Everyone needs a vacation at some point, and worrying about your home should be the last thing on your mind while you’re out of town. Here are 4 ways to boost home security when you’re not around.
1. Enlist The Help Of Others
Even if you’re only gone for a short amount of time, asking someone you trust to keep an eye on your home can offer a big-time boost in security.
Hiring a house-sitter to collect your mail, mow your lawn, and make your house look lived in can be a great option for longer vacations, as physical changes to your property can tip-off burglars that you’re out of town.
For short trips, it is worthwhile to ask a neighbor to keep an eye on your home and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities. Having someone who is aware you’re not around can nip crime in the bud, as they’ll be less hesitant to call the police if they notice any unexpected guests around your home.
2. No Give-Aways!
Sharing your vacation photos on social media can be a convenient way to share your experiences with your friends, but it’s best to do so after you’ve returned home. The fact that you’re not around is information that can easily fall into the wrong hands on the web, making you a target for crime.
If you decide to change your voicemail greeting while you’re away, be careful that it does not explicitly state that you’re out of town. It’s fine to tell callers that you’re unable to accept calls for a period of time, but they do not need to know it’s because you’re a thousand miles away.
3. Leave It To The Pros
If you’re looking for a security measure that’s even more reliable than your neighbors, it may be worthwhile to install a home alarm system. Houses that lack security systems are burglarized more often than ones that have an alarm installed, making them a worthwhile investment for frequent travelers.
4. Don’t Forget Internal Threats
It’s not only outside threats that you have to consider before heading on vacation! Make sure you prep your home for your absence by unplugging any appliances (toaster, computer, TV) that are at risk of a power surge.
If you live in a cold climate and your pipes are at risk of freezing, ask someone you trust to stop by your home every few days to run the water. Make sure to show them where the water main shut-off is in case a pipe bursts while you’re away.
Interested in more neighborhood safety advice? Contact me today – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253!
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23367 W Florence Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85326
$485,061
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,753
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6618729
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Brand New Home with Beautifull Kitchen, Large Kitchen Island! 5 Bedrooms, 3 Baths, & Study. Large family room separate from living room. Walk in shower in Primary, Covered Patio with slider door. Hurry this home will go quickly!! Home can close in Octoebr/November. This is a High Performance Home with smart technology, makes it so you can truly live in your element!!!!
2725 W Bisbee Way Phoenix, AZ 85086
$485,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,432
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6700354
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Check out this beautifully remodeled home nuzzled in the highly desirable Anthem community with a lush backyard, extending views, and a builder-grade (and HOA-approved) children's playhouse! All new clean white cabinets, honed quartz countertops, matte black faucets, darling light fixtures, detailed feature walls, and fresh paint throughout. This property has been loved, cared for (maybe a little spoiled), and well-maintained by its owners since the day it was built. The kitchen is to die for and offers full functionality with a large peninsula and all new appliances while overlooking the dining area and living room. The Charm floorplan features an open-concept living space, a split floor plan, and a large primary suite comfortably fitting a king-sized bed. The primary bathroom accent flo or tile and updated tile shower with a rain shower head give the space a unique and luxurious experience. You are within walking distance of the Anthem Dog Park, stunning desert trails, and a pocket park, with a 2-minute drive to shopping and the freeway while still being nestled in a quiet residential neighborhood. This property is excited for its next family to begin their new chapter in life together! Come see 2527 W Bisbee Way - you won't want to miss out on this one!
17242 N 40th Place Phoenix, AZ 85032
New
$485,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,346
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6706344
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This charming one-story residence boasts modern comforts and convenience, making it the ideal haven for any homeowner. As you step inside, you're greeted by a seamless blend of style and functionality. The updated kitchen features sleek stainless steel appliances, elegant granite countertops, and ample cabinet space. The living area invites you to unwind and entertain in style. With its open layout and abundant natural light, this inviting space is perfect for hosting gatherings or simply relaxing with loved ones. This home offers the ultimate in convenience, with easy access to major freeways including State Route 51 and Loop 101. Whether you're commuting to work, exploring downtown Phoenix, or indulging in the vibrant culture of Scottsdale, you'll appreciate the proximity to everything the Valley has to offer. Plus, with the airport just a quick trip away, travel has never been more convenient. This home is conveniently located within five minutes of Abrazo Scottsdale Campus Hospital, ensuring quick access to top-notch medical care whenever needed. Recent updates including new interior paint, updated cabinets, renovated bathrooms, and vinyl flooring add a touch of modern elegance to this already impressive home. Don't miss your chance to make this Phoenix gem your own.
