So, you’ve booked the trip of a lifetime. Sun-drenched beaches, bustling cityscapes, or maybe a serene mountain retreat – the excitement is building! But before you trade in your slippers for flip-flops, let’s ensure your home is safe and sound while you’re away. Below we discuss some helpful tips for securing your home before you take off to your destination.
Securing your home checklist
The “Home Alone” Check:
- Lights: Don’t leave your house shrouded in darkness. Invest in timers for indoor and outdoor lights to simulate occupancy. Consider smart bulbs for even more control from your phone.
- Mail & Newspapers: Stop mail and newspaper deliveries. A pile of newspapers on the driveway is a beacon for potential trouble.
- Garage Door: Ensure the garage door is fully closed and locked. If you have a smart garage door opener, you can even monitor and control it remotely.
- Keys: Leave a spare key with a trusted neighbor or family member, but avoid hiding keys in obvious places.
Tech Savvy Security:
- Smart Home Systems: If you have a smart home system, utilize its security features. Arm your alarm system, adjust thermostat settings, and even monitor cameras remotely.
- Unplug Electronics: Unplug or turn off non-essential electronics to conserve energy and reduce the risk of fire.
- Wifi: Consider temporarily disconnecting your home Wi-Fi network to deter potential hackers.
Curb Appeal Counts:
- Landscaping: Keep your lawn mowed and hedges trimmed. Neglected landscaping can signal an unoccupied home.
- Valuables Out of Sight: Don’t leave valuables like jewelry or electronics visible through windows.
Neighborly Love:
- Inform a Trusted Neighbor: Let a neighbor know you’ll be away and ask them to keep an eye on your property.
- Arrange for Package Pickup: If you’re expecting deliveries, arrange for a neighbor to receive them.
Peace of Mind:
- Review Your Home Insurance: Ensure your home insurance policy provides adequate coverage in case of unforeseen events.
- Arm and Advertise Your Home Security System: If you have a home security system, it is critical that you engage it while you are away when securing your home. In addition, be sure to advertise that you have a home security system by placing appropriate signage in your yard. Even if you don’t have a home security system, a simple sign indicating that you do can deter many burglars.
Summary
By taking the proper steps for securing your home, you can be sure to relax and enjoy your vacation knowing that your home is safe and secure. If you have a smart home, it is not a bad idea to turn on various lights, televisions, or even music in the home during the days and nights to give off the impression that the home is occupied. Ultimately, most home burglars prefer to target a vacant home as opposed to one that is occupied.
Are you thinking about buying or selling real estate in the South Florida area? We can help! Contact Natasha at Live South Florida Realty, Inc. today! Also, don’t forget to download the free Florida Home Search app for your smartphone or tablet.
