1. File all your paperwork from the house purchase in a safe place. Consider putting the title in a watertight/fireproof safe.

2. Reread all your home insurance papers and make sure that it covers everything you need it to - flood? earthquake? value of home contents?

3. Register your kids at the local school. Take a tour and introduce yourself to their teachers.

4. Introduce yourself to your neighbors. Start the relationship off on the right foot - bring brownies or a bottle of wine.

5. Create a house folder to file notes & receipts for any major maintenance or upgrades. This will help you during tax time or when you're selling your home.

6. Check out www.irs.gov to find what the federal government says about being a homeowner.

7. Find out where your nearest emergency room or 24-hour clinic is located. Drive there so you know the way.

8. Make sure all your utilities and other services have the correct information & rates on them.

9. Update your driver's license & vehicle registration.

10. Find a new doctor, dentist, eye doctor and other services that you'll want to have a relationship with before an emergency happens.