What are the first 4 things to do after you receive the keys to your new home?

1. Change out all smoke detector batteries.  If the smoke detectors are 10 years old or older, change out the units themselves. The batteries should be changed out every 6 months, so an easy way to remember to do so is to use Daylight Savings time - change the batteries every time you reset your clocks!

2. Replace the air filters.  Replacing the air filter in your home is just like changing the oil in your car; it’s one of the best things you can do to reduce maintenance and failure issues for your HVAC. With regard to the quality of the air filter you purchase, don’t waste your money buying a cheap air filter. They’re only marginally better than having no filter installed at all. You will never regret buying a decent quality air filter. The Home Depot and Lowe’s carry a large selection of sizes and generally will have what you need.

3. Change the locks and codes.  It’s always a good idea to change all locks upon taking possession of your new property. Remember to obtain master alarm codes from the seller and if the front door has a programmable lock, make sure it is changed to a number unique to you. The garage door key pad code should also be changed, as well as the code for the hand-held remotes. Most keyless exterior key pads for garage overhead doors will have the procedure for re-programming the combination inside the cover of the key pad. Any "smart devices" that you inherit with the property will need to be secured as well.

4. Verify the settings on your irrigation system control panel.  It is very important that you review the settings on your panel to ensure they are correct. You can be fined by the SNWA (Southern Nevada Water Authority) for watering on days or at times when it is not allowed, as there are specific days and times when you should be watering, and specific days and times when you’re not allowed to be watering. The Las Vegas Valley Water District (LVVWD) posts all of the required schedules on their website www.lvvwd.com. Your settings will need to be changed seasonally per your LVVWD watering schedule.

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