It's natural to feel overjoyed at the prospect of moving into your new home. Who knows, how many bidding wars did you go through before you win your new dream house.

However, before you get too excited and call it home, make sure you tick these items off your to-do list for your safety and protection.

1. Get New Locks 

Change the locks because you have no idea who else has keys to your house. This assures that you're the only one with access. Install new deadbolts yourself for as low as $10 per lock, or hire a locksmith for $20 to $30 per lock if you supply the new locks.

2. Check for Plumbing Leaks

Before closing the deal, your home inspector should handle this for you, but double-checking is always a good idea. Check your water heater for signs of a leak and keep an eye out for dripping faucets and running toilets.

3. Steam Clean Carpets

It's best to do this prior to moving your furniture in, and you'll have a fresh start in your new house. You can hire a professional carpet cleaner for approximately $50 per room; most businesses want a minimum of about $100 before they will come out, or rent a steam cleaner for about $30 per day and do the job yourself.

4. Clean the Cabinets

Before you move in bring your dishes and bathroom supplies with you, especially if the house has been vacant. Mice and other pests are known for moving in swiftly. Wipe or if possible wash the in and out with a non-toxic cleaner, and replace the contact paper if needed.

5. Schedule a Pest Control

Get rid of mice, rats, bats, termites, roaches, and others. There are a variety of DIY pest-removal methods available, but if you need more than that, an initial visit from a pest removal agency would cost between $100 and $300, with monthly or quarterly appointments costing around $50 each.

6. Know Where's the Circuit Breaker Box

You need to do this as early as the first week you move into your new house. It's best to do this with someone so that you can check if the power goes on and off. So, in case of emergencies you know where and what to switch off. 

7. Locate and Know how to Turn Off the Main Water Valve

Basically, you want to know this for plumbing emergencies.  Try turning the knob until it’s off, then test it by turning on any faucet in the house; no water should come out. 

Moving into a new place is almost always exciting. Nevertheless, do not forget all of these things to make sure that everything is in harmony.