I Just Bought a House in State College—Now What? Your First-Year Homeowner Checklist

Congratulations! You’ve officially joined the ranks of homeowners in State College—a beautiful, bustling college town with four seasons, historic charm, and friendly neighborhoods. Whether you’ve snagged a cozy rancher near Lemont or a newer build on the edge of town, one thing’s for sure: owning a home comes with responsibilities.

If you’re wondering what you should tackle first, you’re not alone. The first year of homeownership can feel overwhelming. To help you settle in with confidence, we’ve put together a practical, region-specific checklist of everything you should do in your first 12 months—especially when it comes to protecting your biggest investment: your roof.

1. Schedule a Roof Inspection (Seriously, Do This First)

Let’s be real—your roof is the unsung hero of your home. It protects your house from rain, wind, snow, and ice… but most people don’t think about it until there’s a leak.

In State College, where winters are cold and snowy and summers can bring sudden storms, having your roof checked by a local pro is non-negotiable.

What to look for:

• Missing, curling, or cracked shingles
• Soft spots or sagging areas
• Gutter damage or clogs
• Signs of leaks in the attic

At Stoltzfus Bros., we offer full roof inspections and can quickly assess whether your Owens Corning shingles are in good shape—or if repairs or upgrades are needed. We’re proud to be State College’s go-to roofing team for new and seasoned homeowners.

Pro tip: Even if the previous owners claimed the roof was “new,” it pays to get an expert opinion. A small problem now can save you thousands later.

2. Check Your Attic for Ventilation & Insulation Issues

Your attic plays a huge role in your home’s energy efficiency and comfort. Poor ventilation can lead to mold, ice dams, and even premature roof failure—all invisible problems until they become expensive ones.

Here’s what to check:

• Is your attic stuffy and humid, even in winter?
• Do you see mold or mildew around the rafters or insulation?
• Can you feel drafts in upstairs rooms?

Stoltzfus Bros. can assess ventilation as part of your roof inspection and recommend simple upgrades that make a big difference. Proper airflow can extend the life of your roof and lower your energy bills.

3. Book an HVAC Inspection & Tune-Up

Pennsylvania weather demands a well-functioning HVAC system. After a long winter (or before your first full one), you’ll want to make sure your heating and cooling systems are running safely and efficiently.

First-year musts:

• Clean or replace air filters
• Check ductwork for leaks
• Schedule a professional maintenance visit (spring for A/C, fall for heating)

Ask your inspector if your HVAC system is sized properly for your home and what kind of lifespan you can expect. Local companies like Advanced Heating & Air Conditioning or Deiter Bros. offer great service in the State College area.

4. Check Drainage & Gutter Health

Poor drainage is a silent home destroyer. Water pooling around your foundation can lead to basement leaks, mold, and structural issues.

First steps:

• Clean out gutters and downspouts
• Make sure downspouts drain away from your foundation
• Inspect grading around your home—does water run away or toward your house?

Stoltzfus Bros. can also evaluate your gutter system while inspecting your roof. We’ll let you know if repairs or upgrades are needed to keep your home dry and protected year-round.

5. Walk Your Property & Learn the Landscape

Take time to understand your yard, trees, and any slopes that affect drainage and exposure. Check fences, decks, porches, and exterior walkways for signs of rot, cracks, or pest damage.

Things to do early on:

• Trim back any overhanging tree limbs (especially near the roof!)
• Check for low spots in your yard that collect water
• Take note of sun vs. shade—this will help with future gardening or landscaping plans

If you need help getting your yard in shape, local landscapers like Green Horizon Landscaping or Nature’s Cover are trusted names in the area.

6. Test Electrical & Plumbing Systems

Electrical and plumbing issues can lurk behind the scenes in even the most charming homes. Don’t wait until something breaks—get ahead of it.

Your checklist:

• Test GFCI outlets (especially in kitchens and bathrooms)
• Check for leaky faucets or slow drains
• Know where your main water shut-off valve is
• Schedule a plumbing/electrical inspection if your home is older

Reliable local contractors like Miller Electric or K.C. Plumbing can provide fast, professional service if anything seems off.

7. Make a Maintenance Calendar

Owning a home is a long game, and staying on top of small tasks throughout the year is key. Create a digital calendar with seasonal to-dos and reminders.

Here’s a quick sample:

• Spring: Roof inspection, gutter cleaning, A/C tune-up
• Summer: Exterior paint check, window caulking, tree trimming
• Fall: Furnace check, attic inspection, gutter cleaning (again!)
• Winter: Check for ice dams, monitor indoor humidity, inspect insulation

8. Build Your Local Homeowner Team

One of the best moves you can make as a new homeowner? Start building relationships with trusted local service providers before something goes wrong. Whether it’s a burst pipe or a sudden storm, you’ll know who to call.

Put Stoltzfus Bros. Construction at the top of that list—we’re here to support you with honest advice, long-lasting Owens Corning materials, and a quality reputation.

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This

Buying a home is a big milestone—and taking care of it doesn’t have to be stressful. By staying proactive, learning the ropes, and calling in the right pros when you need help, you’ll set yourself up for a smooth first year and many happy years.

If your roof is at the top of your list (and it should be), give Stoltzfus Bros. a call. We proudly serve the State College area with premium craftsmanship, energy-efficient options, and trusted roofing expertise.