As a homeowner, ensuring the safety and security of your property is of utmost importance. This holds especially true for sellers who open their doors to the public for showings. Unfortunately, some common habits can inadvertently make your home a target for burglaries. In this article, we will discuss ten essential anti-burglary tips that every seller should know to safeguard their home.
Maintain Your Property
Maintaining your property is not only important for its aesthetics but also for deterring potential burglars. During the wintertime, it is crucial to keep up with routine maintenance tasks such as clearing snow and debris from walkways and removing fallen tree branches. A well-kept property signals that the home is occupied and less likely to be targeted by criminals.
Know Your Neighbors
Developing a strong relationship with your neighbors goes beyond exchanging pleasantries. Invite them over to see your home before it goes on the market, and introduce them to anyone who might be regularly stopping by, including your real estate agent. By doing so, your neighbors will be able to differentiate between authorized visitors and potential threats while you are away.
Assess Your Home’s Vulnerability
Put yourself in the shoes of a burglar and examine your home’s vulnerabilities. Walk to the curb and ask yourself, “How would I get in if I were locked out?” The first thing that comes to mind, whether it’s a window with a broken lock or a door that doesn’t shut properly, is a potential entry point for a thief. Address these issues promptly to enhance your home’s security.
Respect the Power of Lighting
Criminals prefer to operate under the cover of darkness. Installing adequate lighting around your property can serve as a deterrent. Consider investing in tools such as dusk-to-dawn adapters and motion detectors that make it easy to automate nighttime lighting. However, avoid leaving exterior lights on continuously, as it may indicate that the occupant is away for an extended period.
Use Technology to Create the Illusion of Occupancy
Smart-home technology offers various options to make your home appear occupied, even when you’re not there. From remotely controlling lighting, music, and appliances to using simple lamp timing devices, there are several ways to give the impression that someone is at home. Embracing these technologies can significantly enhance your home’s security.
Lock Your Doors (Yes, It Has to Be Said)
It may seem obvious, but many people still neglect to lock their doors. In fact, 30 percent of burglaries occur through unlocked doors or windows, according to the FBI Uniform Crime Report. Make it a habit to lock all doors before leaving your home, regardless of how safe you believe your neighborhood to be.
Reinforce Your Locks
Investing in high-quality locks is essential, but equally important is ensuring that your doors have a solid frame. Prioritize reinforcing your door jam and strike plate before considering lock upgrades. Double-cylinder deadbolts are recommended as they require a key to unlock from both inside and outside. However, it’s important to check local regulations as they may prohibit their use.
Blare the Sirens
Burglars aim to complete their mission swiftly, without attracting attention. Having an external siren, whether as part of a monitored security system or a DIY alarm, can deter criminals. If you do not have an alarm system, displaying fake security signs around your property can still serve as a deterrent.
Consider Surveillance Cameras
Surveillance cameras have become increasingly popular as a means of deterring and capturing criminals. Installing a video doorbell or other surveillance devices can provide visual evidence of any suspicious activity. In some areas, the presence of cameras alone has led to a decrease in burglary rates.
Mark Your Valuables
Protecting your valuable possessions is crucial. Consider using invisible-ink pens or engravers to mark identifying information (such as your driver’s license or state ID numbers) on items. Additionally, log serial numbers and take photographs of your belongings. Some police departments offer participation in programs like Operation Identification, which provide stickers to warn potential thieves that your items are marked.
By implementing these ten essential anti-burglary tips, sellers can significantly enhance the security of their homes. Incorporating these measures not only protects your property but also demonstrates your commitment to your clients’ well-being and peace of mind.
FAQs
Q: How can maintaining my property help prevent burglaries?
A: A well-maintained property signals that the home is occupied and less likely to be targeted by burglars.
Q: Why is it important to know your neighbors as a seller?
A: Building relationships with your neighbors allows them to identify potential threats and unauthorized individuals near your home.
Q: Can smart-home technology enhance home security?
A: Yes, smart-home technology offers various options to create the illusion of occupancy when you’re away, deterring potential burglars.
Conclusion
Protecting your home from burglaries requires a proactive approach. By following these ten anti-burglary tips, sellers can significantly reduce the risk of break-ins. Remember, prioritizing home security not only safeguards your property but also provides peace of mind for you and your clients.