4 Personalization Upgrades First-Time Homebuyers Prioritize After Buying

Upon moving in, many first-time homebuyers are excited to make their new home their own. However, first-time homebuying often comes with a tighter budget, requiring them to pick and choose how they want to personalize. 

Here are four personalization upgrades that first-time homebuyers are eager to make, according to Angela Nuessle, national vice president of interior design at PulteGroup, per Realtor.com. 

1. Upgraded Cabinets 

“Cabinets are typically the item people are most excited about,” says Nuessle. “They really set the tone for the color palette and play a big role in the style of a home.”  

Trending cabinet choices include two-tone color schemes, dark and sophisticated hues, white oak, nature-inspired palettes, retro shades, metallic accents and statement colors, according to Better Homes & Gardens. 

2. Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring 

Nuessle notes that LVP flooring is prized for its durability, modern look and low maintenance. It’s also waterproof, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms and basements, and easy to clean. 

For first-time buyers on a budget, LVP flooring can be a more affordable and practical option than traditional wood flooring while still offering an aesthetically pleasing appearance. LVP flooring also comes in a wide variety of colors and styles. 

3. Entry-Level Quartz Countertops 

Entry-level quartz countertops can add polish to kitchens and bathrooms without the premium price tag, says Nuessle.  

“Entry-level quartz, sometimes referred to as commercial or builders’ grade, offers affordability without compromising the inherent benefits of quartz,” says Signature Marble & Granite. “These countertops typically have a more uniform appearance with fewer variations in color and pattern. Although they may lack the unique characteristics of higher-grade quartz, they still provide a durable and attractive option for those on a tighter budget.” 

4. Two-Tone Wall Paint 

The last popular personalization upgrade Nuessle shares is stylish two-tone wall paint, which is often overlooked until buyers see it in a model home. 

Two-tone walls can add visual interest to a room and even make it appear taller or wider. Creating contrast using a darker shade at the bottom and a lighter shade on top can be especially effective in achieving this illusion. Plus, for first-time buyers on a tighter budget, this upgrade can be an easily manageable DIY project using careful measurements and painter’s tape.