Must Have Items for Your First Home
We’ve all heard the catchphrase “fake it till you make it.” Many of us outfitted our first apartments with hand-me-downs and treasures from the free section of the classifieds. Once a home of your own becomes a reality, it’s time to outfit it with items that reflect your personal taste and style. Here’s our list of accessories that we consider a must for your first house.
Dining Room Table: There was a time when a TV tray or coffee table sufficed, but now that you’ve got a home of your own, that doesn’t cut the mustard any longer. Soon family and friends will be volunteering you host playoff parties and holiday dinners. When it comes to tables, bigger isn’t always better. Be sure to select one that allows guests to comfortably move in and out of their chairs without bumping into the walls.
Light Fixtures That Make a Statement: Lighting sets the mood of your home. Too much is an eyesore (not to mention highlights an imperfections in a room) and too little makes a room less functional. Opt for a few unique fixtures that can be placed throughout your home and act as a conversation piece. You don’t have to break the bank though. There are lots of affordable, attractive options, both in stores and online.
Clog-Free Gutters: Gutters? Not nearly as much fun as a hot tub or surround sound, but skip them and your basement can become flooded with water during heavy rainfall. And that weekend you broke your back landscaping? It will be all for when the water rushing off your roof has nowhere to go except straight 
down. Back to the point about breaking your back, if you have gutters that clog and you’re forced to climb a ladder to manually clean them, breaking your back, leg, (you get the idea) can be a real possibility.
Matching Items: Whether it is towels, wine glasses, plates or coffee cups, make sure you have sets that match and that you’re proud to have your guests use.
Artwork: We’re not saying it’s got to be a Monet or a Picasso. What we are saying is that the neon beer signs and Metallica posters need to come down and some sort of framed artwork, canvas or decorative mirror needs to go up. Websites such as Etsy (though don’t login unless you’ve got a couple hours to spare…)
and local galleries and student exhibitions can be a great way to pick out beautiful art that’s reasonably priced.
A Living Room set not Previously Owned by Anyone Else in Your Family: Antique furniture aside, a new living room deserves comfortable furniture that mimics your personal taste and works with your lifestyle. Quality furniture can last a long time when properly cared for. Score deals by shopping around Memorial Day, the 4th of July, Labor Day and Christmas.
