You’ve finally staked claim to your personal corner of the world, but as king and queen of your new castle, you are also the resident handyman, security guard, gardener, and decorator. If you are a first time homeowner, let the following tips show you how to wear all of these hats gracefully.
Faucet Leaks

Photo by Fujin via Flickr
Resource Management
To deal with bigger leaks, you need to know how to shut off the main water supply as well as the electricity. This Old House recommends looking for a metal wheel or a flat handle like a paddle when trying to shut off the main water supply. In some cases, your shut off valve may be under a manhole cover on the ground. Remember to turn off the power as well—water and live electricity are never a good combination.
Safety

Photo by BrokenSphere via Flickr
Painting
You’ve stemmed the errant leaks, installed some security, and maybe even started a garden! Focus your efforts now on aesthetics and start thinking about interior paint. Perhaps the most affordable way to make any home your own is by selecting a new paint color and giving your walls a fresh coat. Visit your local hardware store and pick up paint samples to test on small areas before committing to coating an entire wall. Colors may dry darker than they appear while wet, so give your test swatch adequate time to dry before deciding on your final color. Pay attention to the finish: do you prefer matte or high gloss, or somewhere in between?

Photo by BenSoark via Flickr