15 popular projects for new homeowners
Thumbtack Staff•Last updated Jan 19, 2023
Last updated Jan 19, 2023
Table of Contents
- 1. Rekey exterior locks
- 2. Deep cleaning
- 3. New interior and exterior paint
- 4. Landscaping
- 5. Fence repairs
- 6. Roof repairs
- 7. Floor repairs and replacement
- 8. Furnace/HVAC system repairs and replacement
- 9. Plumbing repairs and replacement
- 10. Water heater repairs and replacement
- 11. Regrout and recaulk bathroom tile
- 12. Cabinet repairs and replacement
- 13. Countertop repairs and replacement
- 14. Kitchen appliance repairs and replacement
- 15. Lighting replacement
- Get your home move-in ready
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With millennial first-time home buyers taking advantage of record-low mortgage rates, many are unaware of the projects that they may have to complete in order to get their new home move-in ready. Thumbtack’s new research and survey data, in partnership with Zillow, found a typical home on the market could require $26,900 of work. This may come as a shock to the large majority (65%) of active home shoppers who are not seeking a fixer-upper.
If you’re thinking about buying a home, then make sure you set aside some money to tackle any needed repairs or maintenance. Keep reading to see the most common projects new homeowners face.
1. Rekey exterior locks
Estimated cost: $350
When you move into a home that was previously owned, consider rekeying your locks. It’s a quick way to secure your home and gain peace of mind. Many options, including smart locks, can help you protect your home when you’re away. You might also want to install a home security system complete with cameras, alarms, motion sensors and more.
2. Deep cleaning
Estimated cost: $180
Many new homeowners choose to have a comprehensive whole-home cleaning for around $180. This deep cleaning can give you a fresh start and help reduce dingy-looking surfaces, while also lowering the need for costly repairs over time. From removing mineral deposits from toilets to dusting ceiling fans, a whole-home cleaning can help reset your space.
If your new home doesn’t need a top-to-bottom deep clean, be prepared to clean your flooring:
- Carpet cleaning: $190
- Tile flooring cleaning: $440
- Hardwood floor cleaning: $495
3. New interior and exterior paint
- Paint a room: $385
- Paint cabinetry: $1,105
- Repaint whole home interior: $1,240
- Repaint whole home exterior: $2,415
A new paint job can completely change your new home’s look and fix minor issues. Repainting your home’s exterior can also protect it from the elements while boosting curb appeal.
Inside your home, you might want to repaint your living room, bedroom and kitchen walls and cabinets — especially if the existing paint is chipped or the color isn’t quite what you envisioned for your new home.
4. Landscaping
Estimated cost: $545
New homeowners also tend to spend money on improving their home’s landscaping to boost curb appeal and create an outdoor living area. You might want to plant trees for more shade or flowers for pollinators. Or you may choose low-maintenance landscaping features for your yard. For example, some homeowners choose to install gravel walkways or stone patios instead of grass and a garden.
5. Fence repairs
Estimated cost: $570
Not only does fencing add curb appeal, it also creates a boundary and provides some privacy from your neighbors. If your fencing has structural issues like leaning, missing boards, rotted wood or mildew damage, it will need repairs. Expect to spend about $570 for repairs done by a professional.
6. Roof repairs
Estimated cost: $800
When you move into a new home, get your roof inspected. A roofer can identify issues that could become expensive repairs down the line. For example, they can check for:
- Missing shingles or tiles
- Cracked, warped or broken materials
- Mold and mildew growth
If you don’t address important repairs early on, you may need a new roof later, which could cost you thousands of dollars.
7. Floor repairs and replacement
- Repair cost: $315-$1,245
- Replacement cost: $690-$1,790
Does your new home have uneven floors? How about noticeable scratches or dents? If so, consider repairing or refinishing your existing flooring to make it look brand new.
Maybe you’re not happy with your current flooring and want to replace it. Consider these options for your new home:
- Carpet ($690): Provides warmth and comfort but can be a nuisance to clean.
- Tile ($1,620): Water-resistant and great for bathrooms.
- Hardwood ($1,790): Classic style that can be refinished and last a long time.
8. Furnace/HVAC system repairs and replacement
Estimated cost: $340-$3,615
Essential for the modern home, a broken heating and cooling system can make you miserable during warm and cool seasons. A faulty furnace or HVAC system can also be a safety hazard and lead to higher energy bills. Set aside money in your budget to prepare for these common projects after you move in:
- Evaluate/repair furnace: $340
- Evaluate/repair HVAC: $390
- HVAC repairs/replacement: $3,615
9. Plumbing repairs and replacement
Estimated cost: $335-$370
Water waste can become a huge problem. From faucets to water heaters, regular maintenance and repairs are much more cost-effective than replacements. For example, a minor leak can quickly become a new fountain for the bathroom sink — something no new homeowner wants to deal with. If your new home has plumbing problems, fix those issues ASAP.
10. Water heater repairs and replacement
Estimated cost: $515-$785
Do you enjoy a hot shower in the morning? Make sure your new home’s water heater is working. You should also schedule regular maintenance. Staying on top of maintenance is a much better option than replacing a broken water heater later.
11. Regrout and recaulk bathroom tile
Estimated cost: $420
Your tiled bathroom surfaces can become quite unappealing over time if you don’t maintain the grout. Inspect every bathroom in your new home and check your tile floors, shower walls and countertops for signs of cracked or crumbling grout, along with loose or uneven tiles.
12. Cabinet repairs and replacement
Estimated cost: $910-$1,365
The cabinets in your new home should be solid and sturdy. If they’re not damaged beyond repair, you may want to consider repainting them ($1,105) or adding new hardware to give them a fresh, updated look.
13. Countertop repairs and replacement
Estimated cost: $475-$1,185
Your bathroom and kitchen counters will endure heat, water and daily wear and tear. Make sure your countertops are in good condition. Check for cracks, chips, scratches, water damage and stains. Depending on the damage, a professional may be able to repair your counters, or you might need to replace them.
14. Kitchen appliance repairs and replacement
Estimated cost: $235-$270
Hopefully, your refrigerator, stove, microwave, garbage disposal and dishwasher are working properly when you move into your new home. If not, try to get them repaired.
If a professional gives you a repair quote, also ask about the cost to replace your appliances. If repairing them costs more than, or about the same as, replacing them, you might be better off upgrading to brand-new appliances.
15. Lighting replacement
Estimated cost: $355
Lighting creates safer spaces — both outdoors and indoors. As you inspect the lights in every room around your home, check the lighting around your outdoor steps, swimming pools, water features and indoor staircases. If they’re not working properly, fix or replace them.
Get your home move-in ready
Purchasing a home is an exciting and rewarding experience. If you’re a new or soon-to-be homeowner, avoid financial stress by understanding the hidden costs of repairs, replacements and upgrades. Please remember: while these common projects can cost nearly $30,000, living in a functioning, comfortable and beautiful home is priceless.
Methodology: To help first-time buyers feel prepared for the home-buying journey, Thumbtack partnered with Zillow to compile a list of the most common projects its teams tackle after purchasing homes through Zillow Offers, a service that allows sellers to skip prep, open houses and showings by selling directly to the company. Then, using that list of common repairs, Thumbtack calculated the national average costs to complete each project. All prices shown reflect the national average across the U.S. Prices may vary by city depending on supply and demand, price of materials, etc. For data on specific regions, please go to Thumbtack.
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