6 Smart Ways to Prepare Your House for Vacation

Are you planning to go on a vacation soon? While rejuvenating on a vacation is a great idea, coming back to a burglarized home is not something you want to face. While you have packed well for vacation, is your house vacation ready?

Home technology has stepped up its pace with programmable thermostats that you can set for vacation mode, but are you still wondering what you should do to get your house in shape for your absence? Discover the following six smart ways you can prep your house before you go on vacation.   

Maintain the Garden and Mow the Grass

 

If you clean the pool, mow the grass, and keep the garden tidy, you’ll have fewer chances for intruders to think that the house is empty. You don’t essentially need a professional service. Consider hiring a teenager from the neighborhood to keep the lawn tidy, keep doorways and windows free of overgrown plants, and look out for anything unusual. 

Stop Check-Ins on Social Media

Foolproof leads for burglars that signal no one is home is your family members checking in on social media from their vacation spot. Avoid announcing that you’re going to be away from home and only tell individuals you trust. 

Install Timers on Your Electronics

A house left dark for a week is a clear signal that nobody is home. Having timers installed on your electronics can help you schedule the lights or television to turn on for fixed hours so that passersby believe that you’re still home. By doing so, you’ll reduce the risk of your house being looted.

Hire a House Sitter

If possible, try to have a friend, acquaintance, or a family member stay around while you’re out. A house sitter can not only keep the burglars out, but also be at your home to water your plants, dispose your trash, and keep your house clean before your return. Calling a sitter from an agency may be expensive, but you could surprise a friend with gifts from the vacation as a thank-you acknowledgment.

Stop Mail and Newspaper Delivery

A pile of mail and newspapers at a home needs no explanation that its residents are vacationing. Request for no newspapers and mail to be delivered while you’re away. Ask a neighbor or friend to check for fliers, packages, and restaurant menus to avoid mail pileups.

Get Smart Home Security and Lock Up Valuables

Keep your valuables locked up in a safe or have a friend care for them. Alternatively, you can opt for some do-it-yourself home monitoring systems with add-on cameras, smart locks, and sensors. These devices will report to you through a smartphone app of any problems such as flooding issues or open doors and gates. You can also have a video doorbell and garage door controls for better security.

While you’ve got your personal travel insurance and have planned for your own safety on your vacation, taking the precautionary steps above will secure your home’s safety while you’re away.