Home vs House: 5 ways to make your house a home

As a military family, searching for houses online or in person, hoping to find the one that will call out to you as your next home, can feel nerve-wracking. MilHousing Network can help you find a home with one of their many realtors and online resources. Read on for five ways to make your new house feel like your home once you find a place you love. 

Put up Pictures

Once your household goods have arrived and the unpacking has begun, you may wonder what should happen first. Hanging up your pictures makes a place feel yours, whether a 2×3 ft. framed wedding photo or a gallery board of vacation memories. Looking back on good times will only imbue your house with joy and gratitude. 

Bring in your Style

New living spaces can have a wide variety of baselines, from comfy carpet and modern fixtures to faded tan walls and floor vinyl from the ’90s. Remember, at first glance, you see the building’s bones, not its soul. You bring the heart, so spread your colors and energy. Love bold prints? Find a tapestry to hang up. Are you feeling more hygge? Get soft blankets to create a cozy couch. Find a fun table cloth, place plants on shelves, or hang your favorite art on the walls! There are many ways to add flair, and if you feel stuck, Pinterest has a wealth of inspiration at the ready. 

Claim your Space

Depending on the age of the building, it may not feel ‘yours’ yet. Some people like to clear their new home of past energy through prayers, smudging, good washing of the walls, ringing bells, or incense. Another idea is to go through each room and share your dreams about what you want this new residence to be like for you and how you see yourselves growing in this space. Imagination can be powerful, especially when settling in and deciding what goes where. 

Smells like Home

Although bleach can be good for removing stains and move-out cleaning, it’s not a comforting, homey scent. There are so many ways to make your new abode smell delightful. Incense (find my favorite brand here) can linger for hours for a low price, and with essential oils, you can create scent blends. Other options are candles, wax warmers, and even going old-school with a simmer pot.

Cultivate Friendships

A new home, to me, doesn’t feel real until I host others inside it. Invite a few new friends into your home for game night, Quelf is a hilarious game if you are willing to look silly, and Unstable Unicorns is a family-friendly game anyone can play. Monopoly is heartily discouraged when trying to make new friends. Make a batch of soup, and grab some sodas. Don’t put pressure on yourself to have a perfect gathering place; the best memories are when people are present in the moment with each other. 

Let us know in the comments below what your top tips are to turn your house into a home below! Contact us at MilHousing Network to buy or sell your next home and let us help you find a place you love that feels like home. 

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