We are entering the long, cold dark of winter; this is the time when many people begin to plan vacations. Escaping the frigid months of winter for warmer climes is fun and exciting, but you can never be too careful these days when protecting your belongings.
UBC real estate is located in a very safe area, but many still worry about being away from home for an extended period of time. Here are some tips to keep your home safe while you are on vacation.
Handle the Mail
Never let your mail pile up in your mailbox. That is a sure-fire way to alert unsavory types that nobody is home. If you will be away for more than a few days, consider calling the postal service to have your mail delivery suspended. They can hold your mail and deliver it when you get home.
If you have a friend or neighbor you trust, have them check in while you are away and grab the mail. Not only will this ensure those letters and packages do not stack up, you will have the peace of mind that comes with someone actually watching your home.
Yard Work
As the early days of spring arise, grass and weeds grow like wildfire. Consider having friends, family or a trusted landscaper handle the yard work while you are not home. Keeping your lawn neat and your garden weed-free will give the illusion that someone is at home taking care of business.
The Smart-Home Solution
Many home security companies provide options for allowing you to remotely run and monitor your property. By downloading a “smart home” app, you can link up with your security system to view cameras, turn lights and appliances on and off, generally providing the appearance that someone is around at any given time. You can also have the peace of mind that comes with being able to monitor your house, even while away.
Never Have a Key Outside
The biggest no-no you can commit while being away is to hide a key in your yard. While those rock-garden cubbyholes may seem like a great idea, thieves know how to look for them. Just remember, if you are smart enough to think of a hiding place, someone else may be smart enough to find it. If you must have a spare key that is not in your home, leave it with a trusted neighbor, friend or family member.
As you prepare to escape the doldrums of winter for a warmer climate, consider these basic tips for keeping your home safe while away. If you have any other tips or tricks for home protection while on vacation, leave a comment below!
The data relating to real estate on this website comes in part from the MLS® Reciprocity program of either the Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR), the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board (FVREB) or the Chilliwack and District Real Estate Board (CADREB). Real estate listings held by participating real estate firms are marked with the MLS® logo and detailed information about the listing includes the name of the listing agent. This representation is based in whole or part on data generated by either the GVR, the FVREB or the CADREB which assumes no responsibility for its accuracy. The materials contained on this page may not be reproduced without the express written consent of either the GVR, the FVREB or the CADREB.