Owning a home comes with financial responsibilities and a multitude of tasks that keep your home and property safe. At Fisher Nicholson Realty, our real estate agents can provide professional guidance and advice to put you on the path to successful homeownership.

If you love the beauty of nature, many Klamath Falls homes for sale offer breathtaking views, large yards, and rustic appeal. While some come with upgraded features, others may benefit from home improvements ideas. As a new homeowner, creating an important to-do list will help you improve home safety and security, reduce maintenance, and save energy.

1. Change the Locks
   When you move into a new home, changing the locks should be a priority. It's possible that previous owners, property workers, and others may have keys to the house. You can purchase new locksets with handles, locks, and keys from any home improvement store.
   
   
2. Hide Extra Keys
   Hide one or two extra keys in a lockbox or safe location near the house. Avoid hiding keys in places like under doormats, under flower pots or planters, and above entrances. These are the first places thieves and burglars will look.
   
   
3. Reset Key Codes
   For extra security, reset the key codes for entrance doors, garage doors, garage door openers, entry gates, etc. The former owner may have given key codes to family members, neighbors, and maintenance workers for added convenience.
   
   
4. Check Security Lighting
   If the home and property have motion lights, check to make sure all lights have working bulbs, unless they are solar fixtures. If there are no outdoor security lights, consider installing them for added safety and security after dark.
   
   
5. Install Fire Extinguishers and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
   Purchase a fire extinguisher for each floor in the house and make sure it's mounted in an accessible area on each floor. Test all fire and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they're working properly. If the house doesn't have them, purchase and install them right away.
   
   
6. Inspect the Home
   Although you likely had a home inspection and a final walk-through with your agent, an inspection after you move in may turn up red flags. If you notice running toilets, water leaks or water damage under sinks, or signs of mold and mildew, fix the problems right away.
   
   
7. Check the Hot Water Heater
   As soon as you move in, check the hot water heater for leaks and wrap exposed pipes in basements and garages with insulation to retain more heat. Lowering the temperature on your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit will save you money on heating bills.
   
   
8. Clean Air Vents and Replace Filters
   Heating and air conditioning vents should be thoroughly cleaned with a vacuum cleaner or shop vac to remove dirt, dust, and debris. To ensure proper airflow into rooms, clean your air vents, don't block them with furniture or other items, and regularly replace your air filters.
   
   
9. Install a Programmable Thermostat
   A programmable thermostat can significantly reduce your home heating and cooling costs and save energy. It's easy to program automatic temperature increases and decreases to fit your daily schedule. You may not notice the changes, but your utility bills will reflect the savings.
   
   
10. Choose Energy-Efficient Equipment
    If you need to upgrade kitchen appliances, laundry appliances, or heating and air conditioning equipment, opt for energy-efficient items, even if they cost more upfront. Energy-efficient appliances and lighting will reduce electric and gas bills and save energy.

If you're considering buying or selling a home, contact us for more information and pricing on available properties in the area.