box with a fan outside your home. The thermostat is usually located on a wall in a central living space.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"6-hot-water-heater\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Hot Water Heater<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img  decoding=\"async\"  width=\"1789\"  height=\"520\"  src=\"data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAEAAAABAQMAAAAl21bKAAAAA1BMVEUAAP+KeNJXAAAAAXRSTlMAQObYZgAAAAlwSFlzAAAOxAAADsQBlSsOGwAAAApJREFUCNdjYAAAAAIAAeIhvDMAAAAASUVORK5CYII=\"  alt=\"Hot Water Heater\"  class=\"wp-image-7229 pk-lazyload\"  data-pk-sizes=\"auto\"  data-ls-sizes=\"(max-width: 1789px) 100vw, 1789px\"  data-pk-src=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/03-Hot-Water-Heater.png\"  data-pk-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/03-Hot-Water-Heater.png 1789w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/03-Hot-Water-Heater-300x87.png 300w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/03-Hot-Water-Heater-1024x298.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/03-Hot-Water-Heater-768x223.png 768w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/03-Hot-Water-Heater-1536x446.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/03-Hot-Water-Heater-380x110.png 380w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/03-Hot-Water-Heater-550x160.png 550w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/03-Hot-Water-Heater-800x233.png 800w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/03-Hot-Water-Heater-1160x337.png 1160w\" ><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Standard water heaters are tall, cylindrical tanks, often with visible pipes and valves connected at the top. This appliance heats and stores hot water for your home.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.energy.gov\/energysaver\/do-it-yourself-savings-project-lower-water-heating-temperature\" target=\"_blank\">U.S. Department of Energy <strong>recommends<\/strong><\/a><strong> <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=D04h3vYYVrE\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>setting your water heater<\/strong><\/a><strong> at 120&deg;F<\/strong> (49&deg;C) to reduce the risk of scalding, especially in households with young children or elderly members.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Where to find it:&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Look in the basement, garage, or utility closet.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"7-main-sewer-line-or-septic-system-access\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Main Sewer Line or Septic System Access<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These systems <strong>carry waste from your home<\/strong> to the municipal sewer or your septic system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Where to find them:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Sewer line access points <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mrrooter.com\/about\/blog\/2020\/may\/how-to-find-your-sewer-line\" target=\"_blank\">are often in<\/a> the basement, a crawl space, or outside the home.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For <a href=\"https:\/\/theoriginalplumber.com\/plumbing-tips\/how-to-find-septic-tank\/\" target=\"_blank\">a septic system<\/a>, the tank and its access points are usually located underground in the yard, with the area sometimes indicated by a slight mound or differently colored grass.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"8-attic-and-basement-access\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Attic and Basement Access<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img  decoding=\"async\"  width=\"1789\"  height=\"521\"  src=\"data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAEAAAABAQMAAAAl21bKAAAAA1BMVEUAAP+KeNJXAAAAAXRSTlMAQObYZgAAAAlwSFlzAAAOxAAADsQBlSsOGwAAAApJREFUCNdjYAAAAAIAAeIhvDMAAAAASUVORK5CYII=\"  alt=\"Attic Access\"  class=\"wp-image-7232 pk-lazyload\"  data-pk-sizes=\"auto\"  data-ls-sizes=\"(max-width: 1789px) 100vw, 1789px\"  data-pk-src=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/06-Attic-Access.png\"  data-pk-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/06-Attic-Access.png 1789w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/06-Attic-Access-300x87.png 300w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/06-Attic-Access-1024x298.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/06-Attic-Access-768x224.png 768w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/06-Attic-Access-1536x447.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/06-Attic-Access-380x111.png 380w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/06-Attic-Access-550x160.png 550w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/06-Attic-Access-800x233.png 800w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/06-Attic-Access-1160x338.png 1160w\" ><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These are the entry points to your home&rsquo;s attic and basement areas. <strong>Ensure these areas are easily accessible<\/strong> for safety and convenience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Where to find them:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Look for <strong>a hatch or door<\/strong> in the ceiling for attic access. Basement access is typically via stairs from the main level.