By Monique Serbu, RISMedia’s Housecall
More and more millennials are buying homes, representing around 45 percent of all purchase loans, and most first-time millennial home buyers are on a limited budget. While you may not be able to find the perfect home that checks every box on your “dream home” list, you can find a great starter house you can improve on or add to over time.
As you hunt for your first home and make the big purchasing decision, make sure your checklist of new home essentials includes the following seven musts.
1. Energy-Efficient Features
Not only is energy efficiency trendy, but it also saves you money on your power bill and reduces your carbon footprint. When viewing homes on the market, look for energy-efficient features like double-paned windows, solar panels, attic insulation, LED lighting, and ENERGY STAR®appliances. When you move into your new domicile, invest in the Nest Learning Thermostat, which helps save you money on your energy bill and allows you to control your house’s temperature from your phone.
2. An Entertainment Center
Moving from an apartment to a home means more room, so celebrate with an entertainment space. Equip a portion of your living room with a comfy couch, a big screen TV, and a stereo system. Don’t forget a TV package and a streaming stick to access your favorite channels, such as HBO and Starz, and streaming services, including Netflix and Hulu. Trust us—your friends will thank you, and your home will be everyone’s favorite hangout.
3. Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
