So you bought a home... now what?!
Updated: Aug 21, 2019
1. Change locks. Spares could be floating around anywhere. Give a spare to close friend or a lock box - not under a plant!
#2 Check the temperature.
...on your water heater, especially if you have young ones, so it won't accidentally scald. Manufacturers tend to set them high. (but the best temperature setting for hot water is 120 degrees)
#3 Clean out the dryer hose and vent yearly.
Clogged ones burn down houses. And you don't know the last time the previous homeowner did it.
#4 Store copies (the originals should be in a fireproof safe or safety deposit box) of important home documents so they're readily available. Go paper, cloud, or better, yet, both.
Lender contact information
Property survey
Inspection report
Final closing documents
Insurance documents
#5 Locate the main water shut-off valve.
Because busted pipes happen to almost every homeowner at least once. And water damage is value-busting and pricey to fix.