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"how\">&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"things-every-homeowner-should-know-how-to-do\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Things Every Homeowner Should Know How to Do<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Being a homeowner sometimes means <a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/spring-home-maintenance\/\">rolling up your sleeves<\/a> for some essential maintenance tasks and repairs. Here are some skills you should be familiar with for the upkeep and safety of your home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"1-reset-your-circuit-breaker\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Reset Your Circuit Breaker<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To identify <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wirechiefelectric.com\/blog\/resources\/what-to-do-if-your-circuit-breaker-trips\" target=\"_blank\">a tripped breaker<\/a>, open your circuit breaker box and look for the breaker that&rsquo;s in the &ldquo;Off&rdquo; position or stuck in the middle. This is the tripped breaker.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Unplug and Turn Off Appliances<\/strong>: Go to the area of your home affected by the outage. Unplug appliances and turn off all lights to prevent overload when the power comes back on.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Reset the Breaker<\/strong>: Firmly <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=Lb2UhcnK7n8\" target=\"_blank\">flip the switch<\/a> on the tripped breaker fully to the &ldquo;Off&rdquo; position, then turn it back to &ldquo;On.&rdquo; This should reset the circuit and restore power.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<html><body><div id=\"2_in_post\">\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/host\" onclick=\"rudderanalytics.track('press editorial cta button', {location: 'second in post', version: '2.0'}, () =&gt; { console.log('track call'); });\">\r\n  <div class=\"second-in-post-cta\">\r\n    <section>\r\n      <div class=\"service-option\">\r\n        <h2 id=\"earn-1000s-per-year-with-your-unused-space\">Earn $1,000s per year with your unused space<\/h2>\r\n        <button>Become a Neighbor host<\/button>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/section>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n<\/a>\n  <\/div><\/body><\/html><h3 id=\"2-shut-off-main-water-and-gas-in-emergencies\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Shut Off Main Water and Gas in Emergencies&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&rsquo;ve got a leak or are doing some plumbing, you&rsquo;ll want to<a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=9gdX5vLLtEQ\" target=\"_blank\"> turn off your main water supply<\/a>.<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Turning off water<\/strong>: For most valves, turn it clockwise to close it. But, if yours has a lever, you&rsquo;ll turn it so it&rsquo;s perpendicular to the pipe.<br>(Quick tip: give it a try before you actually need to, so you&rsquo;re ready if the time comes.)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thisoldhouse.com\/plumbing\/reviews\/what-does-a-gas-leak-smell-like\" target=\"_blank\">smell gas<\/a> (hint: it smells like rotten eggs), it&rsquo;s time to <strong>leave the house<\/strong>. This isn&rsquo;t a DIY job. Call emergency services or your gas company from a safe distance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Turning off gas for appliance installation or repair?<\/strong> In these cases, turn the valve a quarter turn until it&rsquo;s perpendicular to the pipe. Remember, after turning it off for any reason, it should always be turned back on by a qualified professional to ensure your family&rsquo;s safety.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"3-perform-basic-toilet-repairs\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Perform Basic Toilet Repairs&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&rsquo;re concerned about an overflowing toilet while doing repairs, it&rsquo;s usually a good idea to begin by turning off the water to the toilet before starting. This valve can be found near the floor behind the toilet.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><img  decoding=\"async\"  src=\"data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAEAAAABAQMAAAAl21bKAAAAA1BMVEUAAP+KeNJXAAAAAXRSTlMAQObYZgAAAAlwSFlzAAAOxAAADsQBlSsOGwAAAApJREFUCNdjYAAAAAIAAeIhvDMAAAAASUVORK5CYII=\"  style=\"width: 1333px;\"  class=\" pk-lazyload\"  data-pk-sizes=\"auto\"  data-pk-src=\"https:\/\/lh7-us.googleusercontent.com\/nL5uUO-YAdAX1yr9jPKWaozTa2KcE_EMR1oE4AJpWN0jCGWbJe6W0PL7g6dfy660cCU3qKqzEeZVLTRMriFXQ_p0OdELMpJwvwNF4oCiKAkzj-qKvDK6xGv2_PIziV_iwjFqQSo5wo7oAhjKwfNiIjw\" ><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Fix a running toilet<\/strong>: Inside your toilet tank, there&rsquo;s a rubber part called a flapper. It opens to let water out when you flush and seals back to fill up the tank. If the toilet keeps running, check if the flapper is sealing properly. It might just need an adjustment or replacement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Clogged toilet?<\/strong> Grab a plunger. Create a seal over the hole at the bottom of the bowl, then give a few firm, upward, and downward plunges. This often dislodges whatever&rsquo;s causing the blockage.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you encounter leaks around the toilet base or complex internal issues, it&rsquo;s time to call a plumber.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"4-change-hvac-filters\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Change HVAC Filters&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">HVAC filters are mesh screens that <em>trap dust and allergen<\/em>s, ensuring clean air circulates through your heating and cooling system. They&rsquo;re found either in the main HVAC unit, in air return vents, or in ceiling or wall-mounted air handlers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.airfiltersdelivered.com\/blogs\/helpful-tips\/how-to-replace-the-air-filter-in-your-home\" target=\"_blank\"><em>Change your filters<\/em><\/a><em> every 1-3 months<\/em>, depending on your system and household needs (like pets or allergies).