22013 W Hadley Street Buckeye, AZ 85326
$485,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,020
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6650404
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
If there is such a thing as a ''TURNKEY'' Home this would be One! Raised Panel Cherry Wood Cabinets with 3'' Rope style Crown molding. Diagonal Style Back Splash, and Kitchen Island Veneer with Black Diamond Marble Medallions. Granite Counter Tops, with an Undermounted Stainless Steel Sink. RO system for Drinking Water, soap dispenser. Side by Side Stainless Steel Refrigerator, Stainless-Steel Built-in Microwave and Dishwasher. Smooth Top Electric Stove with a Convection Oven. Plantation Shutters throughout the Entire Home with 4'' Baseboards. Front two Bedrooms Share a Jack & Jill Style Bathroom. Ceiling Fans in all bedrooms. Recessed Can Lights. Pebble Tech Type Play Pool with a Waterfall. Pavers on the back Yard Patio, that extend out into the Back Yard. Tyle & Berber Carpet. Stone Veneer in the Front of the Home. Coach Lights, Flood Lights on the East side of the home and Backyard. Keypad Garage Entry. Security door in the Front. Glass French Doors leading to the Patio. Dog Door to the backyard and patio area. Laundry Room has raised Panel Built in Cabinets. Raised Panel Doors with Lever handles throughout the Home. Master Bathroom has a Raised Vanity. Bronze Light Fixture. Custom Light Fixture in Dinning area. The back yard has Pavers extended out and under Patio and to the Pool Decking. Landscape Lighting. Pool has a color wheel. Water Fall Water Feature. Heat Pump for the Pool to keep water temperature constant. There is no solar Panels, however there is solar system to heat water for the pool but no Solar. Upper and lower set of Cabinets in the Master Bedroom Hall area. Hall Bathroom has a raised Vanity.
1022 E Mariposa Street Phoenix, AZ 85014
$485,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,720
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6692082
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
GREAT LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION in Central Phoenix. In the MADISON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT. This property has a living area and dining area, a full kitchen, with 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. There is a private finished room with separate entrance added that was used as an office. This property is 'CENTRAL PHOENIX' providing opportunity for great investment near the Biltmore, great shopping, restaurants, FWY 51 and minutes from Sky Harbor Airport. Add your own touch and upgrades and make this your home!
8423 W Dahlia Drive Peoria, AZ 85381
$485,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,674
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6656320
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautifully maintained home conveniently located minutes from the Peoria Sports Complex and Westgate! This home has it all including well-manicured landscaping, custom wrought iron security screen door, tiled walkways, vaulted ceilings, formal living/dining room, upgraded kitchen with glass tile backsplash, pendant lights, stainless steel appliances, gas range, kitchen island, an eat -in nook with a bay window! Save money on with energy efficient low E new windows and solar panels! Master bathroom features a walk-in shower, dual vanities and a separate toilet area. The backyard is truly an oasis with a sparkling pool, low maintenance landscaping (turf), shrubs and a covered patio. This home boasts pride of ownership and quality!
42869 W Mallard Road Maricopa, AZ 85138
$485,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,324
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6665749
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Meticulously cared for home in the Award Winning Active Adult Community of Province. Beautiful three full bedrooms all with walk in closets plus a den and two and a half baths. Upgrades galore with beautiful white cabinetry, granite countertops at kitchen and stainless steel appliances including a 5 burner gas range. Gorgeous tile plank floors and 10' ceilings throughout. Fabulous extended covered patio with built in BBQ, fire table and a huge backyard perfect for a pool. Additional features in this immaculate home include a 4' garage extension, walk in pantry at kitchen, built in cabinets at dining with floating shelves and additional storage at laundry room, bay window at owner's suite with beautiful tile backsplash at your vanity with dual sinks and barn door from laundry room .
