The ULTIMATE New Michigan Home Grocery List

you did it — you finally got your move-in date! Few feelings in life compare to knowing the keys to your new home are officially yours. After surviving this wild housing market, you’re ready to think about furniture, TV sizes, and how many trips to HomeGoods you can justify.

But before you start draining your bank account on decorations and décor, let’s take a step back. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to buy for your new home — and more importantly, when to buy it — so you can set yourself up for success without unnecessary stress or overspending.

1. Start Preparing 1–2 Months Before Move-In

Most new homeowners assume the process starts when they get the keys — but it really starts a month or two earlier. Packing everything up last minute and hoping it’ll all make sense later is a recipe for stress.

Before moving day, contact your utility and service providers early. Getting quotes and setting up accounts ahead of time can save you hundreds and eliminate last-minute headaches.

Here’s a list to start with:

Water and sewage provider
Gas and electric companies
Internet and cable provider
Waste management service
Home and auto insurance provider
Lawn care or snow removal company
Home security or smart home service
Local bank or credit union
Your employer (update your address)

Pro tip: Take a couple of hours to compare quotes for your utilities and insurance. The rates can vary widely, and doing this early gives you time to shop smart instead of rushing.

2. Move-In Day Essentials: What to Do Before Unpacking

The moment you unlock the door and step into your new home, your brain goes into overdrive — mentally listing everything you “need.”

Before you start buying bean bag chairs and bar carts, focus on the must-dos that protect your safety and your wallet.

Safety First

Locate your main water shutoff valve, circuit breaker, gas shutoff, sump pump, septic or sewer line, and furnace filter size.
Replace or rekey all door locks and garage codes. You never know who still has a copy of the old keys.
Check all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. Replace if expired or unresponsive (they typically last about 10 years).
Get an up-to-date fire extinguisher for your kitchen and/or fireplace area.
Buy a first aid kit. You’ll thank yourself the first time you slice a finger unpacking.

Secure Your Important Documents

Pick up a fireproof lockbox or safe for documents like birth certificates, passports, home closing paperwork, and vehicle titles. It’s peace of mind that’s absolutely worth the cost.

3. Cleaning Supplies You’ll Actually Use

There’s one universal truth about moving: the first few days will be messy. Before furniture fills every corner, do a deep clean. Even if the home looks spotless, you’ll want to start fresh.

Stock up on cleaning essentials:

Vacuum
Broom and dustpan
Paper towels and cleaning rags
Trash bags
Swiffer or duster
Disinfectant wipes
Glass cleaner
All-purpose cleaner

If your budget’s tight, stick to the basics first — you’ll naturally expand your collection over time.

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4. Kitchen Must-Haves (for Real People, Not Pinterest)

It’s easy to get lost in Pinterest boards and Target aisles, but your kitchen doesn’t need to look like a cooking show to function.

If you’re starting from scratch, head to Dollar General or Dollar Tree for the basics. You can grab:

Plates, bowls, cups, and mugs
Towels and oven mitts
Silverware
Measuring cups and spoons
Tupperware containers
Drying rack and dish soap
Spices and utensils

Spend a little more on quality pans and silverware — cheap ones break, rust, or taste metallic fast. Invest once, and you’ll save money long-term.

5. Living Room and Dining Room Basics

Furniture doesn’t have to be fancy to be functional. Start small, and upgrade later.

Essentials:

Dining table and chairs (check Facebook Marketplace or OfferUp for deals)
Couch or loveseat
Coffee table or side tables
Blankets and throw pillows
TV stand or wall mount

If you’re not finding what you like yet, grab a few folding TV trays to hold you over. Your wallet (and patience) will thank you.

6. Bedroom Setup

When you first move in, you’ll be tempted to turn your bedroom into a mini living room with a TV, sound system, and décor galore. Slow down — you’ve got an entire house now.

Start with:

Mattress and bed frame
Dresser or storage unit
Sheets, pillows, and bedding
Curtains or blinds

Once the essentials are covered, add personality gradually. You don’t have to buy your dream room all at once.

7. Bathroom Essentials You’ll Forget Until It’s Too Late

There’s something about bathrooms that new homeowners overlook — until you realize you don’t have a shower curtain or toilet brush.

Bathroom must-haves:

Shower curtain and liner
Towels and washcloths
Bath mat
Toiletries (soap, shampoo, etc.)
Toilet paper and plunger
Garbage can
Cleaning brush
First aid kit

8. Outdoor and Garage Essentials

Depending on your setup, you might need outdoor tools sooner than you think.

Start with the basics:

Lawn mower
Rake and shovel
Weed whacker
Garden hose
Snow shovel or snowblower
Tool kit
Outdoor broom

Most other outdoor tools can wait until you settle in and understand your yard’s needs.

9. Smart Home Upgrades (Optional but Worth It)

If you’re tech-savvy or security-conscious, consider adding:

A Ring Doorbell or smart security camera
A smart thermostat (huge energy savings)
Motion-sensing lights for walkways or garages

These aren’t must-haves on day one, but they’re smart investments over time.

10. Budget Reminder: The Spending Doesn’t End at Closing

Most buyers focus so much on their down payment and closing costs that they forget about post-closing expenses — furniture, supplies, décor, and utility deposits.

The key is pacing yourself. Prioritize essentials first, and let your home evolve as you live in it.

Download My Free “New Home Essentials Checklist”

To make your move even smoother, I’ve put together a New Home Grocery List — a complete breakdown of every item you’ll need, room by room, to keep you organized and under budget.

Download it here

Final Thoughts

Moving into a new home is one of life’s greatest milestones — but it’s also one of the most expensive and overwhelming. Take it slow, stick to the essentials, and make smart purchases that truly improve your daily life.

Before long, your house won’t just look like home — it’ll feel like it too.

Thinking About Buying or Selling in Michigan?

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, relocating, or upgrading to your forever home, I help people move to, from, and within the state of Michigan — and I love it.

Contact me today to start your next move the right way.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving Into a New Home in Michigan

What should I buy first when moving into a new home?

Start with safety and essentials: new locks, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, a fire extinguisher, cleaning supplies, and basic furniture. Once those are covered, move on to kitchenware, tools, and décor.

How do I save money when furnishing my first home in Michigan?

Shop secondhand using Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, or local thrift stores. Many Michigan homeowners sell lightly used furniture and appliances for a fraction of retail prices. Start with essentials and upgrade slowly.

When should I set up utilities before moving in?

Ideally 2–4 weeks before your move-in date. Contact your local Michigan utility providers early to avoid activation delays and to compare rates between companies.

What tools and equipment do I need for a Michigan home?

A lawn mower, shovel, snow blower, rake, and basic tool kit are must-haves. Michigan’s four seasons require you to be prepared for both heavy snow and warm-weather yard maintenance.

What smart home upgrades are worth it for Michigan homeowners?

A smart thermostat can help reduce heating costs during cold Michigan winters. Ring doorbells, motion-sensing lights, and smart locks also add convenience and peace of mind.