Brand-new homeowners always ask: where do I start? After thousands of Long Island house calls, this is the list we'd hand a friend.
Week 1: Safety
Before anything cosmetic, lock down safety.
- Re-key every exterior lock
- Test and replace smoke + CO detectors
- Label every breaker in the panel
- Locate the main water shut-off
- Photograph every appliance serial number
Week 2: Quick wins
Small fixes that change how the house feels.
- Tighten every loose door hinge
- Re-caulk all tubs and showers
- Replace any browned or warm outlets
- Touch up paint scuffs in main rooms
Weeks 3–4: Set the routine
Build habits that protect the house long-term.
- Schedule HVAC tune-up
- Set a quarterly gutter clean reminder
- Build a simple home file (warranties, manuals)
- Book a one-day handyman 'punch list' for everything left
Key Takeaways
- ✓ Re-key locks day one.
- ✓ Caulk and outlets next.
- ✓ Bundle the rest into one handyman visit.
Frequently Asked
Can Apex knock most of this out in a single visit?
Yes. Most new-homeowner punch lists fit inside a 4–8 hour visit. We bring the materials, you point and check items off.