4924 W Leodra Lane Laveen, AZ 85339
$485,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,033
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6684074
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
BACK ON MARLET - Buyer Could Not Perform... Look no further! This impeccably maintained residence sits on a spacious corner lot and boasts four bedrooms plus a bonus room. Step inside to discover a striking iron front door, sleek granite countertops, beautiful cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, gleaming hardwood floors, a tasteful designer color palette, and built-in surround sound both indoors and outdoors. The expansive master suite offers a generous layout, complete with an oversized soaking tub. Enjoy outdoor gatherings by the play pool in the low-maintenance yard featuring artificial turf. A bedroom with a full bathroom on the first floor adds convenience, while the HOA takes care of front yard upkeep. This home is an entertainer's dream! Plus, it comes equipped with owned solar panels, freshly painted exterior, an upgraded electric panel with EV chargers, new air conditioning units, and more. For a detailed list of upgrades, refer to the documents tab.
4925 N 73 Street Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$485,000
2
Beds
1.5
Baths
1,267
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6685653
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION ! Completely updated 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath townhome with all new flooring, remodeled kitchen, bathrooms, with all new appliances and fixtures throughout. New A/C in 2020. New hot water heater in 2023. Freshly painted in a warm white to enhance the natural light you'll receive all year long with multiple south facing windows. Tucked behind Scottsdale Rd. and Chaparral Ave., with no busy through-streets,this quiet, walkable, neighborhood is TRULY one you can't find anywhere. With no one living above or below, (a rare find in this last-of-it's-kind neighborhood) you'll enjoy privacy as well as the outdoors on your private patio just through the living room French doors. Convenient covered parking spot, included with the townhome, just a few steps from your private knowing that your property is safe and secure until your return. Additionally, this condo presents an exciting opportunity for potential vacation rental income. With its prime location and desirable amenities, it's sure to attract visitors looking to experience the vibrant culture and entertainment options that Old Town Scottsdale has to offer. Don't miss your chance to own a piece of Scottsdale paradise in this charming Old Town themed condo. Whether you're seeking a permanent residence, a vacation retreat, or an investment property, this condo offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and style in one of Arizona's most desirable neighborhoods.
16058 W Autumn Sage Drive Surprise, AZ 85374
$485,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,667
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6690801
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your rare find - the renovated Madera with extended laundry model! This stunning home sits on an oversized cul-de-sac lot, offering ample space and privacy. Step into the beautifully upgraded kitchen, complete with extra cabinets and countertop space for all your culinary adventures. With granite counters in both bathrooms and the laundry room, every detail exudes luxury and convenience. Maximizing its 1627 square feet, this home boasts a garage equipped with built-in cabinets, golf cart parking, A/C, and a ceiling fan with light for added comfort. Retreat to the oversized master bedroom, featuring plantation shutters and bay windows for a touch of elegance. Your own oasis awaits with an extended patio, added back walls, gates, lights, and a water feature for ultimate privac
11740 W Camino Vivaz -- Sun City, AZ 85373
$485,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,225
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6692192
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Not age restricted community. Close to greenbelt area. Owned solar system. Spacious 4 bedroom 2 bath all tile home walk in pantry. all appliances including washer dryer included. Large concrete patio in back yard for entertaining.
2202 W Colt Road Chandler, AZ 85224
$485,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,172
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6692786
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Gorgeous remodeled 3 bed/2 bath with a Pool, RV Parking and NO HOA. Beautiful kitchen with new cabinets, counters, appliances and window with a pass through looking over the backyard. Roof is approx 10 yrs old & AC approx 5 yrs old. Double pane windows. Stunning custom doors throughout the home & all tile flooring. New interior and exterior paint. Relax in this beautiful backyard with saltwater pool, custom outdoor kitchen and 35 ft extended covered patio. RV gate is 12 ft wide. RV parking slab is nearly 14 ft wide by 65 ft long. Custom metal storage shed 12 x 20 with rollup door. Lots of privacy for your very own desert oasis. Close to freeway access, dining and shopping.