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November
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7 Tips to Protect Your Home from Theft Over the Holidays
The holidays are right around the corner, and so are the thieves just waiting for you to be away. A proactive approach to home security is the best way to protect your home and belongings. Our real estate agents offer this list of holiday home security tips.
- Don't Advertise Purchases
Boxes and bags let thieves know what you have bought and where you bought it. This seemingly innocuous trash should be broken down and disposed of within trash bins. Even better, you can break it down and take it to a recycling center. If you are shopping online, it is also a wise idea to have your packages delivered to your workplace or to pick them up from a delivery center.
- Don't Advertise Vacations Online
Wait to post your holiday photos until after you have returned. Likewise, turn off location and log-in trackers on your mobile devices. That way if you do post while on vacation, thieves monitoring your social media accounts can't see you're not home. - Install a Security System
You can monitor activity at your home with a smart home security system an internet connection. Advanced home security systems also allow you to turn the lights on/off, adjust camera angles, monitor the thermostat, and much more. Security systems are a wise investment in safety that reduces your monthly homeowner's insurance premiums. In many cases, you will recoup the cost in as little as a year. Many Augusta homes for sale have smart home security systems that also add to the resale value of the property. - Deputize the Neighbors
Neighbors are often the best form of defense against thieves. They know who "belongs" in the neighborhood and what cars look out of place. Your neighbors can spot people lurking and alert authorities when something doesn't feel or look right. When your neighbors go on vacation, you can return the favor by helping to keep watch over their property. - Obstruct the View
Thick curtains, blinds, and shutters limit the view inside your home. By limiting the view, thieves won't be able to see the televisions, artwork, jewelry, and other valuables. You should also make sure that your Christmas tree and the presents beneath it are not visible from the street. - Clear Away Hiding Spaces
Place piles of wood for the fireplace far away from the home. Similarly, remove heaps of leaves and other yard debris so that thieves can't hide behind them. As in the summer months, landscaping next to the home should be neatly trimmed. Further, any holiday yard decorations should be small enough that they can't provide cover for a thief attempting to sneak inside.
- Check Every Lock Carefully
Make sure locks on doors, windows, and sliding glass doors are working properly. In addition to your high tech smart home security system, deploy some low-tech solutions. Tried and trusted methods of boosting security include broom handles in the tracks of windows and sliding doors, chains on the door, and door stops.
Our real estate agents at Sprague and Curtis Real Estate wish you a happy and safe holiday season. If a new home is what you've asked for, contact us to discover more about the Augusta area homes for sale this holiday season.