Moving into a new home can quickly turn into an expensive exercise, but a little planning can help households avoid buying unnecessary furniture and appliances while ensuring the essentials are covered first.

Whether moving into a first home, rental property or downsizing, the starting point should be a room-by-room list divided into immediate needs and purchases that can wait. Beds, basic cookware, a refrigerator, cleaning equipment, lighting and window coverings may take priority, while decorative furniture and extra appliances can often be added gradually.

Budgeting for those purchases is important. Financial advisers urge prospective homeowners to allow for furniture, whitegoods and other household items on top of the considerable upfront and ongoing costs of buying a property.

Before ordering large furniture, measure rooms, doorways, hallways and staircases, and check where power points and windows are located. A bargain lounge or dining table can become an expensive mistake if it cannot fit through the front door.

Energy costs should also influence appliance choices. The Australian Government’s energy.gov.au says appliances account for about 30 per cent of household energy use and recommends comparing Energy Rating Labels when purchasing products. More stars indicate greater energy efficiency compared with similar-sized models, while the label also estimates annual electricity consumption.

For washing machines and dishwashers, shoppers can also compare Water Rating Labels. Recent government advice earlier this year recommended considering both energy and water consumption because major appliances can remain in a household for many years.

Safety deserves a place on the shopping list. Since May last year, certain freestanding furniture sold in Australia has been subject to mandatory toppling-warning requirements. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission advises buyers to choose bookcases, drawers, wardrobes and entertainment units that can be securely anchored to a wall or floor.

New occupants should also check smoke alarms before settling in. Fire and Rescue NSW says every NSW home must have at least one working smoke alarm on each level and recommends additional interconnected alarms in bedrooms and living areas.

Finally, not everything needs to be new. ABC News has reported growing interest in second-hand marketplaces and local “buy nothing” groups, which can provide furniture and household goods at little or no cost.

The best approach is to buy the necessities first, live in the space for a while, and let the remaining shopping list develop around how the home is actually used.