So, you’ve just purchased and moved into a new place, and you’re wondering how to make a house a home – you know that feeling? While there is something magical about transforming your new house into a home, it can be challenging.

I’m excited to share some tips that have worked wonders for me and my clients – and might just do the same for you. After spending years helping individuals and families find their new houses, I’ve picked up many tips on turning a new collection of rooms into a space that feels like your own.

How to Make a House a Home: No Stress Required

Before you let the overwhelming sense of anxiety creep in, there are plenty of ways to start making your new home feel cozier. Some you can start right away!

Whether you plan to overhaul your new home completely or just need to start adding a few personal touches while you figure out the rest, these tips help make the process easier – meaning you can fully embrace your new space.

#1 Start with the Heart

Bedrooms and bathrooms are important, but it’s often best to situate the rooms dedicated to gathering. For many, this is the kitchen or the living room. However, if you prefer spending your free time on a porch or sunroom, feel free to begin there!

Whichever room is your home’s “heart,” start filling it with the things that bring it to life. If the kitchen is the heart of your home, stock your shelves, fill the fridge, and lay out your favorite tablecloth or runner. When I think of how to make a house a home, I start with the rooms in the home that I spend the most time in (not sleeping, of course!).

#2 Refresh with Colors that Speak to You

Even if you love the previous owners’ color scheme, it may not feel like your own. There is nothing quite like a fresh coat of paint to set the tone of your new home.

It’s your canvas to create a space that resonates with your vibe. Choose hues that make you feel at ease when you walk through the door, from calming blues to vibrant yellows. Before you know it, your house will feel like a home, and you can move on to your next project.

how to make a house a home

#3 Get Outside

Whether you moved during the warmer season or the colder months, acquainting yourself with your home’s outdoor spaces can be refreshing. Plus, beautifying your outdoor spaces helps you feel like you’ve arrived home every time you pull into your drive.

If the weather allows it, try planting some new plants and flowers. Pull any pesky weeds and add a few landscaping pieces to make your yard more vibrant.

#4 Furniture that Fits Just Right

Furniture plays a huge role in how a space feels. While I’m all for sentimental pieces, mismatched furniture can throw off the harmony of a room. Usually, you bring furniture from your previous home when moving into a new one.

While these pieces hold many memories of your last home, they may not look right in your space. Think about grabbing some new items that fit the space perfectly. And you don’t have to start with the largest pieces. Sometimes, it’s those little accent pieces that work like magic!

If you need some help, check out my friends at Style Redefined. They are amazing and local.

#5 Meet & Greet the Neighbors

Building new relationships might seem daunting, but trust me, it’s worth it. Knowing your neighbors adds to your sense of community and makes you feel more secure and settled.

The more you get to know your neighbors, the more you learn about your new community. Ask about their favorite spots to grab a bite, which parks are best for kids, and how they spend their weekends. Before you know it, this new, strange town you moved to will begin to feel like your own little corner of the world.

You can also get involved in the community:

#6 Make Space for Your Hobbies

A new home provides a blank canvas, making it perfect for finding the perfect space for your hobbies to call home. An empty garage or basement becomes the perfect place for your tools if you like to tinker around and build new things.

Or, an extra bedroom can easily become your new crafting room or even an art studio if you’re looking for a way to nurture your creative side. The sky is truly the limit, but the sooner you make room for the things you love to do, the sooner you can make your house a home.

How To Make a House a Home

There is no secret to knowing how to make a house a home. It all comes down to starting small and making your way through your new home – adding personal touches while you get to know the space.