Messages about security are found everywhere. Google accounts encourage us to turn on two-factor authentication. Banks remind us to guard against sharing your PIN number with others. News media reminds us to guard against clicking links in spam emails. It’s natural to also think about home security. Are you doing all you can around your home to practice good home security?
Check out these suggestions to gauge how well you’re doing and where you may want to do things differently.
It makes sense to have locks installed on your windows and doors plus get in the habit of using these locks. Did you know sliding doors on patios are more vulnerable than a front door? Patio and deck doors can be reinforced with a blocking bar positioned in the door’s track to prevent opening. Similar blocking bars are available in sizes for most windows.
If you have small children in the household, adding window stops is an effective way to add reinforcements to prevent a curious child from raising a window.
To add another layer of protector to your front door install deadbolt protection, available at most hardware stores. This type of protector slides a lock over your deadbolt to prevent it from turning.
While it may seem efficient to place a spare key under a flower pot, above the door frame, or hidden in a fake rock, avoid doing this. Thieves know to look for hidden keys. A better way is to install a keypad door lock or leave your spare key with a trusted neighbor.
Using lighting as a deterrent is cost-effective and an impactful solution. In the evening if you must be away from your home, leave a light on inside your home. You may want to chose a timer to schedule a turn-on time or consider one of the numerous smart lighting options which could launch and be monitored from your phone or computer.
Adding motion detectors to outside lighting shines a bright light on potential intruders. Key locations for motion-activated lighting could include both the front and back door areas, around the garage, near any storage sheds, and around the pool.
Does your landscaping offer hiding places for an intruder? With a critical eye, walk around the outside of your home and “think like a burglar.” Look for areas where the trees and shrubs have grown to cover or block portions of windows and doors. Trim these areas back or consider replacing overgrown shrubs with smaller varieties.
Installing a home security system which includes cameras, sensors, and 24-hour monitoring may be the choice that fits your family’s needs best. Many homeowners enjoy the feeling provided by using a system such as Ring, Google Nest Cam, or ADT. There are numerous options available to match your security criteria.
When you’re thinking about installing a security system you’ll want to decide between a wired or wireless system. The differences include:
Will you take a DIY installation approach or hire a professional installer? Some providers will offer you this choice.
Evaluating your home security brings peace of mind that your home is protected whether you are out of town, at work, or asleep at night. You deserve to live in a home where you can rest easy. If you’re looking to boost your home’s security or looking to purchase a home with a system already in place, let’s talk. I’m happy to work with you to find the ideal home to meet your needs.
Since 2004 Sara Lyn Nguyen continues to bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise about buying and selling real estate around the Houston area to those she serves. Sara is a multi-year award winning REALTOR® and relocation specialist where her clients trust her to have up-to-date information on the real estate market. She has been one of Gary Greene’s Multi-Million Dollar Top Producers and was the #2 Top Producing agent in 2020 citywide. When it’s time to buy, sell, invest, or relocate speak with a trusted professional knowledgeable in the homes and neighborhoods of Fort Bend/Sugar Land and the surrounding region.
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