According to a January 2022 Redfin report, the demand for second homes rises to 87% compared to pre-pandemic levels. With this, second homes are overtaking the demand for primary homes, which was only at 42% if compared to pre-pandemic rates. This demand for second homes is driven by low-interest rates and a desire for more space. In addition, many people are now working remotely, which has made the idea of owning a second home more appealing.
Given this, if you are one of the people who bought a second home, it is crucial to secure your investment. Here are some tips that can help you do just that:
Get Insurance
Getting insurance is one of the best ways to protect your vacation home. Make sure to get a policy covering the house’s structure and contents, such as furniture, appliances, and other valuable items. This will help protect you from burglary, fire, or other disasters.
Another critical thing to consider is getting liability insurance. This will protect you from any lawsuits that may arise if someone gets injured while on your property. Since you will most probably be away from your vacation home, it means you can’t take immediate action if something happens. Liability insurance will help you cover any legal fees and damages that may be awarded to the other party.
Install a Security System
Installing a security system is one of the best ways to protect your vacation home. A security system can deter burglars and help catch them if they break in. If you’re unsure where to start, you can try talking to a professional security consultant. They will be able to assess your specific needs and recommend the best system for your home.
There are two main types of security systems: wired and wireless. Wired systems are generally more expensive than wireless ones but are also more reliable. Wireless systems are easier to install but can be more susceptible to interference.
When you’re choosing a security system, make sure to get one that’s compatible with your home automation system. That way, you can control your lights, locks, and thermostat from your phone or tablet. You can even get alerts if someone breaks into your home while you’re away.
Another way to create a sense of security for your vacation home is to make it look like someone is always there. This means trimming the lawn, leaving lights on at night, and using timers for things like radios and TVs. If potential burglars see someone is home, they’re less likely to try to break in.
Keep your Yard Well-maintained
If you’re lucky enough to have a vacation home, keeping the yard well-maintained is essential. Not only will this make the property look nicer, but it will also help deter unwanted guests (like rodents and other pests) from taking up residence on your property.
Since it’s a vacation home, you will most probably stay there a few times a year. This means that you’ll be away most of the time, and that’s something any burglar can tell. Hence, to ensure your vacation home remains secure while you’re away, you can install a durable metal privacy fence that will be difficult to climb. They would also make it challenging for burglars to check if anyone’s home. You can also add some thorny bushes near the fence to make it even more challenging for potential intruders.
Another thing you can do to make your yard look less appealing to burglars is to install motion-sensing lights. These will automatically turn on whenever someone enters the property, making it easier for you to spot intruders. You can also add a security system that will notify you (and the authorities) if anyone breaks into your home.
Get to Know Your Neighbors
One way to help secure your vacation home is to get to know your neighbors. Introduce yourself, let them know when you’ll be in town, and ask them to keep an eye on things for you. If they know you and your family, they’re less likely to let anyone onto the property who doesn’t belong there. You can also ask them to call the police if they see anything suspicious.
While it is important to take the necessary precautions when leaving your home vacant, following these tips can help ease your mind while you’re away. By securing your vacation home in advance and being mindful of who has access to your property, you can relax and enjoy your time away knowing that your home is safe and sound.
