Security is a critical feature of any home, giving you peace of mind and lower insurance premiums. It’s also an important asset when the time comes to sell your property.
There are many subtle strategies you can use to ensure the safety and security of your home without having to put bars on every window and give buyers the impression they’re in a dangerous neighborhood.
Below are some ideas to help you review your own home security arrangement, regardless of whether you intend to sell your home in the near future or not.
Light it up
Nothing deters an opportunist burglar more than motion-sensitive security lighting. Talk to an electrician about the best position for your lights and sensor for the most effective coverage. Be mindful of your neighbors. No one wants a spotlight through their bedroom window.
Say cheese
Security cameras are dropping in price all the time. Their battery-power technology has become so effective that it takes no prior knowledge to install them. If you need mains power, call an electrician. Your cameras should connect to the internet, capturing footage and allowing you to access their vision 24/7 on your phone or computer.
Review locks
Over time, it’s easy to lose keys, especially to window locks, but these are inexpensive to replace and if you are selling, you’re expected to produce keys to all the locks. Make sure you lock the garden shed, where you might store expensive tools, and don’t leave your ladder outside, as that’s just helping any criminals get access to your home.
Secret code
If you want to enhance security and make an impression with prospective buyers, a smart lock on your front door is a good investment. These require a special PIN code, or they can be opened via a Bluetooth application or an old-school fashioned key!
Dead bolts
Dead bolts on your doors will make it almost impossible for burglars to remove bulky items, such as a television. When you’re at home, leave the key in the lock. It’s a very bad idea to dead-bolt yourself inside a house at night and remove the key in case of fire or an emergency.
Safety first
It’s amazing how many folks leave a front door key under a flower pot or stone in case a family member finds themselves locked out. Seriously… you might as well leave the place unlocked. Instead, invest a few bucks in a key storage safe that can only be unlocked with a PIN or via Bluetooth with your phone.