<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Finding the right filter:<\/strong> Before buying a new filter, check the printed description on the edge of your current one so you can ensure you get the right size.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Changing filters: <\/strong>Locate the filter, slide it out, and check its condition. If it&rsquo;s clogged with dust, it&rsquo;s time for a new one. Slide in the replacement, making sure it faces the correct direction (there&rsquo;s usually an arrow on the side indicating airflow direction).&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"5-unclog-drains\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Unclog Drains&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you encounter a slow-draining sink in your new house, don&rsquo;t worry. Unclogging drains is a breeze most of the time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img  decoding=\"async\"  src=\"data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAEAAAABAQMAAAAl21bKAAAAA1BMVEUAAP+KeNJXAAAAAXRSTlMAQObYZgAAAAlwSFlzAAAOxAAADsQBlSsOGwAAAApJREFUCNdjYAAAAAIAAeIhvDMAAAAASUVORK5CYII=\"  alt=\"\"  class=\" pk-lazyload\"  data-pk-sizes=\"auto\"  data-pk-src=\"https:\/\/lh7-us.googleusercontent.com\/XxX4wFehUi97ZOZsA2K7Je8_BJ9tfh-9lWjL4nEUrvi1MkARxkJaDJwIFCYGXa8iVbaxEp3yQwqBRgm_3Gpw7IG_CZLdZ9yQUcm36Psoh934QSkuokHQ8d008eYNzMtr6EjdjrcLCK1seOA2xqq3sQU\" ><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Identifying the clog<\/strong>: Common culprits are hair in bathroom drains and food particles in kitchen sinks.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Kitchen and bathroom essentials<\/strong>: Start with a plunger. If it&rsquo;s a sink, cover the overflow hole with a wet cloth, then plunge vigorously. Before resorting to harsh chemicals, try pouring a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by hot water.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"6-patch-holes-in-walls\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Patch Holes in Walls&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dealing with minor wall damage is a common part of home maintenance, especially when moving into a new home, replacing wall art, or after redecorating.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Simple patching<\/strong>: Small holes from nails or screws are <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=opetyNmTw-M\" target=\"_blank\">easy to fix<\/a>. You&rsquo;ll need some spackle, a putty knife, and sandpaper. Apply spackle with the knife, let it dry, then sand it smooth.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Touch up paint<\/strong>: Once the spackle is dry and sanded, touch up the area with matching paint. <em>Keeping a small amount of paint from each room<\/em> for these occasions is a smart move for any homeowner.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"7-replace-light-bulbs-and-fixtures\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Replace Light Bulbs and Fixtures&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Changing bulbs is one of the simplest tasks and only requires spare light bulbs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>When a bulb burns out<\/strong>: Turn off the fixture, unscrew the old bulb, and screw in a new one of the correct size and wattage.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Fixture updates<\/strong>: For more significant updates like replacing a light fixture, always turn off the power at the circuit breaker first. If you&rsquo;re not confident in electrical work, this might be a job for an electrician.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"8-clean-gutters-and-downspouts\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Clean Gutters and Downspouts&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Clogged gutters can lead to water damage on your roof and walls. Regular cleaning, especially in fall and spring, can prevent this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>The process<\/strong>: Use a ladder to reach your gutters and remove debris by hand or with a gutter scoop. Flush the gutters and downspouts with a hose to clear any remaining blockages.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Always use a sturdy ladder and have someone spot you if possible. If your gutters are hard to reach, consider hiring a professional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While you don&rsquo;t need to master these skills before move in day, it&rsquo;s a good idea to be prepared!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"final-thoughts\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Final Thoughts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your new home checklist will likely be <a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/ultimate-guide-moving-insurance\/\">much longer<\/a>, and your move in process will include items like updating your new address with local utility providers and credit card companies, as well as setting up internet service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Just remember that whether you&rsquo;re still house hunting, purchasing new furniture for your first house, preparing to downsize, or remodeling your space, you may have a few items that need to go into storage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To keep your belongings safe and out of the way in a nearby, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/move-out-day-checklist\/\">convenient<\/a> storage unit, check out Neighbor, a peer-to-peer storage marketplace that offers <a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/ultimate-guide-moving-insurance\/\">safe<\/a>, affordable