Please, please, don't use poison bait. If that rat is picked up by any other creature, especially owls, then it does not help the eco-system. Actually, great horned owls are one of the few predators that can attack a skunk successfully. The lack of predator population for rodents is a big issue.
Yes, for rodents, make sure there are no debris piles anywhere - attic, crawl space, outside. Seal off the structures as best you can. Actually,
@ctuser1 I think it is worth it to hire a "professional" just to see how they look at every single hole and crack as a possible entrance point. We had a guy come out for free because he was hired by our previous owner and gave him a 3-year transferable warranty. It was very interesting to see him work.
In terms of your neighbors, yes, the pile and food source won't help. Once you seal off the house properly you might just leave them alone and let nature take its course but at least you are giving them no reason to investigate your property. The predators might take care of the population for you.
Again, just please, do not use poison.