Here’s 10 Tips to Make Your House Feel Like a Home in the First Month
Moving into a new house is one of those monumental moments that’s both thrilling and a little overwhelming. You’ve got boxes stacked in every corner, blank walls staring back at you, and that weird echo that makes it hard to believe this is actually yours.
But don’t worry. With just a few simple moves, you can turn your new space into a cozy, welcoming home faster than you might expect. And the very best part? It’s much easier than you probably think.
We’ve pulled together 10 tips to check off your list that will help make your new house feel like a home in no time.
✅Bring in Your Favorite Things
Start by unpacking and placing the things that bring you joy right away. Maybe it’s a soft throw blanket that’s been your go-to for years, your favorite framed photos, or even that quirky mug you always reach for in the morning.
These familiar touches work magic to soften the newness and create a comforting, “I’ve been here a while” type of vibe. You don’t have to unpack every box in one day — just start with a handful of meaningful pieces that remind you of home and yourself.
✅Set the Mood with Scent
Smell is incredibly powerful, and the perfect way to trigger that “homey” and comfortable feeling. Lighting a candle with a scent you love, or simmering something warm and inviting on the stove (think cinnamon sticks, vanilla pods, or citrus peels), can literally transform a new house into a cozy space that feels familiar.
If you’re not into candles, a bouquet of fresh flowers or essential oils work just as well. Try to pick scents that remind you of happy memories or just make you feel relaxed. Light your candle or simmer your potpourri regularly to create a consistent, welcoming aroma in the air.
✅Unpack the Essentials First
Unpacking everything at once can feel impossible (because it usually is). Instead, focus on getting your essentials ready: make your bed with your favorite sheets and pillows, organize the kitchen so it’s easy to cook or grab snacks, and create a comfy spot to relax.
Having these basics settled helps you feel grounded even if the rest of your belongings are still jammed in boxes, waiting to be unpacked. That first night’s sleep in your new bed or the first morning coffee in your new kitchen can work wonders.
✅Make it Yours
Start personalizing your space by hanging art or photos on the walls, rearranging furniture to fit your lifestyle, and bringing in plants to add life and color.
If you’re renting or don’t want to put holes in the walls, try removable hooks or leaning framed art against shelves and mantels. Plants like snake plants, pothos, or succulents are also super easy to care for and instantly make a space feel fresh.
✅Soft Lighting is Key
Harsh overhead lights are not only incredibly annoying, they can make any room feel cold and unwelcoming. Swap them out for some warm lamps, string lights, or even candles to create a cozy atmosphere.
You can even invest in a couple of dimmable lamps or smart bulbs to adjust the lighting to your mood or the time of day. For outdoor spaces, battery-operated lanterns or fairy lights can also help to turn patios into chic, magical little retreats.
✅Invite People Over
Ok, seems like a simple one, right? But honestly, there’s no faster way to make a space feel like home than by sharing it with people you love. And it absolutely doesn’t have to be a big event — even a quick coffee or casual dinner can help to create awesome memories and good energy.
Hosting also gives you a chance to see how your space works in real life and identify any tweaks you might want to make. Bonus: Hello, host gift! Your friends and family will typically bring snacks, flowers, or homemade desserts which, let’s be honest, never hurts.
✅Explore Your Neighborhood
Your home is way more than just the walls that surround you. It's the community, your surroundings, and the environment nearby, too. Take walks around your new neighborhood to find your favorite coffee shops, parks, grocery stores, or little hidden gems.
Say hi to neighbors or join local social media groups to learn about events and best spots. Feeling connected to your surroundings helps your home feel more familiar and welcoming faster.
✅Stay Organized (But Flexible)
You don’t need to have every drawer and closet perfectly sorted right away. Start with a simple organizational system and adjust as you go.
Try to keep clutter to a minimum so your space feels open and calm, but don’t stress about perfection. As you live in your space, you’ll learn what works best for you, and you can adjust as you need to later.
✅Make Space for Your Pets
If you have fur babies, set up their favorite spots early. Having their beds, toys, and water bowls in places they like will make them feel comfortable. And guess what? That comfort will automatically translate to your overall feeling of home.
Seeing your pets happy and relaxed helps fill the space with warmth and life.
✅Give it Time
Remember, home isn’t something you get overnight. A comfy, cozy environment is built with time, memories, and little personal touches.
Add new elements as you go: a new pillow here, a piece of art there, or even fresh flowers on the table. Be patient with yourself and your space. Soon enough, you’ll wonder how you ever lived anywhere else.
Whether it’s a huge mansion or a cozy cottage, your new house can only truly be a home with you. It’s the way you throw your keys on the counter, the scent of your favorite candle, the sound of your laughter filling the rooms. Moving can feel like a lot, but these 10 tips are here to make the process a little easier and a lot more enjoyable. Take your time, go at your own pace, and have fun making it yours.