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What to Expect in Your First Year in a New Home

February 9, 2025

So, you’ve just moved into your brand-new home—congratulations! There’s nothing quite like the feeling of stepping into a space that’s truly yours, untouched by anyone else. At River Stone Construction, we know how exciting (and maybe a little overwhelming) this first year can be, especially if it’s your first time buying from a Chattanooga TN home builder. But don’t worry—we’re here to walk you through what to expect, so you can settle in with confidence.

1. Embracing the Lived-In Look

Let’s be real—no matter how careful you are, your pristine new home won’t stay perfect forever. Think of it like a brand-new car: as much as you try to keep it spotless, life happens. There will be scuffed walls, spilled drinks, and pet fur that somehow finds its way onto everything. And that’s okay! These little imperfections are signs that your house is becoming a home. The key is to address small dings and messes as they come up—touch up the paint, clean up spills quickly, and don’t stress too much over everyday wear and tear.

2. Things Might Break (And That’s Normal!)

Even in a brand-new home, things will eventually need fixing. Maybe a faucet drips, or an appliance decides to act up. While it’s never fun when something stops working, it’s part of homeownership. A good rule of thumb is to set aside 1-3% of your home’s value each year for maintenance and unexpected repairs. The good news? Your new home comes with warranties, so be sure to take advantage of them if needed. And remember, River Stone Construction is always here to help answer questions about your home’s systems and features.

3. Your Social Scene Might Shift

Moving into a new home doesn’t just mean a change of address—it can also bring a shift in your social life. You’ll meet new neighbors, maybe even join a local group or find a new favorite coffee shop. Before you know it, you’ll be hosting housewarming parties and backyard barbecues! This is one of the most exciting parts of moving—embracing new friendships, experiences, and a fresh start in a new community.

4. Your Style Might Evolve

A new home has a way of inspiring new ideas—especially when it comes to décor. Maybe your old furniture doesn’t quite fit the space, or you suddenly feel drawn to a different aesthetic. That contemporary sofa might look out of place in your Modern Farmhouse-style home, or you might find yourself hunting for the perfect statement piece to complete a bright, open-concept living room. Give yourself time to explore what feels right in your new space. After all, decorating is part of the fun!

Ready to Find Your New Home?

If you’re thinking about making a move, River Stone Construction is here to help! As a trusted Chattanooga TN home builder, we have a variety of Quick Move-In Homes available in Cleveland, Signal Mountain, Harrison, Chattanooga, TN, and Dalton, GA. Whether you’re looking for a single-family home or a luxury townhome, we’d love to help you find the perfect fit. Check out our Quick Move-In homes today!

Have questions or want to schedule a tour? Give us a call at 423-954-7550—we can’t wait to welcome you home!

This post was written by River Stone.