Buying a home is exciting.

You plan for the down payment.
You calculate the mortgage.
You estimate closing costs.

But what surprises most buyers aren’t the big numbers.

It’s the smaller, post-closing expenses that quietly add up in the first 90 days.

If you’re thinking about buying this year, here’s what often gets overlooked.

1️⃣ Window Treatments

Many homes don’t include blinds or curtain panels — especially new builds.

Even if they do, you may want:

• Privacy upgrades

• Blackout options for bedrooms

• Updated rods or hardware

Outfitting an entire home with window coverings can cost more than buyers expect.

2️⃣ Paint (Even If the Walls Look Fine)

You may love the house but not the color.

Paint seems inexpensive until you factor in:

• Supplies

• Trim touch-ups

• Ceilings

• Hiring professionals

Repainting even a few rooms can easily become a first-month project expense.

3️⃣ Lighting Updates

Builders and sellers often leave basic fixtures in place.

Common post-move upgrades:

• Dining room light

• Entry chandelier

• Bathroom vanity lighting

• Bedroom ceiling fans

Lighting dramatically changes how a home feels — and it’s one of the first updates many buyers make.

4️⃣ Small Repairs You Didn’t Notice During Showings

After you move in, you’ll spot:

• Loose handles

• Sticky doors

• Worn caulk

• Slow drains

• Minor drywall imperfections

None are major — but they add up in time and cost.

5️⃣ Landscaping & Outdoor Setup

This one surprises buyers the most.

You may need:

• A lawn mower

• Yard tools

• Hose + storage

• Mulch refresh

• Seasonal plantings

Even simple outdoor upkeep requires a starter investment.

6️⃣ Storage Solutions

Once you move in, you realize:

• You need closet systems

• Garage shelving

• Pantry organizers

• Mudroom hooks

The house has space — but not always systems.

7️⃣ Utility Adjustments

Sometimes monthly costs shift:

• Water

• Power

• Trash

• HOA dues

It’s wise to leave room in your budget for the first few months while you learn your new normal.

The Smart Way to Prepare

Instead of stretching your budget to the max for the purchase itself, consider creating a “First 90 Days Fund.”

This doesn’t have to be huge — just a buffer that allows you to:

• Personalize your space

• Handle small surprises

• Upgrade thoughtfully instead of urgently

The goal isn’t to scare buyers.

It’s to empower them.

A home purchase is more than the transaction — it’s the setup phase afterward that shapes how settled you feel.

And when you plan for the hidden costs, you move in with confidence instead of stress.