🏡 New Homeowner's Guide 101: Sacramento Edition

Your essential handbook for moving in, settling down, and staying sane

So, you bought a home in Sacramento—congrats! Whether it’s a cozy bungalow in Midtown, a spacious ranch in Elk Grove, or a new build in Natomas, stepping into homeownership is a big deal.

But now what? You’ve got keys, a mortgage, and maybe even a welcome mat. And you're probably asking:
“Is there a Sacramento homeowner guide I should be reading right now?”

We got you.

This guide breaks down the homeownership basics—from safety must-dos to budget-friendly maintenance tips. Whether you’re brand new to homeownership or just want to make sure you’re not missing anything, this is your go-to checklist. Let’s dive in.

Step 1: First-Day Essentials – Safety Comes First

Before you start planning where the couch goes, let’s handle the non-negotiables.

✅ Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

• Check smoke detectors in every bedroom and hallway. Push the test button—does it beep? Good.

• Use non-rechargeable alkaline batteries, and replace them yearly.

• Sacramento homes often use combo detectors—look for models with both photoelectric and ionization sensors.

✅ Carbon Monoxide Detectors

• Required by California law in homes with gas appliances or attached garages.

• Place one on every level and near sleeping areas.

• Plug-in models with battery backup work great.

✅ Fire Extinguishers

• One per floor is ideal. Store under the kitchen sink, in the garage, and by bedrooms if possible.

• Everyone in the house should know where they are and how to use them.

✅ Change the Locks

You never know who has a copy of the old keys. Hire a local locksmith or ask your real estate agent if this service was included in your closing.

Step 2: Fire & Water – Prevent Bigger Problems Later

🔥 Dryer Safety

• Turn on the dryer and go outside—can you feel the warm air? If not, the vent might be blocked.

• Swap plastic ducts for metal ducts. Use foil tape, not duct tape, to seal connections.

• Clean lint traps every load, and deep-clean vents annually.

💧 Water Protection

• Check downspouts. Make sure they drain away from your foundation.

• Add extensions if needed. Sacramento’s clay-heavy soil doesn’t drain quickly.

• Sump pump? If you’ve got a basement (rare, but they exist), make sure it's operational.

Step 3: Chill. You’re Not Flipping This in a Weekend

Owning a home is a long game. Don’t stress if everything isn’t “Pinterest perfect” in the first month—or even year.

💡 Inspiration, Not Intimidation

That neighbor with the manicured yard and smart home setup? They’ve probably been working on their place for years. Focus on progress, not perfection.

Step 4: Find Your Shutoffs (Yes, Really)

You don’t want to be Googling this during a burst pipe emergency.

🔌 Breaker Box

• Find it. Open it. Label it.

• A fun weekend project: turn everything on, flip breakers one by one, and label what each controls.

🚰 Water Shutoff

Usually near the front of the house. Know how to turn it off quickly.

🔥 Gas Shutoff

Locate it. Buy a shutoff tool. In case of emergency, exit the house and call the fire department.

Step 5: Future You Will Thank You

📄 Create a Homeowner Binder or Google Doc

• Store account numbers, emergency contacts, appliance manuals, and Sacramento utility info in one place.

• Share it with your partner or family. Trust us, it’s a lifesaver.

🛠️ Start a Home Maintenance Fund

• Experts suggest budgeting 1% of your home’s value annually for repairs.

• Can’t swing that yet? Start small—$25/month is better than $0.

Step 6: Sacramento-Specific Home Tips

💦 Low-Flow Upgrades

Sacramento summers get HOT. Save on utilities by:

• Installing low-flow faucet aerators and showerheads

• Swapping in LED bulbs

• Using blackout or cellular blinds to lower your cooling bills

🧾 Property Taxes

• Check if your property taxes are included in your mortgage or paid separately to Sacramento County.

• Some homeowners opt into monthly payments for easier budgeting. Visit the Sacramento County Tax Collector for info.

🧰 Free City Services

• SMUD and PG&E sometimes offer free energy audits.

• Sacramento utility customers may qualify for rebates on water-saving devices and turf replacement.

• Call 311 or visit City of Sacramento’s website for available services.

Bonus: Tools Every New Homeowner Should Have

• Power drill + bits

• Stud finder

• Plunger (buy this before you need it)

• Basic wrench & screwdriver set

• Headlamp flashlight

• Earplugs, eye protection

• Label maker or masking tape & Sharpie for labeling everything

Final Thoughts

Becoming a homeowner in Sacramento is more than just a real estate milestone—it’s a commitment to learning, maintaining, and making the space your own. You don’t need to do it all at once, and you’re not alone.

Take your time. Build systems. Make mistakes. Learn.
And remember: You’ve got this.

💬 Questions or want a printable checklist version?

Shoot us a message. We're always happy to help Sacramento homeowners feel confident and prepared.