units for your needs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Simplify your move and explore options on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/self-storage-near-me\">Neighbor&rsquo;s Self Storage Near Me<\/a> page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"related-content\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related Content <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/affordable-home-improvement\"><strong>Affordable Home Improvement Projects<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/neighbor.com\/how-to-host?utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=article_cta&amp;campaign=list_your_space\"><strong>Rent Out Your Unused Space<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/neighbor.com\/how-to-host?utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=article_cta&amp;campaign=list_your_space\">Make $50-$500 each month renting your garage, basement, shed or other storage space<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/neighbor.com\/host?utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=article_cta&amp;campaign=list_your_space\"><strong>List Your Space<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/neighbor.com\/search?utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=article_cta&amp;campaign=find_storage\"><strong>Save 50% on Storage<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"congratulations-on-owning-your-first-home\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Congratulations on Owning Your First Home!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Homeownership comes with a lot of work, but it&rsquo;s also rewarding. Keep your new home looking its best with our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/home-organization-guide\/\">complete guide to home organization<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img  decoding=\"async\"  width=\"1789\"  height=\"520\"  src=\"data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAEAAAABAQMAAAAl21bKAAAAA1BMVEUAAP+KeNJXAAAAAXRSTlMAQObYZgAAAAlwSFlzAAAOxAAADsQBlSsOGwAAAApJREFUCNdjYAAAAAIAAeIhvDMAAAAASUVORK5CYII=\"  alt=\"Basic Landscaping\"  class=\"wp-image-7238 pk-lazyload\"  data-pk-sizes=\"auto\"  data-ls-sizes=\"(max-width: 1789px) 100vw, 1789px\"  data-pk-src=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/12-Basic-Landscaping.png\"  data-pk-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/12-Basic-Landscaping.png 1789w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/12-Basic-Landscaping-300x87.png 300w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/12-Basic-Landscaping-1024x298.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/12-Basic-Landscaping-768x223.png 768w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/12-Basic-Landscaping-1536x446.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/12-Basic-Landscaping-380x110.png 380w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/12-Basic-Landscaping-550x160.png 550w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/12-Basic-Landscaping-800x233.png 800w, https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/12-Basic-Landscaping-1160x337.png 1160w\" ><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div><\/body><\/html>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Learn everything you need to be able to find and do in your new house with this \u2014\u00a0the Complete First-Time Homeowner\u2019s Guide.\n","protected":false},"author":41,"featured_media":7226,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"csco_singular_sidebar":"","csco_page_header_type":"","csco_appearance_grid":"","csco_page_load_nextpost":"","csco_post_video_location":[],"csco_post_video_location_hash":"","csco_post_video_url":"","csco_post_video_bg_start_time":0,"csco_post_video_bg_end_time":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[42],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7225","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-home-maintenance","cs-entry","cs-video-wrap"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v21.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>A First-Time Homeowners Guide on Everything You Should Know - Neighbor Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn everything you need to be able to find and do in your new house with this \u2014\u00a0the Complete First-Time Homeowner\u2019s Guide.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/new-homeowners-guide\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"A First-Time Homeowners Guide on Everything You Should Know - Neighbor Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Learn everything you need to be able to find and do in your new house with this \u2014\u00a0the Complete First-Time Homeowner\u2019s Guide.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/new-homeowners-guide\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Neighbor Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2021-03-02T16:00:00+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2024-01-30T00:25:17+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/00-The-Complete-First-Time-Homebuyers-Guide-Hero.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1914\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1269\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Jessica Baron\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Jessica Baron\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"11 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/new-homeowners-guide\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/new-homeowners-guide\/\",\"name\":\"A First-Time Homeowners Guide on Everything You Should Know - Neighbor Blog\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/#website\"},\"datePublished\":\"2021-03-02T16:00:00+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-01-30T00:25:17+00:00\",\"author\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/#\/schema\/person\/8a6b451217387e729467aa42c7a7be2f\"},\"description\":\"Learn everything you need to be able to find and do in your new house with this \u2014\u00a0the Complete First-Time Homeowner\u2019s Guide.