Key Insights

• You don’t have to spend a lot to secure your home while you’re away
• A few proactive steps can go a long way towards preventing unwanted visitors
• Building community with neighbors can be a great way to detect suspicious activity

Whether you’ve got a week-long vacay on the books or just a weekend getaway, you’ll want to take precautions to make sure your home is safe and secure while you’re out and about. Here are some practical and affordable ways to protect your property while you’re away.

1. Fake being home

Making it look like you’re home is the best way to deter burglars. With smart plugs, timers and lights, it’s easier than ever to make your home appear occupied by turning lights and TVs on at different times throughout the day and night. Consider leaving your blinds or curtains at least partially open (your plants will also thank you) to give a natural, lived-in look. Better yet, ask a neighbor to park in your driveway and move your garbage bins.

2. Lock all the entries

While it may seem obvious, make sure to double-check every possible point of entry to your home before you head out. This includes front and side doors, sliding doors, garage doors and windows. Engage locks and deadbolts, and consider reinforcing door frames with heavy-duty deadbolts and strike plates for added security. If you have a smart lock, you can often set alerts for any unusual activity.

3. Light up the exterior

Making it difficult for unwanted visitors to lurk in the shadows is one of the simplest ways to protect your home. By installing motion-activated floodlights or solar lights near entryways and walkways, you’ll not only create greater personal convenience and safety, but you’ll also protect your home. Make sure to trim bushes and trees near windows, too.

4. Put in a home security system

Whether you choose to install a professionally-monitored security system or go the DIY smart-home route, home security is more accessible and affordable than ever. Many DIY options send alerts directly to your phone and come with cameras that monitor and record activity. Visible cameras and “protected by…” yard signs can also act as deterrents.

5. Keep your adventures private

While you might be tempted to share photos and details about your adventures with friends and followers online, it’s best if you save them until you get home. You don’t want to inadvertently advertise an empty house. Similarly, don’t advertise your location in real time.

6. Make arrangements for packages and mail

Packages piling up in the mailbox or on the front steps are a sure signal nobody’s home. Make sure to use the USPS Hold Mail Service, reschedule or reroute expected deliveries, or ask a neighbor to collect your mail and bring packages inside.

7. Safely store your valuables

Always store passports, jewelry, cash and documents in a fireproof, bolted safe to keep them safe from environmental exposure and burglary. In the unfortunate event that someone gains entry into your home, keeping your most valuable belongings out of predictable locations like closets and drawers is important.

8. Ask a neighbor for help

If you have trusted neighbors, request that they look in on your property while you’re away. Ask them to keep an eye out for unusual activity, water plants, bring in trash bins and packages, and monitor the home for any issues with your HVAC or water while you’re gone. Then offer to return the favor the next time they travel!

9. Keep your codes close

Discourage your family members from sharing your door and garage codes with others, and change them often. If you have somebody taking care of things while you’re away, give them a temporary code. Never share codes with service people, and change locks if keys go missing.

10. Don’t overshare when it comes to purchases

Try to keep announcements of big purchases and vacations off social media. If that proves impossible, adjust your privacy settings to include only trusted friends and family. Remember not to post on pages that could advertise your absence, like pet-sitting agencies, hotel chains or airline and cruise line pages.

Hoping to make a move?

Reach out today to determine your home’s value or start your search for a new abode, complete with smart lighting and home security.