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/new-homeowners-guide\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/new-homeowners-guide\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/new-homeowners-guide\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"A First-Time Homeowners Guide on Everything You Should Know\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/\",\"name\":\"Neighbor Blog\",\"description\":\"Official Blog of Neighbor.com\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":\"required name=search_term_string\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/#\/schema\/person\/8a6b451217387e729467aa42c7a7be2f\",\"name\":\"Jessica Baron\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9d1c4d1c392f5d20aa865f6adec5b3e9cf4ac056e245e364e314d38a266d8331?s=96&d=blank&r=pg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9d1c4d1c392f5d20aa865f6adec5b3e9cf4ac056e245e364e314d38a266d8331?s=96&d=blank&r=pg\",\"caption\":\"Jessica Baron\"},\"description\":\"Jessica Baron is a professional business writer and editor specializing in technology, manufacturing, and management software. She has written everything from white papers to blogs for small businesses and Fortune 500 companies alike. She has also served as the managing editor of a top-tier academic journal and the editor-in-chief of an international technology news website.\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/author\/jessicabaron\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"A First-Time Homeowners Guide on Everything You Should Know - Neighbor Blog","description":"Learn everything you need to be able to find and do in your new house with this \u2014\u00a0the Complete First-Time Homeowner\u2019s Guide.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/new-homeowners-guide\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"A First-Time Homeowners Guide on Everything You Should Know - Neighbor Blog","og_description":"Learn everything you need to be able to find and do in your new house with this \u2014\u00a0the Complete First-Time Homeowner\u2019s Guide.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/new-homeowners-guide\/","og_site_name":"Neighbor Blog","article_published_time":"2021-03-02T16:00:00+00:00","article_modified_time":"2024-01-30T00:25:17+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1914,"height":1269,"url":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/00-The-Complete-First-Time-Homebuyers-Guide-Hero.png","type":"image\/png"}],"author":"Jessica Baron","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Jessica Baron","Est. reading time":"11 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/new-homeowners-guide\/","url":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/new-homeowners-guide\/","name":"A First-Time Homeowners Guide on Everything You Should Know - Neighbor Blog","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/#website"},"datePublished":"2021-03-02T16:00:00+00:00","dateModified":"2024-01-30T00:25:17+00:00","author":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/#\/schema\/person\/8a6b451217387e729467aa42c7a7be2f"},"description":"Learn everything you need to be able to find and do in your new house with this \u2014\u00a0the Complete First-Time Homeowner\u2019s Guide.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/new-homeowners-guide\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/new-homeowners-guide\/"]}]},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/new-homeowners-guide\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"A First-Time Homeowners Guide on Everything You Should Know"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/","name":"Neighbor Blog","description":"Official Blog of Neighbor.com","potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":"required name=search_term_string"}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/#\/schema\/person\/8a6b451217387e729467aa42c7a7be2f","name":"Jessica Baron","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9d1c4d1c392f5d20aa865f6adec5b3e9cf4ac056e245e364e314d38a266d8331?s=96&d=blank&r=pg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9d1c4d1c392f5d20aa865f6adec5b3e9cf4ac056e245e364e314d38a266d8331?s=96&d=blank&r=pg","caption":"Jessica Baron"},"description":"Jessica Baron is a professional business writer and editor specializing in technology, manufacturing, and management software. She has written everything from white papers to blogs for small businesses and Fortune 500 companies alike. She has also served as the managing editor of a top-tier academic journal and the editor-in-chief of an international technology news website.","url":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/author\/jessicabaron\/"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7225","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/41"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7225"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7225\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":11656,"href":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7225\/revisions\/11656"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/7226"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7225"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7225"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7225"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}